"Passagemaker" gets my vote at the moment
"Shellback"? No, I think that applies to someone who has Crossed the Line, or at least that's what my certificate says.
The Dauntless Passage Maker
How about "Passagemaker"
I'd be fine with something other than Passage Maker, and appreciate the point about it being an overused term. I think it's the criteria for anointment that matters the most.
Actually, looking back at the thread's original title, perhaps "Ocean Crosser" says it all. It's short, sweet, and to the point.
Much like the boat size thing...is there a minimum distance offshore you must reach?
Can't you get to Asia via the Aleutians and never make an open water passage of more than 250 miles (or something like that?)
What that passage lacks in distance to land it makes up in ocean state. I used to ship out of Tacoma for Japan on a GC track that would have us cross the Aleutians twice.
Greetings,
Mr. psneeld. Parameters. Exactly. Someone who runs to Bermuda is not crossing the Atlantic BUT definitely is blue water cruising and should be eligible for some special recognition.
An affectionado of cruise ships IS out in blue water but the most they have to worry about is what time the Elvis impersonator opens in the lounge on "B" deck. Likewise someone who crews on a larger vessel that they are NOT in charge of should be considered ineligible as well.
I propose that to earn the "title" (whichever one is decided upon) one should demonstrate that they have cruised in "blue water" (let's say 100 miles offshore) for extended periods (say 5 or more days) with only their vessel and trusted crew. I further propose that sail boaters, with all due respect, not be eligible. This is a POWER boating site after all. Joshua Slocum is not a member as far as I know.
Passagemaker? Not for me, first thing I thought of was the mag. So, I'll take a shot at this:
1st designation "Deep Blue Waterman", could cover an offshore passage like to the Bahamas
Verification is another key, nothing would be worse than to have some phony poser getting the moniker.
Unless you are thinking of awarding a large cash prize, I doubt people will be lining up to fake their way in to the club.
Seriously!? A special designation for crossing to the Bahamas? Is only about 50 miles and it's done by private boats on an almost daily basis. I've done it in a 24' cuddy cabin. And many people have done it in much smaller.
It's hardly a "passage" worth a special designation.