Good Morning Hugh,
I’ll begin a reply, but I don’t really know where it will ultimately lead.
GS’s comments this morning [1] (1/26/16) ought to be enough to take the wind out of anyone’s sails regarding bug-it boats! Although he makes some valid points, the overall tone is so negative he’ll put folks off the idea. But if you’re not already into boating/sailboating that may be for the best. It is a learned skill set.
Some random thoughts:
- You don’t have to cross an ocean to ‘escape. There are many places much closer that would probably suffice. As mentioned previously, I would probably head for coastal British Columbia and the Inside Passage (to Alaska). There is a LOT of really remote territory up there, relatively friendly ‘folk for the most part, fresh water, game/fish aplenty. Resupply would be challenging but doable. Hunkering down in some isolated cove will be cold, but it might even include establishing comfortable base camps ashore.
- True, a boat isn’t your best fighting platform. That said, if you’re in a remote area what is the actual probability of having to fight-off the hordes? As mentioned previously, the idea of having two or three boats for mutual support could be a life saver. With a few like-minded companion boats and carefully chosen sites, defensive tactics would be much more effective, plus supplies and spare parts could be coordinated. Teamwork, teamwork, teamwork….
- Study the folks who lived in BC/SEAK centuries ago. Choose your bugout locale very carefully. The native/First Nation people remained along the water for a reason; they found that surviving (even thriving) was quite possible. They often had a summer camp AND a winter camp; learn why they did that.
- Spend the summer(s) preparing for the winter(s). There is a lot of work necessary to prepare for long winters; plan your strategy. Learn to catch/cure resources for the winter. It’ll keep you busy and be good for the soul. The good news is the summer days are long; you can even have a spectacular garden (if you have the right preps).
- Back to choosing a boat…. Find one you’re comfortable with that’s not too big and not too small, just right! Relatively small can be GOOD; it’s easier to maintain, heat, and anchor. Frankly, I wouldn’t want a fifty-footer (even if I could afford it!). They’re too ungainly, and it shout’s: “here’s money and good stuff”. Remember: simpler can be better, and less is often more. My choice would be a pilot house sailboat in the 28-32′ realm, with overly large tankage (mostly for fuel) and a good (non-inflatable) dinghy or kayak.
There are countless other items that could be mentioned, these are just some items off the top of my head. It’s interesting and makes me daydream of times gone by. – C.C.