Elaine, I'm with you. Every time this subject comes up, I am happy that Skipper Bob endorses this route. We are leaving this June to start the loop and I intend on taking the Big Bend route. After all, the whole thing is an adventure and it is NOT a race! We are planning to take the time to smell the roses. Scott Coles MASCOT Mainship 390 (3' 8" draft)