I posted this on PA as well but maybe you guys can give some more help.


I'm goin on a cruise for the wife's b-day in Dec. Sailing out of Maimi and goin through the Caribian. I need some input on what I may be able to scavage from the islands for bow making. I like the guava staves nomadic pirate gets from hawaii and was wondering if they have them over there. I was also thinking about maybe some snake skins if I can find them.

My limitations: time most ports will only be at the most 8 hours, customs I was hoping if I found some small trees/staves and maybe got them debarked and roughed out I might get them past, space the cabins are apparently small.

Give me some input what you guys think.

Lastly other than books on trad archery what do you guys think I can bring aboard to do while at sea? I was going to bring a stave but the idea of a hatchet going through security and the humidity trying to tiller might be counter productive.

You are going to have trouble bringing random wood through customs I think.  Space in the cabins is VERY small... I wouldn't think it would be worth it to bring stuff to make bows while on ship.  There are other things in life.  As far as the wood... worth a try though... Where are your stops?  I hit the Caribbean last year.  Fun times!
Mike

Customs is gonna catch the wood coming in, it could potentially hold bugs.

You might want to check with customs about the snake skins and importing them.
Some species may be on the endangered, or protected list. You wouldn't want to be stopped while carrying the skins of a protected species.

Wifes b-day and only 8 hours in each port, i think time is going to be the big problem. As far as customs you might be able to ship some stuff home.

I was thinking, what about stone for flint knapping? Any ideas?

Completely forget that you shoot a bow for one week. Then you can hunt all fall with your partner's blessing. It will be worth it.

I agree with Shaun.  I live and breath bowhunting year round, but once in awhile it doesn't hurt to enjoy some of the other pleasures life has to offer.  Both of you will have more fun if you just enjoy what a cruise is meant to be.  Relax and have a great time!

I had the pleasure of meeting both you and your wife...FORGET the bow stuff for the week...she is worth it.
Have a good time and Happy Birthday to the Mrs.

I have been on many cruises and you will not be able to take anything aboard that resembles or could be used as a weapon ie: flint knapping stuff.  I have had take a very small dive knife back to the car before boarding the ship.  Take a good hunting book and soak up some rays while reading and drinking those little drinks with the umbrellas.  Have fun.

If I took bow-making stuff with me on a cruise, I would most likely be coming home by myself.      

Just forget bows and gain a few pounds before hunting season begins.