GL: Fuel Price - Should we do the Loop?

[bill fiero]

Skipper Bob has it right -- fuel price is a variable from near 0 with a
canoe to tens of thousands in a mega-yacht.  But, I would suggest that
the major factor to consider for those considering a Great Circle trip is
comfort level.  One should use the smallest boat possible on which you
can be comfortable -- not the largest you think you can afford.

This is not just to save money on fuel -- the smaller the boat, the
easier the trip (once the comfort factor is considered).  Locks are
easier to maneuver, slips are simpler to enter in a cross wind or cross
current, haul outs and storage are much simpler and less expensive,
anchorages are easier to find and use since smaller boats draw less water
and can anchor where the 'big boys' fear to tread, one can traverse
stretches of shallow water on the ICW with less concern -- why, we've
jumped overboard and pushed our 22' C-Dory off a shoal and often walked
out to hand set our anchor. 

 Now, those unfamiliar with boating, think bigger is safer -- yes, in
certain conditions that may be true, but in others it definitely is not. 
The smaller the boat, the better the eye (and ear) to the weather, for
sure.  Talk with the really experienced long-distance cruisers and most
will tell you the smallest boats go farther -- and often, safer.

Our first boat for the Loop was a 20' sailboat -- all teak interior and
beautifully built.  We were heading out when bigger boats were coming
in.  We had a marvelously comfortable trip with experiences up little
coves and creeks we'll never forget.  Fuel cost?  Well, often the pumpout
cost more than the diesel for our 9 hp Yanmar, and we sailed most of the
Loop (yes -- even the ICW).

We have been living aboard most of the time for the past six years on a
22' twin-outboard cruiser -- well-built and she's taken us almost 23,000
miles in these years, around most of the Loop (our favorite passages),
down to Mexico along the Gulf ICW, and down most all the navigable rivers
in this country.  She has all the conveniences we need in life -- good
v-berth for sleeping, great stove for cooking (that converts by putting
down a lid to a heater), space for reading, eating, and enjoying life. 
Took her from Washington State to Alaska this summer (and our son and
grandson joined us for five weeks in Alaska). If you want to see more of
this lifestyle, check the website www.geocities.com/bill_fiero

We say this only for the potential Loop cruiser -- if you're thinking
about the trip, we suggest you travel on the smallest boat that is
comfortable for you -- one that suits all your needs (not wants!). 
You'll have a better trip and the costs will be according to your needs. 
We are retired teachers and if cruising is within our budget, it will be
within that of most folks.