[souljour2000]

I think alot of what has been said is right on...the only thing I would really add is some words of caution about tides...both high and low. If you don't have much experience with tides then just try to gain some familiarity with them...in unfamiliar waters you stand a good chance of running aground...especially if you like to explore waterways that are out of the marked channels... don't be too alarmed if that happens...everyone in here that has sailed has run aground more times than they would care to re-visit... and anyhow...the g/f should know you are not Joshua Slocum just yet....try to avoid hard groundings like coral heads and oyster bars... aground on a sand bar is way more fun... One last bit of advice...check the NOAA.com marine weather forecasts for mariners in your area every day of the trip...this is pretty important in the winter...even in Florida...between now and December...READ as much as you can about sailing the Florida Keys..there's a million books......and have a great time!