The Big Leeward Loop

<p><strong>Sailing from Sint Maarten to Guadeloupe and back</strong> offers some of the most consistent and reliable weather conditions in the Caribbean, especially during the dry season from December through May. Here's an overview of the typical weather you can expect along this route:</p>

<h2>Wind Conditions</h2>

<ul>

  <li>The northeast trade winds dominate this region during the dry season (December–May), blowing from the <strong>east-northeast</strong> at speeds of <strong>15 to 25 knots</strong>.</li>

  <li>Occasionally, gusts may reach <strong>25–30 knots</strong>, particularly in channels or near island coasts.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Sea Conditions</h2>

<ul>

  <li>Atlantic swells typically produce wave heights ranging from <strong>4 to 7 feet</strong> (1.2 to 2.1 meters) in open waters, while near the islands, waves are more moderate at <strong>3 to 5 feet</strong> (0.9 to 1.5 meters).</li>

  <li>In exposed areas or deeper channels, swells can increase to <strong>6–9 feet</strong> (1.8–2.7 meters). Swells generally come from the east-northeast.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Temperature and Climate</h2>

<ul>

  <li><strong>Air Temperature:</strong> Daytime highs are around <strong>82–86°F</strong> (28–30°C) with nighttime lows of <strong>72–75°F</strong> (22–24°C).</li>

  <li><strong>Water Temperature:</strong> Warm and comfortable at approximately <strong>80–82°F</strong> (27–28°C).</li>

  <li><strong>Humidity:</strong> Moderate to high, though steady trade winds keep conditions pleasant.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Rain and Weather Patterns</h2>

<ul>

  <li>During the <strong>dry season (December–May)</strong>, rainfall is minimal and usually limited to brief, passing showers.</li>

  <li>Occasional squalls may occur, with gusts up to <strong>30–35 knots</strong>, but these events are typically short-lived.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Sailing Strategy</h2>

<ul>

  <li>Outbound from Sint Maarten to Guadeloupe, sailing is comfortable on a <strong>beam or broad reach</strong>.</li>

  <li>On the return leg, expect to sail <strong>closer to the wind</strong>, requiring some tacking or close-hauled techniques.</li>

  <li>Night sailing may provide smoother seas, though be prepared for localized gusts.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Route Planning</h2>

<ul>

  <li>Plan your course along the well-traveled direct route from Sint Maarten to Guadeloupe, where conditions are predictable during the dry season.</li>

  <li>Monitor weather updates closely and be ready to adjust your course on the return trip when wind angles shift.</li>

</ul>

<h2>Summary</h2>

<ul>

  <li><strong>Wind:</strong> Consistent ENE trade winds at 15–25 knots, with occasional stronger gusts.</li>

  <li><strong>Seas:</strong> Generally moderate (3–7 feet), with higher waves possible in exposed areas.</li>

  <li><strong>Temperature:</strong> Warm, steady air and water temperatures year-round.</li>

  <li><strong>Rain:</strong> Minimal rainfall during the dry season, with brief showers and rare squalls.</li>

  <li><strong>Sailing:</strong> Outbound passages are smooth on a beam or broad reach, while the return may require close-hauled sailing.</li>

</ul>