Sailing Routes
Sailing enthusiasts know the importance of choosing sailing routes correctly as well as they are aware of the factors that influence such choices. Presently, there are all sorts of guides with hundreds of sailing routes available for cruisers, and they include comprehensive data on weather specificity both locally and regionally, water currents and winds. Moreover, people who'd like to create their own individual sailing routes are advised into making the best of decisions.
Racers now rely on very advanced technologies that help them determine the best sailing routes between two points by means of a software. When we are talking about racing, the best route is usually the shortest, the one that takes minimum time to complete. The software that creates the sailing routes is actually a deterministic program that sets the best course according to the weather forecast. However, when we are talking about very extensive sailing races with vast ocean areas to cover, the route could take months to complete.
The planning of the sailing routes is a very dynamic and complex process that begins before the start of the voyage as such. The route could be constantly under change according to the direction of the wind, the water currents, the weather and the geographical specificity of the area you are about to cross. A North Atlantic route for instance will surely need an evaluation of the ice presence in certain areas. Sailing routes thus require one's attention for avoiding wind-against-current situations.
The cruise and boat gear have to be prepared according to the complexity of the sailing routes one aims at. Maps, special location hardware, radios and satellite equipment become must-have items on any modern ship designed for cruising. If you are not an experienced sailor, it is preferable that you set course along a coastline and only get on the sailing routes you feel comfortable with. Sometimes, the deck equipment is not enough to help one make a decision, and then the sailor's experience comes into play.
Learn as much as you can about the weather specificity for the sea or ocean area you are about to cross, particularly during a certain period of the year. This should help you choose those sailing routes that allow you to feel most comfortable and safe on board. If it be necessary, postpone your departure with a day or even a week, until you have the green light for weather, wind and water currents. Good luck!