Captain James Lowe
USCG 200 Ton Licensed Master
(727) 236-1385
A Sailboat Delivery Perspective
Sailboat deliveries can be quite different from motor vessel deliveries in several aspects:
As the sails catch the wind and propel the vessel forward, the art of sailboat deliveries comes to life. I am Captain James Lowe, an experienced sailor with a USCG license of 200-ton master, including AUX Sail endorsements. I've had the privilege of relocating numerous sailboats across various locations, encompassing both mono hull sailboats and catamarans. The world of sailboat deliveries holds its distinct charm and challenges, setting it apart from motor vessel deliveries in several significant aspects.
- Speed: Sailboat deliveries showcase intriguing disparities compared to their motor vessel counterparts.
One of the notable distinctions lies in speed. Sailboats, with their graceful presence, boast a slower cruising speed,
typically ranging between 5 to 7 knots, meaning the crew spends more time on sailboats.
- Exposure to Elements: Sailboats are uniquely exposed to the elements, including wind, waves, and all weather conditions,
due to their open design, This exposure can result in a more dynamic and potentially challenging sailing experience.
- Sail Handling: Sailboats require regular work in setting, adjusting, and trimming sails to optimize performance.
Motor vessels, on the other hand, primarily rely on engine power and do not have the same level of sail-related tasks.
- Comfort: In terms of onboard comfort, motor vessels generally offer more amenities, spaciousness, compared to sailboats.
Motor vessels often have cabins with better shelter from the elements, larger living spaces, and smoother rides due to their
hull designs and engine-powered propulsion.
To ensure a smooth sailboat delivery, we use experienced crew possessing nautical expertise and sailing skills.
As part of our comprehensive services, for new boat owners or owners of new insurance policies, we also offer insurance company check rides to ensure that you, as the captain of your boat, meet the requirements set by your sailboat insurance company.
In the world of sailboat deliveries, a unique challenge arises when the desired path runs directly against the wind. This situation demands a delicate balance between sticking to a planned schedule and making effective maneuvers. Maneuvers like tacking and gybing, which change the sailboat's course in relation to the wind, might not always be practical during these deliveries. These maneuvers can significantly increase the distance traveled and impact timely arrivals.
We offer Hands-On-Sailboat-Handling-Training to our clients, who choose to ride along for knowledge and skills to navigate their vessels confidently during and after deliveries. During sailboat deliveries, the primary objective is to cover long distances efficiently rather than adhering strictly to pure sailing principles. Sailboats typically have a cruising speed of around 6-7 knots, which is relatively slower compared to motor vessels. Therefore, maximizing the distance traveled in a day becomes essential.
However, the engine approach doesn't completely disregard the wind's potential. As sailors we maintain a state of readiness by keeping the mainsail and jib prepared for action. This means that if the wind shifts favorably, these sails can be swiftly deployed to harness its power. This strategy optimizes progress, allowing the sailboat to benefit from the wind whenever it's feasible.
In the event that we're offshore and can't stop for the night, we stand navigational watches and continue sailing to our next port. I know how to compensate for timing of bringing low-powered sailing vessels in from offshore through inlets with strong fast tidal currents.
Captain James Lowe, possess a thorough understanding of the potential obstacles that bridges and overhead power lines can pose due to their limited vertical clearance. This awareness is crucial as I take into account the height of the sailboat's mast during the process of planning routes and navigating intricate water passages such as the intracoastal and inland waterways.
My expertise goes beyond merely recognizing clearance concerns; I excel at pinpointing the precise locations of these critical passages, even when dealing with power lines that can be challenging to detect. This skill is vital as it ensures our sailboat navigates these areas with precision and ease, minimizing the risk posed by potential obstacles overhead.
In addition, I possess the capability to access essential lock schedules, a crucial aspect of our voyage. This knowledge enables me to orchestrate effective communication for the timely coordination of bridge and lock openings. This proficiency guarantees that our journey progresses seamlessly and without unnecessary delays.
Captain James Lowe's familiarity with the restrictions imposed by the vertical clearances of bridges and overhead power lines is unparalleled. This awareness extends to factoring in the height of the sailboat's mast during the meticulous process of charting routes and skillfully navigating intricate waterways such as the intracoastal and inland channels. I am well-versed in identifying the positions of bridges, obtaining access to lock schedules, and conducting efficient communication for the smooth operation of bridge and lock openings. This level of expertise enables me to ensure the safe and secure navigation of these water passages during our sailboat deliveries.
Another key consideration is the depth of the water in relation to the vessel's keel. I am mindful of this constraint when planning our routes. By factoring in the draft of the sailboat, I ensure that we navigate through waters that are deep enough to accommodate our vessel. This comprehensive approach guarantees a safe and successful voyage through these intricate waterways during our sailboat deliveries. I communicate with other boaters using VHF and gather local knowledge to navigate unfamiliar areas.
I also proactively gather information about potential shoaling in areas of concern.
Our service area is extensive, covering navigation along the Great Loop and beyond. If you're cruising anywhere along this iconic route and require assistance, we're here to help.
We also offer our assistance to numerous boaters embarking on the demanding journey of crossing Florida's Big Bend in the Gulf of Mexico. Captain James Lowe, an experienced sailor, is readily available to provide support to boaters navigating this challenging voyage between Florida's northwest and west coasts.
Navigating Florida's extensive coastline can present its own set of challenges. Captain James Lowe, being a Florida resident, is intimately acquainted with the entire 1300 miles of coastline, Including the Florida Keys, all navigable Florida inlets, and intricate intracoastal waterways. He is especially knowledgeable about the Okeechobee Waterway, a canal route that spans across Florida between Stuart on the Atlantic coast and Fort Myers on the Gulf coast. This expertise allows him to adeptly guide vessels through these waters.
On the eastern coastline of Florida, sailors often set their sights on the captivating destination of the Bahamas. However, this journey introduces another layer of complexity due to the formidable obstacle presented by the Gulf Stream current. The Gulf Stream, a strong and swift oceanic current, flows northward along the eastern seaboard of the United States, including the coast of Florida. Crossing this current requires careful planning and precise navigation, as its powerful flow can impact the course and speed of a sailboat (set and drift). Sailors embarking on the voyage to the Bahamas or back must consider weather timing and strategically plan route to effectively navigate the Gulf Stream.