Europe → Caribbean

The westbound crossing from Europe to the Caribbean is the busiest passage on the Atlantic. Most boats leave Europe in September or October, stop in Madeira or the Canary Islands, sometimes in Cape Verde, then cross with the trade winds.

The big jump to the Caribbean usually happens between late November and January, once the hurricane season is over. From the Canaries, expect about three weeks at sea: that's when most skippers look for crew.