Lots of people do this

There were sometimes over 150 boats checking in to the Cruiser's Net at Little Current - boats sailing or motoring on the North Channel.  And these were just those checking in.
We have seen hundreds - maybe more! - people doing something like what we are doing.  Most are not going as far as we are planning, but a whole lot are.  We keep meeting people who have or will be traveling to Florida for the winter, some of whom do this every year.

Moral to story - we're aren't the only ones crazy enough to take a trip like this.

Punch line - There are plenty of people to provide help, information, and companionship out here.  Wow.