Tampa to Galveston:outside, inside or both

[CapnTony]

I've done that trip both ways many times. Never in a boat of your size. You stay WAY offshore and all you need to watch out for is ships and offshore tugs with long tows. Once you turn north you'll hit the oil patch. Go slow at night when headed north and you should be able to avoid the unlit rigs, there aren't that many, but it only takes one. Also, don't be afraid to chit chad with the work boat captains, they are a great source of info and all wish they were in your spot. Good Luck.

[boto]

Dave, thanks for the inout, we're not likely to leave before the new year. If earlier then the plan is to hang a right and head south into the Caribs with a plan to summer in DR. If , as is most likely, we don't leave until after the new year, we plan to head up the east coast, visit friends and family before turning south in the fall.

Where in Mexico are you planning to head to?

[Panama Dave]

boto,
We will be headed to Isla Mujeres then down the coast to Belize. Nov. 1 is our scheduled departure unless I get sick of hanging arounds here before then.
Dave