[TSOJOURNER]

Can anyone tell me if it is possible to take a 27 ft sailboat down the Illinois, into the Tennesee, down the Tenn-Tom waterway, and thence to Tampa Bay?

Thanks,

Dave...

 

[TSOJOURNER]

Whoops! Forgot to mention I''m thinking about buying a Great Lakes boat and would like to spend the summer moving it to Florida rather than ship it.

Dave...

 

[TSOJOURNER]

Jack,

Thanks for your note. I figured it would be a power trip (read boring). To have a boat trucked is upwards of $3000, so I figure I could tolerate boredom for that kind of savings. My biggest concern is can I get the mast under all the obstacles along the way.

Dave...

 

[TSOJOURNER]

Hi Dave.

Not only is it possible,but it is a very enjoyable trip in itself.I just brought my privilege 39 up the TennTom to the middle Tennessee area.You will need to know your mast height off the water.I can tell you the lowest clearance from Kentucky Lake to Mobile Bay is 48Ft.Most are 52ft+.This will vary some with water level which is usually marked at each bridge.Excellent reference is Nitty Gritty by Fred Meyers.Three things to look out for are floating logs or trees (debris), tugboat activity and power cruiser wakes.Best way to learn how tug operates on river is to follow one for a while.They make 5 or 6 knots and after doing so,you will instinctively know where you can safely anchor and still be out of thier way.Have other good references not handy at moment.If interested in more ,drop me a line. Good sailing. -Gary-