IanR said..
Here's an idea why don't you sail to the USA and live there for a while. May that may give you a better understand of what it's like.
Solo sailing from Australia to America is a significant undertaking, requiring careful planning, preparation, and experience. Here's a general overview of the best route and timing:
Route Overview
The most common route for sailing from Australia to America is the "Coconut Milk Run" or the "Pacific Puddle Jump." This route takes you northwest from Australia, crossing the Pacific Ocean, and passing through the tropics.
*Leg 1: Australia to Indonesia (October-November)*
1. *Departure*: Leave Australia from ports like Darwin, Cairns, or Brisbane, depending on your preferences and the time of year.
2. *Route*: Sail northwest through the Arafura Sea and into the Indonesian archipelago.
3. *Distance*: Approximately 1,500-2,000 nautical miles (2,778-3,704 km).
4. *Weather*: Take advantage of the northwest monsoon winds and calm seas.
*Leg 2: Indonesia to Philippines (December-January)*
1. *Route*: Continue northwest through the Indonesian islands and into the Sulu Sea.
2. *Distance*: Approximately 1,000-1,500 nautical miles (1,852-2,778 km).
3. *Weather*: Enjoy the northeast monsoon winds and relatively calm seas.
*Leg 3: Philippines to Guam or the Mariana Islands (February-March)*
1. *Route*: Sail north through the Philippine Sea and into the western Pacific.
2. *Distance*: Approximately 800-1,200 nautical miles (1,481-2,224 km).
3. *Weather*: Take advantage of the northeast trade winds and moderate seas.
*Leg 4: Guam or the Mariana Islands to Hawaii (April-May)*
1. *Route*: Sail northeast across the Pacific, passing through the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).
2. *Distance*: Approximately 3,000-4,000 nautical miles (5,556-7,408 km).
3. *Weather*: Be prepared for variable winds, squalls, and potential cyclones.
*Leg 5: Hawaii to the West Coast of North America (June-July)*
1. *Route*: Sail northeast, taking advantage of the Pacific High and the California Current.
2. *Distance*: Approximately 2,300-3,000 nautical miles (4,260-5,556 km).
3. *Weather*: Enjoy the consistent trade winds and moderate seas.
Important Considerations
1. *Experience*: Solo sailing across oceans requires significant experience and skills.
2. *Boat preparation*: Ensure your vessel is seaworthy, well-maintained, and equipped for long-distance sailing.
3. *Safety equipment*: Carry essential safety gear, including a life raft, EPIRB, and emergency communication devices
4. *Provisioning*: Plan and provision for food, water, and fuel for each leg.
5. *Weather forecasting*: Stay up-to-date with weather forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions.
6. *Visas and regulations*: Research and comply with visa requirements, customs regulations, and port restrictions.
7. *Health and medical*: Consider your physical and mental health, and have a plan for medical emergencies.
This is a general outline, and your specific route and timing may vary depending on your preferences, experience, and the weather. Always prioritize safety and be prepared for the challenges of solo ocean sailing.
Estimating the cost of solo sailing from Australia to America can vary greatly depending on factors like boat size, type, and condition, as well as personal spending habits. Here's a rough breakdown of expenses:
Boat-Related Costs
1. *Boat purchase or charter*: $20,000-$200,000 (depending on the size and type of boat)
2. *Maintenance and repairs*: $5,000-$10,000 (annually)
3. *Upgrades and modifications*: $5,000-$10,000 (depending on the scope of work)
4. *Insurance*: $2,000-$5,000 (annually)
Provisioning and Supplies
1. *Food and cooking supplies*: $5,000-$10,000 (for the entire trip)
2. *Water and fuel*: $2,000-$5,000 (depending on the boat's size and efficiency)
3. *Safety equipment and emergency supplies*: $1,000-$3,000
4. *Communication and navigation tools*: $1,000-$3,000
Port and Marina Fees
1. *Dockage and mooring fees*: $5,000-$10,000 (for the entire trip)
2. *Clearance and customs fees*: $1,000-$3,000
3. *Provisioning and supply costs in ports*: $2,000-$5,000
Personal and Miscellaneous Expenses
1. *Visas and travel documents*: $1,000-$3,000
2. *Health and medical expenses*: $2,000-$5,000
3. *Entertainment and leisure activities*: $5,000-$10,000
4. *Contingency fund*: $10,000-$20,000
Total Estimated Cost
- *Conservative estimate*: $50,000-$100,000
- *Moderate estimate*: $100,000-$200,000
- *Liberal estimate*: $200,000-$500,000
Keep in mind that these estimates can vary greatly depending on your specific circumstances. It's essential to create a personalized budget and plan carefully to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip.
Here's an updated breakdown with the added procedure:
USA
1. _Emergency Room Visit_: $1,000-$3,000
2. _Surgery to Remove Boot from Rectum_: $15,000-$40,000
3. _Hospital Stay (average 3-5 days)_: $10,000-$20,000 per day
4. _Anesthesia, Medications, and Supplies_: $2,000-$5,000
5. _Total Estimated Cost_: $48,000-$123,000
Australia
1. _Emergency Department Visit_: $0-$500 (free or low-cost under Australia's public healthcare system, Medicare)
2. _Surgery to Remove Boot from Rectum_: $0-$5,000 (covered under Medicare or private health insurance)
3. _Hospital Stay (average 3-5 days)_: $0-$1,000 per day (covered under Medicare or private health insurance)
4. _Anesthesia, Medications, and Supplies_: $0-$1,000 (covered under Medicare or private health insurance)
5. _Total Estimated Cost_: $0-$12,500
Please note that these estimates are still rough and may vary depending on specific circumstances.