How far out?

[FGCdiver]

I have a 13' whaler that I use primarily for flats fishing. I know of several areas off honeymoon island that are 1-3 miles off the beach. Do you guys think I'd be fine out there on a calm day?

[TampaRealEstate]

Just take a VHF with and youll be fine! many years ago had a 15 whaler that we would regularly run 5-15 miles out, in rough seas we would just pull the plugs and go (do not think I would be that brave or stupid these days!!)

[Doc]

Im not reccomending this, but I know a guy who used to do Lauderdale/bahama crossings on small whaler on very carefully chosen days. I have also seen a 15 or 17 McKee craft (just like a whaler) out at the Mexican Pride (45 miles off) on more than one ocaision.

Dont be stupid, but if its a calm day, no storms in sight, I would not hesitate at a few miles of.

[Mariner]

My friends dad has made dozens of crossings to Bimini in 15ft Whaler....in his younger/dumber days... :D

[Man-O-War]

You will be fine few miles out.

[chronos27]

I've got a 17' Key West and I don't hesitate to go out 15-20 miles when it's 1-3' off Ponce. I don't take the boat out if it's more than 3'...depends on the wind too. Pay for Sea Tow and make sure you have a radio and gps with you.

Edit: I thought you said 15, but you said 13. As long as it's 1-2 feet, I'd probably take it at least a few miles out. Those are great boats.

[Guido4198]

Pay CLOSE attention to weather and sea conditions during the entire trip, and be prepared to scrub the dive and HEAD IN immediately if things look like they're "goin' bad". Remember....going out is optional..comnig back in, is MANDATORY.
Good Luck...

[REEL-DEDICATED]

I HAVE BEEN 20-30 MILES OUT OF HOMOSASSA AND SEEN PEOPLE OUT THERE IN 14-17FT SKIFFS AS LONG AS ITS FLAT AND YOU DONT LET A BIG THUNDERBOOMER SNEEK UP ON YOU SHOULD BE FINE.MAKE DAMN SURE YOU HAVE A VHF INCASE YOU WOULD HAVE TO CALL USCG:thumps: