How Long Does It Take to Sail Across the Atlantic?
Quick Answer
Sailing across the Atlantic typically takes 14–30 days for recreational sailors, depending on the route, boat size, and weather conditions. Racing yachts can complete the crossing in under 10 days.
Typical Duration
Quick Answer
A typical Atlantic crossing under sail takes 14–30 days, though the exact duration depends heavily on your route, vessel, crew experience, and weather. The most popular recreational route – from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean – averages 18–25 days for cruising yachts.
Crossing Times by Vessel and Route
| Vessel Type | East–West (Trade Winds) | West–East (Northern Route) |
|---|---|---|
| Cruising yacht (35–45 ft) | 18–25 days | 20–30 days |
| Performance cruiser (45–60 ft) | 14–18 days | 16–22 days |
| Racing yacht | 7–12 days | 10–15 days |
| Catamaran (40–50 ft) | 16–22 days | 18–26 days |
| Tall ship / square rigger | 25–40 days | 30–50 days |
Popular Routes
East to West (downwind, trade wind route): Most recreational sailors depart from the Canary Islands (Las Palmas) and sail roughly 2,700 nautical miles to the Caribbean (typically Barbados, Martinique, or St. Lucia). This route takes advantage of the northeast trade winds and the Canary Current, making it the faster and more comfortable option.
West to East (upwind, northern route): Sailing from the Caribbean or the US East Coast to Europe is more challenging. Sailors typically head north to pick up the prevailing westerlies, passing near or above the Azores. The distance is greater – approximately 3,000–3,500 nautical miles – and conditions can be rougher.
Factors That Affect Crossing Time
Boat speed is the most significant factor. A cruising yacht averaging 6 knots will take roughly 19 days to cover 2,700 nautical miles, while a fast racer averaging 10+ knots can do it in under 12 days.
Route and season matter enormously. The trade wind route is best sailed between November and February, when winds are most reliable. Departing outside this window increases the risk of calms or adverse weather.
Wind conditions can vary even during peak season. Periods of light wind can add 2–5 days to a crossing, while sustained 20–25-knot trade winds can shorten it considerably.
Crew experience affects decision-making, sail changes, and the willingness to push the boat in stronger conditions. Experienced crews tend to complete crossings faster and more safely.
Preparing for the Crossing
- Provision for at least 30 days of food and water, even if you expect a 20-day crossing.
- Carry a watermaker if possible, to supplement fresh water supplies.
- Service all safety equipment including life raft, EPIRB, flares, and man-overboard gear.
- Establish a watch system before departure. For a crew of four, a standard rotation is 3 hours on, 6 hours off.
- File a float plan with a trusted contact ashore and check in daily via satellite phone or SSB radio.
Organised Rallies
The ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers) is the world's largest transoceanic sailing rally, departing Las Palmas in late November each year. It provides a structured, safety-supported environment for the crossing and is an excellent option for first-time ocean sailors.
Summary
For most recreational sailors on cruising yachts, an Atlantic crossing takes 18–25 days on the popular east-to-west trade wind route. Faster boats and racing crews can shorten this to under two weeks, while slower vessels or less favourable conditions may extend the passage to 30 days or more.