I'm hoping to cast off in early Fall from Lake Michigan - Illinois River to Mobile Bay and up East coast of Florida. Probably won't go farther North of Melbourne until the following year. Will be on a sail boat with the stick on deck for most of the down river ride. Looking around for charts-cruising guides it seems that there are many decisions to be made. What would you consider to be the "must haves"? Like most of us, I'm in worse shape financially than planned on so less would be better. I am a single-hander so safety is a top priority as well. Appreciate your input. Everett Hopkins