Thanks Gregory, I hope that folks can see trips like this and perhaps it ignites a small flame within to step a little out of their own comfort zone towards their own adventure be it big or small. Cheers and thanks for the watching!
Balls of steel. 😂😂 there are 500 people on the forums advising to not go 60 miles to Bimini on 20 foot makos. Your going over 100 in a skiff with a cold hot pocket and enough fuel to restart the intrepid. 😂😂😂 awesome video.
I couldn't imagine doing that trip sitting on a bucket for that long - and being way out there in the dark in a skiff! I'm sure I speak for others when I say we certainly could use more of this awesome content!
So glad to have found your Chanel. The content is "FABU". I can't get enough and on the other hand miss it dearly, meaning I use to be able to do it also. Last five years rebuilt four boats, use to ocean race sailboats. Have cruised the Virgin's and Bahama's. God I miss the water, nothing like it in the world. Getting old and COPD slowing me down now but not going to quit. Watching your revamps / rebuilds is like a breath of fresh air for me Thanks means more than you will ever know to me. Nako is awesome had a friend in the Virgin Islands "Paul" learned a lot from him. Keep up the fabulous work and Filming - Waiting to here best place to get your fresh water outboards from Love it. Gods Speed, wind at your back and a good compass on your journey my friend. Rocky
I'm from McLean town grand Bahama,and we have so many hidden treasures. Thanks for sharing our beautiful island.....brice is a kool dude he knows alot of cool spots.
Fantastic place indeed, thanks for sharing this video. My wife and I have been to the Bahamas once and thought it was incredible place ....Thanks again
Hi Allan, oh what a treat that must’ve been. You’re a lucky man to not just experience this wonderful place, but to do it in that time period as well. Thank you fir sharing and I hope this brought back some wonderful memories!
Most definetly that part of the island has some of the most beautiful beach in the world, mind blowing. Gold rock beach the caves and the wooden bridge crossing the mangroves with a hiking trail before the beach was a wonderful experience
Wow man I'm blown away crossing all the way to the Bahamas from Florida on a small skiff , that was cool , great content feeling pretty good about the 70 horse Johnson I just picked up after seeing yours kick booty..
Haha! Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed the video! And right on! The older 3 cyl 70 Hp OMC’s are workhorses. And I’m pretty sure the first outboard powered boat yo cross the Atlantic was equipped w them! 🤯. Cheers on your new motor and thanks for watching!
Awesome share bro, one of the last few things left to do on my bucket list. I have a Yamaha 70 2 stroke on a 17.5 bay boat so I was hoping to figure out the gas from Ft. Pierce or Stuart and you did that for me so thank you again!!
I would like to catch a ride with someone going to Grand Bahamas. My girlfriend lives there now. I hate flying. It would be cool just to arrive at her beach and surprise her.......we have lots of local friends there and they are amazing people who have looked after her while she gets settled. I can not express how thankful I am for the people we have met there.
This is one of my favorite videos! I’m down in Fort Lauderdale, I would love to meet you one day. My friend just bought a house in Port Saint Lucie, I’m bringing my boat up there soon
I just found this channel and it's awesome. I'm from Philly and fish of AC. I only have a 16ft aluminum and I run it out to 35 miles regularly for bluefin and shark. I just picked up a fiberglass 17 that I need to do a good amount of work on but watching this makes me wonder if I can go a bit further. And sitting on a cooler for sometimes 16hrs gets brutal
Thanks so much! Sounds like you’re quite the adventurer as well buddy! Cheers on the 17 footer, should make for some awesome trips! Just make sure you bring a seat! 😜Cheers!
You should've seen what I got yesterday up here. I landed a 52lb wahoo 22 miles out. I've been blowing up since the tackle shop posted it. Thank you for the response
Haha, thank you Todd! So glad you liked the video! Truth be told there is a lot more planning/ preparation then meets the eye , combined with years of experience making this exact crossing, it’s a lot safer then most would think. Cheers!
@@diywaterworld I grew up on a boat. My dad use to run dive and fishing charters. He would tell me about running back and forth. I got a bait about that same size and I use it for freshwater. lol but I’m glad your out there doing it and showing people instead of some video game or something 😂
Thanks Matthew! I’m stoked you are enjoying the channel! It’s a pretty simple setup. I chopped down the console and just made it a seat essentisllly that stores gas tank and battery/etc. otherwise, and old beat up hull that I mounted the 70 hp Johnson on. Perfect hp for this skiff. Tops out around 35 mph. Comfy cruising in the 20-25 mph range. Perfect for exploring / diving with 3-4 people. :). Perhaps I’ll throw a video together showing more details!
Looks like an amazing trip! Thanks for sharing! That boat flies (at least appears to)! Must have done your homework on prop choice and got it dialed in! Boat handles well and I love those older 2 strokes. Don’t see a lot of the 70hp ones.
Thanks Keith! It was an amazing trip indeed! Glad you liked the video! Haha, yeah, that skiffs a ripper with the 70, I had that motor on another skiff and luckily between the props I have and some loaners, I was absolutely able to dial it in to get the most of it! 👊🏼. Those old 70’s are gems especially if you can find a clean freshwater one which was the case with this one. :) Thanks again for watching and just wait till you see what’s coming up next! Cheers!
So I’ve found your channel a watched some of your reconstruction creations 👈🏼 and just started watching some of your other vids , and after seeing them I thought wow this guy has a screw loose , now after watching you cross from the mainland to the Bahamas in that small boat you just confirmed it , does that boat have a bilge pump ? No Bimini top for shade , a hand held radio , supplies if your stranded, this was a bad idea 👈🏼😳. When do we leave 🤣👍
Haha, thank YOU for watching! Glad you enjoyed it. Here’s some inside info buddy… my next two videos are going to make this trip look like child’s play… haha. 1st one uploads before the weekend! Cheers!
Awesome. Just found your channel and have really enjoyed it. Cant say enough how nice it is seeing you fix boats to your likeing. My buddies and i are determed to get to Sweetings Cay after your vid. Cheers
@@checkthewater39 thanks so much! You just made my day, I’m stoked to have you here watching and enjoying the vids! And right on, that’ll be one awesome trip for you and your buds! Cheers!
Thanks Steve, glad you enjoyed it and thank you for the comment! Yes sir, this is by far the biggest motor I’ve had in a skiff. A bit more fuel then I’m used to as well. Haha. Great motor for sure, electric start and power trim are nice, but I’m still keen on the 15-25 Hp motors. 😎. Cheers!
Man you have balls the size of a bull to take a small boat there but that's awesome and everyone thought I was nuts for taking a bay boat to Bimini years ago
Dude awesome. New subscriber. I have a 30' contender and everytime i cross just to bimini im stressed out of my mind. And after watching you do this i wonder whats wrong with me. I wish i was more like you. I need to get go farther now and enjoy more.
Hi Raydel, thanks so much for the comment and sub! I hear you on being nervous / stressed. That’s not a bad thing at all, it keeps you on your A-game and most important , from becoming complacent. That’s when $hit happens. I follow an important rule, I let the ocean dictate my travel speed / deviations in route, and ultimately I don’t challenge her! :) Crossing the Gulf Stream on any vessel is a big deal and not to be taken lightly. Although my travels on small boats seem “on a whim” or wreckless to most, the reality is that combined experience and planning allow me to layout very safe and trouble free crossings. Weather windows, flexible departure dates, staying within safe speeds given the ocean conditions, well maintained gear , epirb , vhf w/ DSC, compass, strobes, floatation , back ups on top of backups, what to do in case of fire/ punctured hull/ ingress of water/ etc. I have training and I am equipped to deal with just about any situation. and most of all I have a very detailed float plan. I mitigate as many risks as possible by taking all these steps and it all gives me the piece of mind that I’ve set myself up for success better then 99% of people crossing. I’ve seen plenty of big boats swallowed by the Gulf Stream. All much bigger, all much “safer” in the eyes of the general public. Equipmemt failure can happen to anyone, those that think their setup is bulletproof will never be truly prepared. I went off on a bit of a tangent haha, but hopefully as you gain more experience crossing amd hopefully follow these same “steps” you’ll see how safe it truly can be. Cheers and feel free to reach out anytime!
@TrustyTrucking haha, checkout my comment above mi Hermano! Complacency is good! If you ever want some guidance on planning a crossing feel free to reach out! Cheers!
Way more expensive, but still within reason, the C-Dory 22 is the perfect upgrade. Basically the same penga hull but with a 90 and a cabin. Right now? I'm and solely in the ICU in a 12' Sun Dolphin with a 9.9 2 stroke. My next boat will be a C-Dory 22. Nice clip. Thanks.
I had a buddy of mine that refurbished an old Mako center console and made a crossing from Hillsboro for Bimini but ended up between Great Isaac and Hen and Chickens rocks (before the days of GPS) because he had stowed his toolbox in the console under the compass. Oops. Luckily he figured it out and had enough fuel. I had always wanted to do this in a small boat. I definitely would have had a PFD on and kill switch though 'cause the Gulf Stream don't play. Neat area out there. You should check out Walker's.
Thanks for sharing! Oh man, what a story and a lot to learn from it! Most folks have no idea how much deviation they have with their compasses , mounted on center consoles with all sorts of instruments/ electronics snd metal surrounding. 2-3 degrees easily turns into 10-20 miles off ! Oops! But hey, that’s a beautiful area to end up at. Some of my favorite spots are on the shoal up there. Cheers and thanks for watching/sharing!
I did the same thing with a small radio once, that I put to close to the Compass and couldn't figure out why we weren't recognizing any landmarks! (Back in the 80's before GPS was a thing)! We were heading for the middle of Gulf of Mexico when we figured it out!
Thanks so much Kevin! Glad you like it! Quick question, are you Kevin Shivbaran whom I knew many year’s ago?! 🤯. If so big blast from the past buddy! If not… great to meet you! 👊🏼
Heck yes! I love it! If you liked this video, you’ll sure like the next couple..(spoiler alert ) I make crossing from East end back to Florida in 13’ freshwater skiff 😎. Cheers!
What’s the beam on this boat? What’s your comfortable cruising speed in a calm water? So cool seeing someone do this crossing without a million dollar boat!
Hi Tony. Beam is around 6’, maybe a tad less. Length is 17’. It’s very “panga-ish” in terms of measurements and looks with a little dead rise so it rises halfway decent. I run 2 different props on the 70, a 15” prop if I’m loaded or have 2-4 people. Easily cruises in the low to mid 20’s … tops out around 30 with load. With the 17” prop numbers are a couple mph more. In lightweight form, the boat cruises an easy 25+ mph and tops out in the high 30’s. Fuel economy ranges from 3-4 gal per hr on avg. sometimes better/sometimes worse haha. That 70 likes to be fed! Thanks for the questions and thanks for watching!
These blue holes are saltwater blue holes. Connected underground to deep ocean water with very similar limestone structures like the springs up in Central Florida.
Great video! What size boat is that? I found an old mako 19 that’s stripped down to good stringers and transom and want to do a similar bare bones build to get in the Gulf on a budget
On a flat day whats that boat cruise and top out at and what size prop are you running on that setup? Thanks found your channel and watched every video in a day and loved it all
Loved it. Wish you touched on the history of the island but I will look it up. I am an Albury GGpa born in Green Turtle Cay. My Gma was friends with Sweeneys that owned pineapple farms on Elliot Key. If you ever need a partner in crime let me know. I need and want to explore the Bahamas .
Thanks so much Benjamin! Glad you enjoyed! On this trip I stayed at a friends along the way, and once in Sweetings I rented a room from Nako. He has an Air BNB in Sweetings Cay. :)
Hi Forest. Great video! I just took my 25' I/O across 2 weeks ago w/ my son and a friend. All of these videos I see about crossing over nobody stays on the boat like we did. Where did you stay? I live in Stuart also and would love to get more information on free-diving. I see there are classes in Palm Beach. Is that where you suggest?
Haha, so cool! I'd been hoping theyd share that footage! Glad you caught it, it's been funny to read some of the comments haha. Cheers and thanks for watching!
Want to see more behind the scenes footage, how to's, and connect with us? Checkout our new Facebook group "diy waterworld" here's a link! facebook.com/groups/1516383565473929
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed and I couldn’t agree more. A buddy boat is highly recommended and always my first choice for crossing. The problem I run into is I’m weather dependent which often times means I have to be ready to catch the weather window that favors a small boat crossing, and being last min , most people can’t just drop what they are going to cross. 😬. Cheers!
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed and I couldn’t agree more. A buddy boat is highly recommended and always my first choice for crossing. The problem I run into is I’m weather dependent which often times means I have to be ready to catch the weather window that favors a small boat crossing, and being last min , most people can’t just drop what they are going to cross. 😬. Cheers!
Im a year or two away, will let you know when I do it, I’m in between, 17 aquasport , 19 deep vee Aquasport, or 21 super boat , something small fun and stupid
@@fairwind3111 right on! I hope you do it one day and I’m happy to help / share details of my trips anytime. Cheers and good luck in your boat search !
Hi Hugo, cheers to you for wanting to do it in your boat. And even bigger cheers for being nervous. Honor the “Nerves “ because they are what will make you prepare properly, do your homework , learn as much as possible , and make sure that you create and promote the ideal plan. They’ll also keep you from becoming complacent which is the root of most crossings that go bad. I’m happy to help you make a plan and offer some guidance. Ironically I have been working on a very detailed video on how to plan and execute such a crossing. Keep a watch out , it’ll be finished in the next month or so. Cheers!
Be careful how much you share such beautiful places. As an older person it seems because of the internet and UA-cam nothing is a secret. I am a long distance backpacker and over the years I have found my special places are no longer special. Add to that the super rich just buy up everything, just because they can. Take care
Rules for a SAFE crossing over water that is thousands of feet deep and currents that range between ( 7 and 15 knots depending on the time of year)................... A sea worthy boat of 23 feet in length or more, minimum twin engines in excellent condition, four marine batteries, four automatic bilge pumps (correct size for your vessel) , three times the fuel, food and water that you think you might need, 600 feet of anchor line with 2 anchors . Radar / GPS / VHF/HF Radios. Automatic Locator Beacon, Magnetic Compass as backup with marine paper charts. Plus all of the Coast Guard required boat safety gear for your size boat. Also plenty of cash in case you have to hold out in the Bahamas due to weather. BEEN THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! On one trip it took us 12 hours to make the 48 mile crossing Bimini / Miami on a 23.3 Formula with twin 165 Mercruisers with a total of190 gallons of fuel on board. All due to bad weather. All three of us were very experienced captains and had made the crossing many times before................. Don't follow this guy into what could be your final voyage! or end up drifting to Nova Scotia for the weekend.
Thanks for asking Rickey, I get them from a guy local that deals with used plastic containers. they work well and hold up good. Generally you can find them on craigslist, many of the plastic drum sellers have these smaller ones. good luck!
Absolutely love this video. So a question I have can you take your own boat here or do you have to go through a service company? I know your there with your boat but I figured your probably friends with this man. And what the closest place to re fuel ⛽️? Tight lines...
i wondered who would notice 😂 You know me well buddy! I brought it as a gift for someone. My fishing rod is 6' long 5/16" stanless steel with a flopper ! 😉
Hey!! I plan on doing this almost exact trip, these blue holes are a bucket list item for me. I have a ton of questions, would it be better to ask them here or can I email you? That is, if you don't mind.
Hi Mitch, man this is so great to read! Big cheers to you for going for it! And absolutely , I’m happy to help out. You can shoot me an email at Forrest.stunts@yahoo.com cheers snd I look forward to hearing from you.
I love when people go out into the world and do things they can tell their grandchildren.
Thanks Gregory, I hope that folks can see trips like this and perhaps it ignites a small flame within to step a little out of their own comfort zone towards their own adventure be it big or small. Cheers and thanks for the watching!
That was one of the most intense crossings in a skiff i ever saw i applaud your big time
Assuming they reproduce and live that long
Balls of steel. 😂😂 there are 500 people on the forums advising to not go 60 miles to Bimini on 20 foot makos. Your going over 100 in a skiff with a cold hot pocket and enough fuel to restart the intrepid. 😂😂😂 awesome video.
😂
I couldn't imagine doing that trip sitting on a bucket for that long - and being way out there in the dark in a skiff! I'm sure I speak for others when I say we certainly could use more of this awesome content!
I love what you’re doing, I’m from the Bahamas and I always wanted to go home on my boat from Florida.
You absolute crack me up … I love that you play on what you build.
Thanks so much David! I definitely try to enjoy my builds as much as possible! Cheers!
So glad to have found your Chanel. The content is "FABU". I can't get enough and on the other hand miss it dearly, meaning I use to be able to do it also. Last five years rebuilt four boats, use to ocean race sailboats. Have cruised the Virgin's and Bahama's. God I miss the water, nothing like it in the world. Getting old and COPD slowing me down now but not going to quit. Watching your revamps / rebuilds is like a breath of fresh air for me Thanks means more than you will ever know to me. Nako is awesome had a friend in the Virgin Islands "Paul" learned a lot from him. Keep up the fabulous work and Filming - Waiting to here best place to get your fresh water outboards from Love it. Gods Speed, wind at your back and a good compass on your journey my friend. Rocky
I'm from McLean town grand Bahama,and we have so many hidden treasures. Thanks for sharing our beautiful island.....brice is a kool dude he knows alot of cool spots.
Great to meet you and so cool you live there ! I couldn’t agree more with how incredible your home is. Cheers !
Simply awesome! You motivated me to put this on my bucket list.
This just made my day James! Thanks for watching and thank you for sharing! Cheers!
Fantastic place indeed, thanks for sharing this video. My wife and I have been to the Bahamas once and thought it was incredible place ....Thanks again
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it and super cool you guys have been able to experience it for yourselves! Cheers and thanks for sharing!
I used to go to sweetings cay numerous times in the early 70's. My friends family had a house there. A truly magical place.
Hi Allan, oh what a treat that must’ve been. You’re a lucky man to not just experience this wonderful place, but to do it in that time period as well. Thank you fir sharing and I hope this brought back some wonderful memories!
Amazing trip,and watch your video in the 1st 28 second there's an eye seeing you from the sky at the right screen.
Thanks for sharing this little gem. Will be retiring next summer and been wanting to plan a snorkling trip with my sons. Looks like a great adventure!
Most definetly that part of the island has some of the most beautiful beach in the world, mind blowing. Gold rock beach the caves and the wooden bridge crossing the mangroves with a hiking trail before the beach was a wonderful experience
I Couldn’t agree more, and I can’t wait to be back to explore more! The Beach caves sound cool! Thanks for watching and commenting ! Cheers
thanks for the video, I'm following the channel from Florianópolis (Brazil)
Wow man I'm blown away crossing all the way to the Bahamas from Florida on a small skiff , that was cool , great content feeling pretty good about the 70 horse Johnson I just picked up after seeing yours kick booty..
Haha! Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed the video! And right on! The older 3 cyl 70 Hp OMC’s are workhorses. And I’m pretty sure the first outboard powered boat yo cross the Atlantic was equipped w them! 🤯. Cheers on your new motor and thanks for watching!
They run forever with 0 problems
Hey, great crossing. I once crossed on a 20' with a 200 hp. and it was a blast! North side of Grand Bahama is beautiful.
Thank you! And right on! 👊🏼. It’s a pretty awesome adventure on small boats! Cheers!
Absolutely mind blowing, what you do with such a small boat.
Kudos to you for helping my fellow dorian survivors who endured on sweetings cay. Good people there.
Thank you for watching and for these words. I couldn't agree more , such great people. Cheers
what a man! loved the video, have to binge watch the channel, just subscribed
The Bahamas is a magical place 🇧🇸
Haha, thank you Nicholas! Glad you like the content and stoked to have you follow along with the channel! Cheers
Awesome share bro, one of the last few things left to do on my bucket list. I have a Yamaha 70 2 stroke on a 17.5 bay boat so I was hoping to figure out the gas from Ft. Pierce or Stuart and you did that for me so thank you again!!
I would like to catch a ride with someone going to Grand Bahamas. My girlfriend lives there now. I hate flying. It would be cool just to arrive at her beach and surprise her.......we have lots of local friends there and they are amazing people who have looked after her while she gets settled. I can not express how thankful I am for the people we have met there.
This is one of my favorite videos! I’m down in Fort Lauderdale, I would love to meet you one day. My friend just bought a house in Port Saint Lucie, I’m bringing my boat up there soon
You're a badass, thanks for the epic content
I have a 17 foot sport craft and this video has me wanting to attempt a Bimini crossing!!!
Thank you for this video. Unbelievably beautiful. I would never have the nerve to make that trip on a skiff that small but would love to do it.
Thank you so much Lance! I'm stoked you enjoyed it! haha, well heck yeah, you should make the trip indeed, its 1000 times better in person! cheers!
That is legendary! Awesome video.
Haha, thanks Brian! Glad you enjoyed and thanks for watching! Cheers!
That's crazyyy I'd love to make that trip I almost did it on my seadoo. Glad u made it...awesome video
Haha. That sounds like a sporty ride! Crossing on a PWC! And thank you, glad you liked the video and I appreciate your comments! Cheers
Enjoyed watching. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks so much! I’m glad you enjoyed and thank YOU for the comment! Cheers!
Yeah dude. Awesome trip and video. Gonna send you some pics of a 14ft skiff “redo” project boat for my two youngest boys.
Most definitely Josh! send em! Let's do a little skiff rally soon!
I just found this channel and it's awesome. I'm from Philly and fish of AC. I only have a 16ft aluminum and I run it out to 35 miles regularly for bluefin and shark. I just picked up a fiberglass 17 that I need to do a good amount of work on but watching this makes me wonder if I can go a bit further. And sitting on a cooler for sometimes 16hrs gets brutal
Thanks so much! Sounds like you’re quite the adventurer as well buddy! Cheers on the 17 footer, should make for some awesome trips! Just make sure you bring a seat! 😜Cheers!
You should've seen what I got yesterday up here. I landed a 52lb wahoo 22 miles out. I've been blowing up since the tackle shop posted it. Thank you for the response
You’re a goofball mad respect man you cross the planes brother
Haha. Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed and thanks for watching! Cheers!
Dude! What!! I’m going next time! Awesome video. You’re a natural host. We’re gonna need a bigger boat.
😀
Oh heck yes Brandon, it's been a while! the Bahamas is calling your name buddy, lets go!
Wow!! I will give it to ya bro!! There’s no way I would do that run on that size of boat! Glad you made it and it was a beautiful run!!
Haha, thank you Todd! So glad you liked the video! Truth be told there is a lot more planning/ preparation then meets the eye , combined with years of experience making this exact crossing, it’s a lot safer then most would think. Cheers!
@@diywaterworld I grew up on a boat. My dad use to run dive and fishing charters. He would tell me about running back and forth. I got a bait about that same size and I use it for freshwater. lol but I’m glad your out there doing it and showing people instead of some video game or something 😂
I love this video. I'm from grand Bahama. Brice is one of the best 👌
Glad you like it! And big cheers, your Island 🏝 is one of my favs and couldn’t agree more on Brice!
Bro saw this video first and just got done watching all your videos. I really need to see more about that tiller aquasport. I
Thanks Matthew! I’m stoked you are enjoying the channel! It’s a pretty simple setup. I chopped down the console and just made it a seat essentisllly that stores gas tank and battery/etc. otherwise, and old beat up hull that I mounted the 70 hp Johnson on. Perfect hp for this skiff. Tops out around 35 mph. Comfy cruising in the 20-25 mph range. Perfect for exploring / diving with 3-4 people. :). Perhaps I’ll throw a video together showing more details!
what a cool trip. it looks like paradise!!
Thank you! It was a fun trip and paradise indeed! Cheers!
I thought I was insane going offshore with my 14 feet 11 inches center console, but you beat me!!! LOL....
Haha. It’s all about planning and safety measures! Cheers to you rocking the small boat! 👊🏼💪🏼
Looks like an amazing trip! Thanks for sharing! That boat flies (at least appears to)! Must have done your homework on prop choice and got it dialed in! Boat handles well and I love those older 2 strokes. Don’t see a lot of the 70hp ones.
Thanks Keith! It was an amazing trip indeed! Glad you liked the video! Haha, yeah, that skiffs a ripper with the 70, I had that motor on another skiff and luckily between the props I have and some loaners, I was absolutely able to dial it in to get the most of it! 👊🏼. Those old 70’s are gems especially if you can find a clean freshwater one which was the case with this one. :) Thanks again for watching and just wait till you see what’s coming up next! Cheers!
So I’ve found your channel a watched some of your reconstruction creations 👈🏼 and just started watching some of your other vids , and after seeing them I thought wow this guy has a screw loose , now after watching you cross from the mainland to the Bahamas in that small boat you just confirmed it , does that boat have a bilge pump ? No Bimini top for shade , a hand held radio , supplies if your stranded, this was a bad idea 👈🏼😳. When do we leave 🤣👍
Great video. Love the positive energy!!
Thanks Brandy! Glad you liked it! Cheers!
Strait up savage! Thanks for sharing.
Haha, thank YOU for watching! Glad you enjoyed it. Here’s some inside info buddy… my next two videos are going to make this trip look like child’s play… haha. 1st one uploads before the weekend! Cheers!
Awesome. Just found your channel and have really enjoyed it. Cant say enough how nice it is seeing you fix boats to your likeing. My buddies and i are determed to get to Sweetings Cay after your vid. Cheers
@@checkthewater39 thanks so much! You just made my day, I’m stoked to have you here watching and enjoying the vids! And right on, that’ll be one awesome trip for you and your buds! Cheers!
Really great video. You upped your motor size quite a bit from previous skiffs.
Thanks Steve, glad you enjoyed it and thank you for the comment! Yes sir, this is by far the biggest motor I’ve had in a skiff. A bit more fuel then I’m used to as well. Haha. Great motor for sure, electric start and power trim are nice, but I’m still keen on the 15-25 Hp motors. 😎. Cheers!
Man, you're crazy. But I love it! Keep on truckin'
Love it! Lou rode out like a champ!
Vrooom vrooom buddy! Lets go!
Man you have balls the size of a bull to take a small boat there but that's awesome and everyone thought I was nuts for taking a bay boat to Bimini years ago
If you ever get to Andros, look up the Leadon boys, they are awesome.
An Evinrude tiller 70? Wow ! Rare item.
Dude awesome. New subscriber. I have a 30' contender and everytime i cross just to bimini im stressed out of my mind. And after watching you do this i wonder whats wrong with me. I wish i was more like you. I need to get go farther now and enjoy more.
Raydel porto. I have the same 27 open contender 30” and I don’t have the courage to make the trip😂. Definitely we the cubans are overrated.
Hi Raydel, thanks so much for the comment and sub! I hear you on being nervous / stressed. That’s not a bad thing at all, it keeps you on your A-game and most important , from becoming complacent. That’s when $hit happens. I follow an important rule, I let the ocean dictate my travel speed / deviations in route, and ultimately I don’t challenge her! :) Crossing the Gulf Stream on any vessel is a big deal and not to be taken lightly.
Although my travels on small boats seem “on a whim” or wreckless to most, the reality is that combined experience and planning allow me to layout very safe and trouble free crossings. Weather windows, flexible departure dates, staying within safe speeds given the ocean conditions, well maintained gear , epirb , vhf w/ DSC, compass, strobes, floatation , back ups on top of backups, what to do in case of fire/ punctured hull/ ingress of water/ etc. I have training and I am equipped to deal with just about any situation. and most of all I have a very detailed float plan. I mitigate as many risks as possible by taking all these steps and it all gives me the piece of mind that I’ve set myself up for success better then 99% of people crossing. I’ve seen plenty of big boats swallowed by the Gulf Stream. All much bigger, all much “safer” in the eyes of the general public. Equipmemt failure can happen to anyone, those that think their setup is bulletproof will never be truly prepared.
I went off on a bit of a tangent haha, but hopefully as you gain more experience crossing amd hopefully follow these same “steps” you’ll see how safe it truly can be. Cheers and feel free to reach out anytime!
@TrustyTrucking haha, checkout my comment above mi Hermano! Complacency is good! If you ever want some guidance on planning a crossing feel free to reach out! Cheers!
Way more expensive, but still within reason, the C-Dory 22 is the perfect upgrade. Basically the same penga hull but with a 90 and a cabin.
Right now? I'm and solely in the ICU in a 12' Sun Dolphin with a 9.9 2 stroke. My next boat will be a C-Dory 22.
Nice clip. Thanks.
I couldn’t agree more! The dory 22 is a dream boat and holds so much value! And right on…. Cruising on the dolphin! Cheers and thanks for the comment!
Can’t wait couple more weeks!
Atleast we’ll be in something with better seats then a bucket LOL
Hahaha. Soon buddy! And haha, yeah, I still have a bucket imprint on my ass 😂
I had a buddy of mine that refurbished an old Mako center console and made a crossing from Hillsboro for Bimini but ended up between Great Isaac and Hen and Chickens rocks (before the days of GPS) because he had stowed his toolbox in the console under the compass.
Oops. Luckily he figured it out and had enough fuel.
I had always wanted to do this in a small boat. I definitely would have had a PFD on and kill switch though 'cause the Gulf Stream don't play. Neat area out there. You should check out Walker's.
Thanks for sharing! Oh man, what a story and a lot to learn from it! Most folks have no idea how much deviation they have with their compasses , mounted on center consoles with all sorts of instruments/ electronics snd metal surrounding. 2-3 degrees easily turns into 10-20 miles off ! Oops! But hey, that’s a beautiful area to end up at. Some of my favorite spots are on the shoal up there. Cheers and thanks for watching/sharing!
I did the same thing with a small radio once, that I put to close to the Compass and couldn't figure out why we weren't recognizing any landmarks! (Back in the 80's before GPS was a thing)! We were heading for the middle of Gulf of Mexico when we figured it out!
Keep it up awesome !!!
Thanks so much Kevin! Glad you like it! Quick question, are you Kevin Shivbaran whom I knew many year’s ago?! 🤯. If so big blast from the past buddy! If not… great to meet you! 👊🏼
I have exactly the same yellow covered basket...Haha, for pretty much all stuff I'd bring onto a boat
Now, thats an adventure.
En Argentina decimos: Hay que nacer así para saber lo que se siente" muy bueno loco!!!!
Great video! Love how you put it together
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed!
I will definitely make this trip by boat one day but in reverse from the Bahamas to Florida
Heck yes! I love it!
If you liked this video, you’ll sure like the next couple..(spoiler alert ) I make crossing from East end back to Florida in 13’ freshwater skiff 😎. Cheers!
What’s the beam on this boat?
What’s your comfortable cruising speed in a calm water?
So cool seeing someone do this crossing without a million dollar boat!
Hi Tony. Beam is around 6’, maybe a tad less. Length is 17’. It’s very “panga-ish” in terms of measurements and looks with a little dead rise so it rises halfway decent. I run 2 different props on the 70, a 15” prop if I’m loaded or have 2-4 people. Easily cruises in the low to mid 20’s … tops out around 30 with load. With the 17” prop numbers are a couple mph more. In lightweight form, the boat cruises an easy 25+ mph and tops out in the high 30’s. Fuel economy ranges from 3-4 gal per hr on avg. sometimes better/sometimes worse haha. That 70 likes to be fed! Thanks for the questions and thanks for watching!
@@diywaterworld Thank you for the reply!
I love in Central Florida. are those blue holes fresh water springs or salt water?
These blue holes are saltwater blue holes. Connected underground to deep ocean water with very similar limestone structures like the springs up in Central Florida.
Great video! What size boat is that? I found an old mako 19 that’s stripped down to good stringers and transom and want to do a similar bare bones build to get in the Gulf on a budget
On a flat day whats that boat cruise and top out at and what size prop are you running on that setup? Thanks found your channel and watched every video in a day and loved it all
Loved it. Wish you touched on the history of the island but I will look it up. I am an Albury GGpa born in Green Turtle Cay. My Gma was friends with Sweeneys that owned pineapple farms on Elliot Key. If you ever need a partner in crime let me know. I need and want to explore the Bahamas .
Hi Kieth, very cool! Thanks for watching and for sharing!
This is awesome.
Thank you Joe and cheers for watching!
this is awesome definitely something id love to do one day! your my kinda people hahaha
Well hell yes haha! Come on and join us sometime! Cheers!
this is awesome. very nice video. Im curious, Where did you sleep? are you just camping or do you have arrangements on the island?
Thanks so much Benjamin! Glad you enjoyed! On this trip I stayed at a friends along the way, and once in Sweetings I rented a room from Nako. He has an Air BNB in Sweetings Cay. :)
Hi Forest. Great video! I just took my 25' I/O across 2 weeks ago w/ my son and a friend. All of these videos I see about crossing over nobody stays on the boat like we did. Where did you stay? I live in Stuart also and would love to get more information on free-diving. I see there are classes in Palm Beach. Is that where you suggest?
Just saw pot cake on wavy boats love the vids
Haha, so cool! I'd been hoping theyd share that footage! Glad you caught it, it's been funny to read some of the comments haha. Cheers and thanks for watching!
Cool trip man. Looks like a perfect place to disconnect.. #HeavenOnEarth
Thanks so much Maurice! It truly is a world of its own! Cheers !
Also, what do you use for navigation? How do you know where you’re going?
Me 33’ contender 350s Verados. Can’t find the courage to do the cross 😊
Shooting out to Bahamas with a tiller? That is rad AF. Hey, if you got a spare motor and a radio, yer good.
Wow I get blue holes here in Australia far north we call them wonky holes
very cool Chris! Are these Wonky holes freshwater fed? Or similar to these saltwater ones which flow with the tides? I’d love to learn more, cheers!
Nice job big guy
Haha. Thanks Edmund and thank you for watching! Cheers
Want to see more behind the scenes footage, how to's, and connect with us? Checkout our new Facebook group "diy waterworld" here's a link! facebook.com/groups/1516383565473929
Bad ass
Buddy system would have been a better idea, but still friggin awesome
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed and I couldn’t agree more. A buddy boat is highly recommended and always my first choice for crossing. The problem I run into is I’m weather dependent which often times means I have to be ready to catch the weather window that favors a small boat crossing, and being last min , most people can’t just drop what they are going to cross. 😬. Cheers!
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed and I couldn’t agree more. A buddy boat is highly recommended and always my first choice for crossing. The problem I run into is I’m weather dependent which often times means I have to be ready to catch the weather window that favors a small boat crossing, and being last min , most people can’t just drop what they are going to cross. 😬. Cheers!
Im a year or two away, will let you know when I do it, I’m in between, 17 aquasport , 19 deep vee Aquasport, or 21 super boat , something small fun and stupid
@@fairwind3111 right on! I hope you do it one day and I’m happy to help / share details of my trips anytime. Cheers and good luck in your boat search !
I have a 21ft bay boat I wanna do the same crossing but I’m low key nervous to do it , do you cross often ?
Hi Hugo, cheers to you for wanting to do it in your boat. And even bigger cheers for being nervous. Honor the “Nerves “ because they are what will make you prepare properly, do your homework , learn as much as possible , and make sure that you create and promote the ideal plan. They’ll also keep you from becoming complacent which is the root of most crossings that go bad. I’m happy to help you make a plan and offer some guidance. Ironically I have been working on a very detailed video on how to plan and execute such a crossing. Keep a watch out , it’ll be finished in the next month or so. Cheers!
Great video, what camera did you use?
Hi Robert, thank you, glad you enjoyed it! In this video it was all shot with a GoPro 7 as well as some iPhone 6 footage. :) cheers!
Be careful how much you share such beautiful places. As an older person it seems because of the internet and UA-cam nothing is a secret. I am a long distance backpacker and over the years I have found my special places are no longer special. Add to that the super rich just buy up everything, just because they can. Take care
What size boat is this? Total Full Send awesome video!
Thanks so much! It’s a 17 Aquasport. Pretty sweet riding little hull. And haha, full send indeed! Glad you enjoyed!
Rules for a SAFE crossing over water that is thousands of feet deep and currents that range between ( 7 and 15 knots depending on the time of year)................... A sea worthy boat of 23 feet in length or more, minimum twin engines in excellent condition, four marine batteries, four automatic bilge pumps (correct size for your vessel) , three times the fuel, food and water that you think you might need, 600 feet of anchor line with 2 anchors . Radar / GPS / VHF/HF Radios. Automatic Locator Beacon, Magnetic Compass as backup with marine paper charts. Plus all of the Coast Guard required boat safety gear for your size boat. Also plenty of cash in case you have to hold out in the Bahamas due to weather. BEEN THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On one trip it took us 12 hours to make the 48 mile crossing Bimini / Miami on a 23.3 Formula with twin 165 Mercruisers with a total of190 gallons of fuel on board. All due to bad weather. All three of us were very experienced captains and had made the crossing many times before................. Don't follow this guy into what could be your final voyage! or end up drifting to Nova Scotia for the weekend.
Dude, if you can make it across in that boat, I feel my chances in my 22' bay boat that holds 63 gallons of gas are pretty doggone good.
Man you got some big ones lol
Lol. Not quite buddy! Haha. Although it appears to be “on a whim”, It’s way more calculated then you’d think! Thanks for watching!
Do you have navigation lights for night time? Thats very dangerous if not
Yes, I have a portable box that has lights attached with an internal battery. I can strap it down , turn it on and good to go! 👍🏼
@@diywaterworld awesome! As someone who grew up on boats it was the first thing I looked for lol. Thanks!
What is the make and year of that Hull?
Hi Richard, it’s an early 70’s Aquasport 17’ model. Cheers!
What are those jugs you are using for fuel? I need something like that.
Thanks for asking Rickey, I get them from a guy local that deals with used plastic containers. they work well and hold up good. Generally you can find them on craigslist, many of the plastic drum sellers have these smaller ones. good luck!
@@diywaterworld is it just a food grade drum or something specific?
Absolutely love this video. So a question I have can you take your own boat here or do you have to go through a service company? I know your there with your boat but I figured your probably friends with this man.
And what the closest place to re fuel ⛽️?
Tight lines...
You can absolutely take your own boat. You just have to check into customs and pay them a fee that is based on the size of the boat.
That 70 pushing that soild
Haha. Yeah buddy, it goes well with the 70! 💪🏼
Awesome vid!! Is that a fishing rod tho??? 😵😵😵
i wondered who would notice 😂 You know me well buddy! I brought it as a gift for someone. My fishing rod is 6' long 5/16" stanless steel with a flopper ! 😉
Where did you get that white barrel?
Hi Eric, there was a local consignment store in Stuart that had a bunch but they are now out of business :/
@@diywaterworld did you have to get a special plug that would let it vent? I have a 55 gallon drum, but I’m afraid of the gas vapors expanding
is that a aquasport ???
Where in Florida are you?
Hi Justin, i'm in the Stuart area.
Whats the best time to cross florida to Bahamas 🇧🇸
Is that an old aquasport?
Or a mako?
17 Aquasport
you got it! Old aquasport 17' ! cheers
you got it buddy! thank you!
What is the length of the boat
Hi there. It’s an old 17’ aqua sport. Measures around 16’ and change. 👍🏼
Hey!!
I plan on doing this almost exact trip, these blue holes are a bucket list item for me.
I have a ton of questions, would it be better to ask them here or can I email you? That is, if you don't mind.
Hi Mitch, man this is so great to read! Big cheers to you for going for it! And absolutely , I’m happy to help out. You can shoot me an email at Forrest.stunts@yahoo.com cheers snd I look forward to hearing from you.
Old Aquasport?
Hi Richard, yes, old Aquasport indeed! One of my all time favorite boats in that size range. :)
Awesome!
Thanks Buddy! Soon you’ll get to see for yourself!
I wonder the coordinates for these blue 🕳 holes
If this guy isn't already lost at sea he's gonna be at some point. 🤣
Dude that is sa awesome. How to contact you for a chat?