GL: Dinghy on ICW

[LRZeitlin at aol.com]

In a message dated 7/2/07 12:00:26 AM, Linda writes:

<< Could someone give us an evaluation of having a dingy with our boat.  We
have a 33 ft cruiser, and have wondered about the need for a dingy on board.
We are leaving FL later this month for VA.  We are doing the loop in short
hops.   >>

A dinghy is essential if you want the convenience of being able to anchor out 
and visit shoreside facilities. Also the ICW between Florida and VA has some 
large open areas, i.e. Albermarle and Pamlico bays and lower Chesapeake Bay, 
where a dinghy would be a definite safety asset. As long as you stay within the 
confines of the canalzed portion of the ICW, a dinghy is not absolutely 
essential since you could either swim to shore or be picked by by a passing boat. 
Be sure to have plenty of PFD's on board if you choose a dinghyless option.

I personally always carry a small dinghy and oars on the ICW. On a 33 ft. 
boat you have room for an 8' inflatable or a Sportyak. Usually there is no need 
for an outboard. Keep it simple.

Larry Z<BR><BR><BR>**************************************<BR> See what's free 
at http://www.aol.com.</HTML>