Prairie 29 - Traveling
I am located on the Gulf coast due east of St. Petersburg, FL. I have had my Prairie 29, Impulse, for just over three years. This country that I have loved so much and for so long has just about worn me out. I am 75 and I grow more weary each day. I think I might have one more big trip in me.
I believe that I might like to go toward Belize and the Rio Dulce in Guatemala, where I would just sit and read and rest and stay until my time is up. I would need to sell some property and clean up estate paperwork but I do believe that I could do all that before the end of this year.
My question is how best to get down there, an estimated distance of just under 1,000 miles with the usual zigs and zags. I have spent much time in Caribbean Mexico and do not really want to repeat that. But Belize and Guatemala hold much fascination for me.
From my current location I could go South to Key West and then skirt the Cuban coast until I hit Cancun, thereupon resting up some and refueling before continuing South. Or, I could follow the northern Gulf coast - Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, Bay of Campeche, Isla Mujeres and then South to Belize and Guatemala.
If you were me which way would you go?
My 1979 Prairie 29 has the original Perkins 4-108 but it was completely rebuilt four years ago. I have the receipts and have spoken to the mechanic, who I have a lot of faith in.
So, would you take an old Prairie 29 from here to Belize and the Rio Dulce? If so, what time of year would you go? What would you be watching out for? Would you seriously consider re-powering, maybe with a Beta? Other ideas?
This would likely be a one way trip for me. And also solo but with my 20 pound dog, I suspect.
All thoughts and suggestions are very much appreciated.
Thank you. M.
Sunset Harbor Miami
