GL: Route Request

[Skipper Bob]

Dave,

The Inland Rivers have a controlling depth of 9'.  Thus, 8.5' should not 
normally be a problem.  The most critical time will be the river just 
below each lock and dam, when near the edge of the channel and any time 
you depart the channel for an anchorage and/or marina.  Many marinas do 
not have 9' in the marina so fuel could be a problem.

As to maintenance you may be right, however you must remember that in 
the river system his mast would be down and he would have only one means 
of propulsion.  Thus, it the engine quits he is dead in the water.  By 
following the East Coast, St Lawrence and Great Lakes he has two means 
of propulsion.  Wind and engine.  If his engine fails he can sail to the 
nearest harbor with mechanics.  I know I have had to do that too many 
times.  On the inland rivers he will have to pay for a tow.  Given the 
two options, I would still go the East Coast because of not having to 
step the mast and the fact the boat would be in its natural element.  A 
77' sailboat doesn't belong on the inland rivers and I can visualize 
many problems with his length and depth in marinas, at fuel docks, 
trying to anchor, etc.

Bob

Skipper Bob Publications
Http://SkipperBob.home.att.net