Wild Bill

Vessel Requirements & Navigation Constraints

Draft (depth below waterline): A draft over 5 ft is discouraged—some areas (e.g., Gulf ICW and Ontario canals) require drafts under 5 ft; Trent–Severn Waterway requires 6 ft clearance and may require waivers; Rideau Canal is only 5 ft.

Air draft (height clearance): Most restrictive is a fixed bridge on the Illinois River at 19.6 ft. Some Erie Canal bridges may be as low as 15–15.5 ft; Oswego Canal allows up to 21 ft.

Fuel range: Longest stretch without refueling is ~200 miles between Kimmswick, MO and Paducah, KY. Extra fuel may be needed.

Locks and canal widths: The narrowest lock is the Port Severn Lock on the Trent–Severn Waterway at 23 ft width—could be restrictive for very wide vessels.

Onboard Physical Safety

Grab Rails Everywhere: Helm, galley, head, passageways, and cockpit.
Non-Skid Flooring: Inside and out; reduces falls.
Harness & Tether (if topside): If outside the helm while underway, Captain Watt should clip into jacklines — same as offshore sailing safety.
Accessible Cabin Layout: Wide passageways, roll-in shower, adjustable berth, no tripping hazards.
Service Dog Support: “Blue” aids balance and can alert the First Mate during a medical event.