Morning Tom, After doing part of the loop backwards twice I feel I can answer your question. The last 2 springs we have wintered on the west coast of FL and then headed back up the coast to Mobile and points north on the Tenn-Tom, Tennessee, and Cumberland Rivers. In 2006 we headed up the Tenn-Tom in June and last year we headed up the Tenn-Tom in mid May. Both times we had a great crossing and normal river conditions. We did have to wait out about a week of wind in Crystal River last year before we made the crossing to Apalachicola. You won't have to worry about going against any current while you are in salt water but the rivers could be a very different story. We just got back from going on a cruise ship with the owner of the Demopolis Yacht Basin and he (Fred) told us that currently the Tenn-Tom is 6' above normal and there is lots of debris in the water. The Demopolis Yacht Basin is located 215 miles above Mobile, about 1/2 way to the Tennessee River. My suggestion would be to call the Yacht Basin (334-289-4374) when you are few days out of Mobile and find out the river level before you head up. Also note that all it takes is a hard rain to really cause the Tenn-Tom to rise quickly, then you will have big current and a ton of debris in that river. There are a number of good anchorages to ride out the high water if you get caught. We REALLY LOVE the trip from Mobile to the Tennessee, it's beautiful, remote, and you will meet the nicest folks along the way. Just be sure and not cut the corners when you are on the river, it's a sure bet you will bend a prop if you do.......many, many snags outside the channel! This year we will be cruising the Bahamas & East Coast so we will miss our time on the rivers. When you get to Demopolis tell the gang that Lifes2Short sends their best. If you need more info don't hesitate to ask, you can also find more info on our blog, address is listed below. Have a great cruise! Brenda & Todd Lanning M/V Life's2Short 40' Oceania btlifes2short@aol.com Check out our blog @ _http://btlifes2short.blogspot.com_ (http://btlifes2short.blogspot.com) Leaving St Pete today and headed south! **************Ideas to please picky eaters. Watch video on AOL Living. (http://living.aol.com/video/how-to-please-your-picky-eater/rachel-campos-duffy/ 2050827?NCID=aolcmp00300000002598)