Once you try river cruising I am sure you will discover an enjoyable 

Marty, Here are a few comments on your queries: CHARTS: Definitely get the two charts from USACE. The Lower Black Warrior River chart is better than the upper but get them both anyway. This is really all you need for navigation. Keep track of the mile markers and turn the pages as you go. Be sure to turn the pages in the correct direction. I find the Lower chart to be very confusing. GPS: Your Tom-Tom 300 will be very useful in keeping track of your location. For example, you may be at mile 123 on the river but where in Alabama are we? The GPS will relate the river to the land. TIME: I have found it very difficult to keep to a fixed schedule when cruising. Your destination at the end of four days should be flexible. Can you get a map showing all the launch ramps in Alabama? I assume you plan to pull the pontoon out at your destination. I think Orange Beach in four days is too optimistic. It is 460 miles plus six locks. Allow one hour for each lock, (but you could be delayed for three hours). May I suggest that late Sunday afternoon you pull out at the nearest la unch ramp? GAS: Definitely get a feel for gas mileage. Gas is only available at Mile 348, 216 and 119. In case of emergency you may be able to persuade a local fisherman to give you a ride to a nearby gas station. RADIO: I have cruised with handheld and fixed. The fixed antenna gives a better range for talking to the locks. With a handheld, if the lockmaster did not reply immediately, I did not know for sure if my message got through. Once you try river cruising I am sure you will discover an enjoyable pastime. My advice is take your time and don't have a fixed schedule. Alan Lloyd Great Circle Navigation Notes _www.NavigationNotes.com_ (http://www.navigationnotes.com/) Visit web site for more information. <BR><BR><BR>**************************************<BR> AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at http://www.aol.com.