10-30-2013, 07:32 AM
I have made the trip numerous times at speed when someone else was paying the fuel bill. At hull speed ( no rise in the bow) you can smell the roses and get great mileage. I would recommend an autopilot with a hand held remote so you can sit back and relax. There are long stretches of nothing but swamp and bugs. Also a big chart plotter that will show the magenta line and an up to date paper Chartkit book and the ICW Waterway Guide. West Marine has a great collection of books on the trip. Remember the ICW is not well maintained so prepare for shoal water and missing markers. If you need an experienced mate, I can be ready in a heartbeat. Just feed me and keep me warm. Capt. George
