Hi Scott - Good to hear of your progress and options. The waters of the Caribbean Sea are constantly influenced by a number of features which cause varying and often uncomfortable seas. Swells from far-away storms in the North, drastically changing depths within short distances, unpredictable and highly variable E-W tidal streams, again within short N-S distances, diversion of swell direction and upheaval of water in the shallow passages between islands and the Antilles Current all combine to make the Caribbean an interesting body of water. The Christmas Winds," now abating, make things even more interesting in the "dry season." That's my take. Enjoy the gentle seas at this time of year! Best, John >Perhaps someone can explain to me why the Caribbean develops such short steep chop? Is it the depth of the water, the fetch from the windward island or what? In the Pacific I don't think 10 or 15 knots of wind would yield the same bumpy ride? Perhaps these are waves that are much larger and steeper several hundred miles from here and we are simply dealing with the results of those conditions? **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001)