EP-167 – Sailing to the Bahamas in the “Shoulder Season” with Rob Sweet

In this episode, Bela welcomes back returning guest Rob Sweet for his third visit to the podcast. Rob lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – several hundred miles from the Atlantic Ocean – yet owns and sails his boat that’s based in Florida. In earlier episodes (153 and 158), Rob shared how he chose his boat and what it’s like managing a cruising life while living far from the water. Today, Rob and Bela talk about his recent extended adventure cruising the Abacos in the Bahamas.This trip was unique because Rob and his wife traveled during the summer months—a less common time for cruisers due to the start of hurricane season. Rob explains why the early summer “shoulder season” can actually be a great time to visit. Crowds are lighter, anchorages are quieter, and marinas and services are still available. He also shares how he researched historical weather patterns to better understand hurricane risk.Rob discusses preparing the boat for long-distance travel, the experience of sailing across the Gulf Stream, using mooring balls and marinas in the Bahamas, managing water, fuel, and provisioning, and why air conditioning changes everything when cruising in warm climates. Bela and Rob also talk about customs procedures, flying back and forth to the boat, and what it’s like to step directly from your sailboat onto a local ferry in the Abacos.Whether you’re dreaming of your first cruise to the Bahamas or planning to live aboard while living inland, Rob’s story is full of practical lessons—and encouragement that sailing adventures may be more achievable than you thinkConnect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected] Sailing!Bela and Mike

In this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States, Bela Musits and fellow sailor Mike Malekoff reflect on their successful voyage relocating Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont. What began as a plan in early April turned into a two-month adventure filled with challenges, discoveries, and memorable sailing experiences along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and beyond.Bela and Mike share what it was like to manage long stretches of coastal cruising, the realities of anchoring and docking after long days on the water, and how sailing often becomes less of a vacation and more of an adventure filled with problem-solving. They discuss highlights of the trip, including navigating tricky currents, enjoying beautiful anchorages, and adapting to life aboard while moving steadily north.Listeners will hear firsthand what it’s like to bring a cruising sailboat up the East Coast, through a variety of weather conditions, and ultimately into Lake Champlain. From technical sailing details to the camaraderie of life onboard, this conversation captures both the challenges and the rewards of extended cruising.Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser, an aspiring liveaboard, or simply curious about coastal sailing, this episode offers insights into route planning, boat handling, and the unique satisfaction of arriving safely at your destination after a long passage.Join Bela and Mike as they recount their journey to Burlington, celebrate the milestones along the way, and share why sailing continues to be an adventure worth taking.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected] Sailing!Bela and Mike

Join your hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman on the latest episode of the "Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of United States" podcast as they sit down with a truly remarkable guest: Erden Eruc. Erdin is an incredible individual who holds a staggering 18 Guinness World Records and is even a member of the Guinness Hall of Fame.Erden shares his extraordinary journey, including his feat as the first person to complete a solo circumnavigation of the world by human power, pedaling a bicycle on land and rowing a boat across the oceans.The conversation delves into his mental and physical preparation for his next monumental challenge: the 2026 Golden Globe Race. This legendary competition is a solo, non-stop, unassisted sailboat race around the world, replicating the original 1968 event by requiring participants to use only 1968-era technology, such as sextants and paper chartsYou can check out more info on Erden here: https://www.erdeneruc.com/Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected] Sailing!Bela and Mike

In this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States, host Bela Musits is joined once again by fellow sailor Mike Malekoff as they continue their journey aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon. Recorded live during their relocation trip from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont, this installment captures the challenges, surprises, and rewards of their leg from Whitehall, New York to Chipman Point on Lake Champlain.The episode opens with Bela and Mike reflecting on the previous day’s struggles. After pushing through the Champlain Canal locks in steady rain, they thought the hardest part was behind them. Instead, Mother Nature had other plans. Strong winds, unpredictable weather, and narrow passages tested both their seamanship and patience. As they share firsthand accounts, listeners get a true sense of what long-distance coastal and inland cruising can be like when conditions don’t go as planned.Throughout the conversation, Bela and Mike highlight the unique challenges of lock navigation, including the fatigue that sets in after a long day of line handling, motoring, and waiting for water levels to equalize. They describe the relief of finally leaving the canal system behind, only to be met by rough conditions on Lake Champlain, which demanded constant attention at the helm.The discussion also showcases the camaraderie and teamwork that develops on extended passages. From managing sail trim in shifting winds to coordinating docking maneuvers at the end of a tiring day, Bela and Mike emphasize how essential trust and clear communication are aboard a cruising sailboat. Their storytelling makes it easy for listeners to imagine themselves in the cockpit—feeling the spray, watching the clouds build, and plotting the next safe anchorage.Another highlight is their arrival at Chipman Point Marina, where they reflect on the day’s challenges and rewards. The stop marks not only progress in their voyage north but also a moment to appreciate the beauty of the Champlain Valley. Surrounded by rolling hills and calm waters, the marina provided the perfect respite after a long push. Bela and Mike talk about the satisfaction of tying up securely, enjoying a warm meal, and planning for the final leg toward Burlington.For sailors, cruisers, and boating enthusiasts, this episode offers both practical takeaways and relatable experiences. It covers topics like:Cruising the Champlain Canal and transitioning from river to lake sailing.Handling locks in rain and variable weather.Strategies for staying safe and efficient during long days underway.The importance of seamanship, patience, and preparation on extended passages.The beauty and challenges of sailing Lake Champlain, one of the premier cruising grounds in the Northeast.Listeners who are planning a trip through the Champlain Canal, considering cruising Lake Champlain, or simply dreaming about sailing the East Coast will find this episode informative and inspiring. Bela and Mike’s journey is a reminder that sailing is as much about adapting to unexpected conditions as it is about enjoying fair winds and calm seas.Join Bela and Mike on this leg from Whitehall to Chipman Point and experience the mix of endurance, humor, and joy that comes with cruising America’s inland and coastal waterways.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected] Sailing!Bela and Mike

Join host Bela Musits and fellow sailor Mike Malekoff aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon as they continue their incredible voyage up the East Coast of the United States, relocating the boat from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont. This episode captures their journey from Schuyler Yacht Basin to Whitehall, New York, a leg that highlights the beauty, challenges, and joy of extended cruising.Bela and Mike start the episode with a lighthearted story about waking up to wet feet after an overnight rainstorm revealed a small leak in the forward cabin. The two sailors reflect on the realities of life aboard, including quirky boat design features like the windlass placement, which—unfortunately—channels drips right into the berth. Their good humor underscores a theme that runs throughout the voyage: the ability to laugh at inconveniences and embrace the unpredictability of cruising.As they recount the day’s sail, Bela and Mike describe the serene conditions the Champlain Canal. They note the unique blend of rural scenery, historic towns, and quiet stretches of water that make this region a hidden gem for sailors. From the tree-lined banks to the glimpses of wildlife, the passage feels more like a river journey than an open-water crossing, offering a peaceful contrast to earlier, more challenging legs of the trip.Listeners will enjoy the duo’s storytelling as they detail the sequence of locks they navigated, the friendly conversations with lockmasters, and the careful boat handling required in narrow channels. For sailors planning a similar voyage, Bela and Mike share practical observations on timing, line handling, and communication—essentials for smooth transits through canal systems.Beyond the technical aspects, this episode captures the camaraderie that develops over weeks at sea. With more than three weeks aboard at this point, Bela and Mike reflect on the rhythms of cruising life: anchoring, marina stops, cooking aboard, and evenings spent recounting the day’s adventures. Their partnership and shared enthusiasm for sailing shine through, giving listeners a window into the rewarding blend of challenge and relaxation that long-distance cruising offers.The conversation also touches on the natural beauty of upstate New York, the anticipation of reaching Whitehall, and the excitement of approaching the northern end of their journey. As they near Lake Champlain, both sailors express appreciation for how diverse the East Coast cruising grounds are—from the tidal waters of Georgia and the ICW to the freshwaters of Vermont.Whether you’re an experienced sailor, a cruiser planning your own East Coast voyage, or simply someone who enjoys stories from the water, this episode offers both practical insights and entertaining anecdotes. Bela and Mike balance seamanship with humor, making their reflections relatable and engaging for anyone drawn to the cruising lifestyle.Keywords for discovery: sailing podcast, cruising East Coast, Champlain Canal, Schuyler Yacht Basin, Whitehall NY sailing, Lake Champlain sailing, Hunter 44 Deck Salon, long-distance cruising, sailing life stories, liveaboard sailing.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected] Sailing!Bela and Mike

In this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States, host Bela Musits takes a break from his ongoing trip recap with Mike Malekoff to welcome a special guest: Bob Lattanzio. While recent episodes have chronicled Bela and Mike’s relocation of a Hunter 44 Deck Salon from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont, this conversation shifts focus back to the podcast’s interview format, bringing in fresh insights from another experienced sailor.Bob shares his background, his sailing experiences, and the many lessons he has learned on the water. Together, Bela and Bob dive into what makes sailing such a unique pursuit: the combination of technical skill, patience, problem-solving, and the deep connection to nature that comes with time aboard. For Bob, sailing has been not just a pastime but a way of life that shapes how he sees the world and approaches challenges.Listeners will appreciate the blend of storytelling and practical advice that emerges during the conversation. Bob and Bela talk through memorable experiences, from the highs of perfect sailing days to the lows of unexpected repairs and weather challenges. They reflect on the adaptability every sailor must develop, whether cruising long distances on the East Coast or handling the day-to-day realities of maintaining a boat.The conversation also touches on the community aspect of sailing. Bob explains how friendships formed on the water can be some of the strongest and most enduring. Bob discusses his involvement with the Baldwin Yacht Club and how joining a yacht club can enhance your enjoyment on the water.  Key Topics Covered in This Episode:Reflections on a lifetime of sailing experiences.The challenges and rewards of cruising on the East Coast.How adaptability and problem-solving define the sailor’s mindset.The importance of preparation, seamanship, and safety.Stories of memorable days on the water—both good and bad.The unique friendships and community bonds formed through sailing.What keeps sailors like Bob returning to the water year after year.For anyone passionate about sailing, whether you’re just starting out or have logged thousands of nautical miles, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Bob’s perspective enriches the ongoing themes of the podcast while standing on its own as a valuable conversation about cruising, connection, and the enduring allure of life under sail.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected] Sailing!Bela and Mike

In this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States, host Bela Musits continues his journey with fellow sailor Mike Malekoff aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon. Recorded during their relocation trip from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont, this installment covers their passage from Hop-O-Nose Marina in Catskill, New York, to Schuyler Yacht Basin on the Hudson River.Bela begins by returning to the boat after two weeks away, delayed both by a family wedding and a lock closure that left them waiting in Catskill. During that time, Mike held down the fort, provisioning the boat and calling daily for updates on when the locks would reopen. Their reunion kicks off with stories of patience, planning, and keeping a cruising sailboat ready for the next leg of the voyage.With the locks finally open, Bela and Mike prepare to head north. Along the way, they share the practical realities of traveling the Hudson River by sailboat, where timing, tides, and locks all play a role. They discuss their departure from Hop-O-Nose, navigating under bridges, and the shifting challenges that come with moving inland toward Lake Champlain.As the Hunter 44 Deck Salon makes her way upriver, the sailors reflect on both the beauty and the logistics of this leg. They talk about the differences between coastal passages and inland waterways—contrasting offshore freedom with the precise planning needed to transit locks, deal with low bridges, and coordinate with marinas like Schuyler Yacht Basin.The episode also highlights the camaraderie and humor that come with long-distance cruising. Bela and Mike joke about the quirks of waiting in Catskill, provisioning a boat for weeks at a time, and managing life aboard when plans change unexpectedly. For listeners curious about the real-world experience of cruising up the Hudson River, their stories bring the journey to life.This conversation isn’t just about travel; it’s about the mindset of sailors tackling an extended relocation voyage. From patience during delays to the satisfaction of finally getting underway again, Bela and Mike’s discussion captures the ebb and flow of cruising life. Listeners will hear what it’s like to adapt plans, keep a boat shipshape during downtime, and re-energize when the next opportunity to sail arrives.Key Topics Covered in This Episode:Returning to the boat after delays and a two-week pause.The impact of lock closures on cruising schedules.Provisioning and maintaining a Hunter 44 Deck Salon during extended waits.Departing Hop-O-Nose Marina and heading north on the Hudson River.Strategies for handling locks, bridges, and tides on inland waterways.The transition from offshore passages to river cruising.Reflections on flexibility, patience, and the humor of sailing life.For sailors planning a similar journey—from Catskill to Schuyler Yacht Basin, and eventually into the Champlain Canal—this episode provides both inspiration and practical insights. It showcases the mix of preparation, problem-solving, and good humor required for cruising the East Coast.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected]

There was a sound issues with the original, it has now been fixed.In this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States, host Bela Musits continues his sailing journey with fellow sailor and boat owner Mike Malekoff aboard Mike’s Hunter 44 Deck Salon. Recorded during their trip from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont, this conversation captures the unique challenges and experiences of sailing the Hudson River and preparing for entry into Lake Champlain.Their stop at Hop-O-Nose Marina in Catskill, New York sets the stage for one of the most important milestones of the voyage—taking down the mast. While Bela jokingly describes the marina as “modern, clean, spit-and-span” with a healthy dose of sarcasm, the real reason for the stop is all business. The marina is known for its crane services, making it one of the few places along the Hudson where cruisers can safely unstep a mast before entering the Erie or Champlain Canal.Mike explains why this is necessary: the bridge clearances to Lake Champlain are very restricted at 17 feet. This leaves sailors and many power boaters no choice but to take the mast down or lower their “air draft”. Bela and Mike talk through this process, sharing insights about preparation, marina logistics, and the sometimes nerve-wracking reality of lowering such a large spar from a cruising sailboat.Listeners get a firsthand account of what it’s like to deal with this challenge—how boaters coordinate with marina staff, handle rigging, and secure the mast for safe travel. For those planning their own journeys up the Hudson River or through the Champlain or Erie Canal system, this episode provides valuable perspective and practical tips.Beyond the technical side, Bela and Mike reflect on the journey itself. Sailing from Georgia all the way north has already provided them with countless stories, but entering Catskill represents a turning point. It’s a reminder that cruising isn’t just about open-water sailing; it’s also about adapting to inland waterways, marinas, and infrastructure. The camaraderie between sailors, the quirks of small-town stops, and the satisfaction of tackling each obstacle together all shine through in this conversation.For sailing enthusiasts, especially those curious about the Hudson River, Catskill marinas, mast stepping and unstepping, or cruising toward Lake Champlain, this episode is a must-listen. Bela and Mike’s humor and storytelling make the technical aspects approachable, while their real-world experiences highlight the rewards and challenges of long-distance cruising on the East Coast.Whether you’re planning your own trip up the Hudson, dreaming of exploring Lake Champlain by sailboat, or just love hearing about the realities of life aboard a Hunter 44 Deck Salon, you’ll find both inspiration and practical knowledge here.Key Topics Covered in This Episode:Why sailors must take down their mast before entering the Champlain Canal.The role of Hop-O-Nose Marina in Catskill, NY, for mast services.Insights into bridge clearances and challenges of inland waterways.Tips for preparing your sailboat and working with marina crews.Reflections on the journey from Georgia to Vermont aboard a Hunter 44.Humor, camaraderie, and lessons learned along the Hudson River.Join Bela and Mike as they share another chapter in their adventure sailing and cruising the East Coast. Their blend of technical insight, storytelling, and humor makes this episode not just informative but thoroughly entertaining.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected] Sailing!Bela and Mike

In this episode of Sailing the East Coast with Bela and Mike, co-hosts Bela Musits and Mike Malekoff share the behind-the-scenes reality of cruising life during their stop at Hop-O-Nose Marina in Catskill, New York. While many imagine sailing as endless blue water and perfect winds, the truth is that downtime, maintenance, and unexpected delays are just as much a part of the journey. This candid conversation captures the balance of adventure and patience required when traveling by sailboat.Bela and Mike are sailing aboard a Hunter 44 Deck Salon, making their way North on the Hudson River as part of a longer voyage from Brunswick GA to Burlington VT. In this episode, they reflect on their “down day” at Hop-O-Nose, a marina well-known to cruisers as a staging point for stepping and unstepping masts before transiting the Erie Canal or continuing south toward the Intracoastal Waterway.The day unfolds differently than planned. Instead of logging nautical miles, the crew spends time at the dock—handling small projects, enjoying the marina atmosphere, and preparing for the next leg of their trip. Bela and Mike discuss the realities of cruising life, where flexibility is key. Weather, equipment, or marina schedules can change the best-laid plans, and experienced sailors learn to take those pauses in stride.They highlight the community aspect of sailing stops like Hop-O-Nose, where boaters heading in different directions cross paths, trade stories, and offer advice. For Bela and Mike, this downtime becomes an opportunity to meet fellow sailors, learn from others’ experiences, and appreciate the rhythms of the cruising lifestyle.Bela and Mike share how a “down day” can actually be one of the most important parts of a voyage. It’s a chance to:Check equipment and sails to ensure everything is in good order before the next offshore or river passage.Rest and recharge, both physically and mentally, before the next demanding stretch of sailing.Reflect on the journey so far, taking in the unique character of each port along the way.The conversation also touches on how seasoned sailors approach expectations differently than newcomers. Instead of focusing solely on the destination, they embrace the process—the weather delays, the maintenance, and the unexpected layovers—as part of the adventure.The Hunter 44 Deck Salon proves to be a capable and comfortable cruising vessel, but like any boat, it requires care and attention. The downtime at Hop gives Bela and Mike the chance to double-check systems and make sure they’re ready for what’s ahead.This episode offers listeners a grounded perspective on what it really means to cruise by sailboat:Not every day is about miles sailed—sometimes progress looks like rest, repairs, and reflection.Community and camaraderie among sailors are just as rewarding as the destinations themselves.Flexibility and patience are essential skills for anyone cruising the coast or tackling longer passages.For sailors planning their own trips along the Hudson River or down the East Coast, Bela and Mike’s conversation is both relatable and informative. Whether you’re curious about life aboard a cruising sailboat, interested in the logistics of marina stops, or simply love stories of life on the water, this episode delivers authentic insights into the cruising lifestyle.Keywords for SEO: sailing podcast, Hudson River sailing, Hop-O-Nose Marina, Hunter 44 Deck Salon, Catskill NY sailing, cruising lifestyle, East Coast sailing, liveaboard sailors, Intracoastal Waterway journey, sailboat downtime, marina life, sailing stories.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected] Sailing!Bela and MikeLife at Hop-O-Nose MarinaSailing Lessons from DowntimeKey Takeaways for Cruisers and Sailing Enthusiasts

In this episode of Sailing the East Podcast, host Bela Musits continues his engaging conversation with Robert Sweet, a passionate sailor, who lives in Pittsburgh and keeps his boat in the Bahamas.In this installment, Bela and Bob explore:Life on the water – Bob shares stories from his experiences of sailing in the Bahamas.  He reflects on what makes the journey rewarding, from the people you meet in marinas to the ever–changing landscapes of the islands.Long Distance Cruising - When you live in Pittsburgh but your boat is hundred of miles away.  How do you plan your trips?  Getting to the boat. Lessons for boaters – From navigation and seamanship to understanding weather and safety, Bob discusses what every sailor and powerboater should keep in mind before taking on longer passages.Owning and maintaining a boat – Bela and Bob talk about the realities of boat ownership, the costs and responsibilities involved, and why preparation is key to enjoying time on the water without unnecessary stress.Community and connection – Whether it’s cruising with friends, joining yacht clubs, or meeting fellow loopers along the way, Bob emphasizes that boating is not only about the voyage but also the shared stories and friendships built along the way.Throughout the conversation, Bela guides listeners to think about the parallels between cruising and life itself — patience, problem–solving, and finding joy in the journey rather than just the destination.For sailors and powerboaters alike, this episode provides inspiration and practical takeaways. Keywords for sailors searching Spotify:  Sailing podcast, boating adventures, cruising America’s waterways, Robert Sweet, Bela Musits, liveaboard life, boat maintenance,  boating safety, navigation tips.🔗 Stay connected:Listen to Part 1 of Bela’s conversation with Robert Sweet for the background story and earlier insights.Follow Sailing the East Podcast for weekly episodes on sailing, cruising, boat ownership, and interviews with sailors, authors, and adventurers.Connect With Us:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected] Sailing!Bela and Mike