It would be nice if we new where "south" was. You in the Atlantic, the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific? From where you leaving and to where are you going? The ICW (or ditch, as it is affectionally called), can get confusing, so one of the first things you need to learn is the channel markers so you know where the Intercoastal is in comparison to other channels, and also figure out inbound and outbound, or you may find yourself in a mess when you get into congested areas or where lots of waterways converge. Next, you need to have a keel that isn't too deep so you are running aground all the time. Obviously where ever you go, you need to know how much water you have under your keel. Next, unless you are really familiar with the ditch and have experience, it is a good thing to stop before sundown and anchor or find a marina. Marinas, as suggested above, are expensive, but you might find that you just want to get off the boat, or to fuel and water up or find a meal on shore every now and then. The cheap alternative is anchoring and doing that after dark can be daunting if you aren't familiar with the area. Traveling the ICW can be interesting because of all the interesting little towns you can visit. And, it can be boring too as often you will be motoring down the ditch looking at nothing but trees for miles and miles. And, then you will also encounter bridges, which slow you up, but maybe you're not in a hurry. Traveling on the outside is a much faster way to get down the coast. But, obviously you have to watch weather windows and if it gets nasty you might find the comfort of the ditch a nicer place to be. But, once you sail or boat off shore, it gets in your blood and you'd much prefer to be on the outside. At least that's the case with me. Have fun regardless.
