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Jeff -

Last time I was up there with the Merc, we ran 630 miles, and I burned about 4 gallons of oil on to p of what was already in the full oil tank (if I remember correctly). I don't have an actual log of that time. I don't remember fuel either, but I remember averaging around 3 MPG, which I was happy with!

Dinner was almost always at a Marina or Inn. Of course, we stopped every night at a marina for sleep - not camping out at all except for one night that trip.

I detailed Canadian fishing licenses in an earlier post - I think it's a definite must - whether you're going for trout, salmon or pike/walleye or even bass or perch.

My plan is still to launch at DeTour - launch fee is non-existent ($20 season pass for Michigan DNR facilities) and parking is rustic there. I'm recommending that Dave Pendleton go a little more upscale there to have a deeper launch facility.

Mooring fees only apply if you tie up at a Marina overnight - figure $2 or $2.25/foot (CDN). I'll see if I can pull up some receipts from my credit card records to confirm.

As far as gear goes - I'm planning to have two anchors aboard, as well as extra lines and extra fenders that are thick enough to protect the hull sides if nestled up against a rock on shore.

I'm also bringing a tent for shore based camping and my dock-side chair (in case we decide to stay at a marina for whatever reason). Plan on the marina's charging for shower use - figure $2 CDN, and figure close to $5CDN per gallon for fuel on the water.

In a week, we can easily traverse several hundred miles in this area - depending on what you want to do or see, or where you want to go. I'm calculating close to 600 miles again, unless weather closes us in somewhere for a day - but even if it's blowing like stink, you can find a good spot to hide and still explore - and if it's raining - well....that's what canvas is for!

I'm looking forward to snorkeling in covered portage cove too.


Dave