Hi AGLCA, We are new members, Great Lake sailors, and have completed the east coast part of the great circle trip several years ago. Now we are getting ready for an October first departure from Lake Michigan. We have all the charts for our trip from Chicago to Mobile. I am writing for information from the sail boat point of view. Mariposa 42, our faithful sailing vessel will have a powerboat configuration above the water when we step or ship her mast. But we are still concerned about the depth. She draws 5 feet 6 inches. We would appreciate any information based on current experience. Please feel free to respond to any of these questions from this following list. We have read the archives but most are dated 2007. Maybe we are in the wrong web page areas? Any thoughts or first hand information about shipping the mast by truck? Where is the best place to step the mast in the Chicago area? Where is the best place to step the mast in the Mobile area? It seems that anchorage information is very scarce, is that because most people use marinas? Beyond Quimby's what cruising guide did you find most helpful for the Chicago to Mobile part of the trip? Is there a cruising net for VHF? How about single side band? What wireless net carrier gets the most reception? Has anyone had problems with diesel fuel? Again thanks for any current facts that are shared. S/V Mariposa John Shaul and Shirley Jetter **************Psssst...Have you heard the news? There's a new fashion blog, plus the latest fall trends and hair styles at StyleList.com. (http://www.stylelist.com/trends?ncid=aolsty00050000000014)