You can elect to go around Hatteras in December or January, but I think that the smart money would say go inside Norfolk to Beaufort at that time of year if your draft and mast height allows. But the way to the Bahamas from the North is to sail between the Stream and the land. You can stop if you like in places like Charlestown and Fernandina or just sail straight to Palm Beach or Ft. Lauderdale/Miami before the jump across to the Bahamas. I have done both and it depends on your mood/interests. I think you'll find that the Gulf Stream and other currents make going to the Bahamas from Beaufort by going East of the Stream a less than desirable route, but it won't kill you....we hope.