Can yachts cross the ocean? Yes, it is very feasible for yachts to sail long distances and travel across the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. However, this journey is not necessarily a simple one. There are many questions to ask and key details to organize before a yacht crosses the ocean, from the amount of fuel on board to the time of year.
What is a Yacht Crossing?
A yacht crossing occurs when a boat wishes to travel to either side of the Atlantic or the Pacific Ocean. It is common for charter yachts to spend the summer season in the Mediterranean and then cross over the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean for the winter season.
Can Yachts Cross the Ocean FAQ
How long does it take to cross the Atlantic?
It can take from 10 days to three weeks to sail across the Atlantic Ocean. Many yachts make this journey between the Mediterranean and Caribbean during the Spring and Autumn breaks in the yachting charter season.
What yachts can cross the ocean?
Many luxury mega yachts and superyachts can cross the ocean but not all vessels are equipped or built to do so. It is a distance of around 3,000 nautical miles. If the yacht does not have this range, there are other options for shipping the yacht across the ocean on a cargo boat or large container ship.
Can a superyacht cross the Pacific Ocean?
The Pacific Ocean is a larger body of water for superyachts to cross but it is possible to do so. When yachts are traveling from the US to areas such as Fiji or The Islands of Tahiti, the boats will sail across the Pacific Ocean.
Can superyachts handle rough seas?
Superyachts are designed to handle adverse weather while on a yacht crossing. However, the captain will often change the course of the vessel to avoid large storms or possible dangerously rough seas.
How big of a yacht do you need to cross the ocean?
For comfort and safety, yachts crossing the ocean should be a minimum of 30ft. This size boat allows you to travel securely across the Atlantic Ocean. When yachts cross the ocean, it’s important to have enough fuel, supplies and food for those on board, which means that the larger the boat, the better.
How far can yachts travel?
The distance a yacht can travel varies on many things, including its fuel efficiency, engine size, and power. Sailing yachts that are equipped with both sail power and motor power can often travel vast distances. Modern boats with rechargeable engine power, such as S/Y BLACK PEARL built by Oceanco can power themselves without needing to stop and refuel.
Is it legal to sail around the world?
Yes. It is legal to sail around the world and many individuals have done so. It is important to have all the boat’s documentation and certificates ready for when you sail into different ports and countries. You will also need your passport and other pertinent travel details (as if you were arriving via airplane). Sailing around the world is incredibly challenging, so only experienced sailors are encouraged to do so.
How much is fuel for a yacht to cross the ocean?
The amount of fuel for a yacht to cross the ocean depends on
- the size of the boat,
- how fast you are traveling and
- how much power you are using.
Some vessels are much more economic than others, so require less fuel. It is recommended that you take extra fuel when the yacht crosses the ocean, at least 1.5x what you anticipate you will need.
