Boating Lifestyle

Captain Trip Smith's and 195 Miles Solo Boat Camping

195 Miles Solo: Navigating Rain, Springs, and Engine Trouble on the St. Johns River

Embarking on a long-distance small boat expedition requires equal parts optimism and technical resilience. In Part 1 of his Northeast Florida loop, adventure creator Trip Smith sets off on a planned 350-mile journey, tackling the initial 195-mile stretch solo aboard his custom skiff setup. The route takes him up the historic, slow-moving waters of the St. Johns River before eventual plans to loop back down the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW).

Elements, Rain, and Crystal-Clear Springs

The trip kicks off amidst unpredictable Florida weather, testing both vessel setup and onboard camping arrangements. Navigating heavy rainfall and overcast skies, Trip establishes an efficient boat-camping rhythm, using custom tarps and compact gear to convert his open deck into a dry overnight shelter.

As the skies clear, the expedition pivots into breathtaking natural settings, including stops at Florida's famous freshwater spring runs. Navigating these pristine, gin-clear waters showcases the unique utility of a shallow-draft skiff, allowing access to spots larger cruisers can only dream of reaching.

Unplanned Maintenance: Engine Troubleshooting Mid-Voyage

Cruising extended distances solo inevitably puts mechanical reliability to the test. Halfway through the 195-mile leg, the outboard motor develops a misfire and rough idle. Rather than calling for a tow, Trip drops anchor to troubleshoot the issue on the water:

  • Diagnostic Check: Inspecting fuel lines, spark plugs, and electrical connections under field conditions.

  • Maintenance & Fixes: Swapping out fouled spark plugs and addressing fuel system moisture to restore smooth running order.

  • Key Takeaway: Demonstrating why carrying spare ignition parts, basic tools, and fuel treatment is mandatory for remote boat camping trips.

Halfway There and Looking Ahead

Despite weather delays and mechanical hiccups, Part 1 wraps up with the motor purring and the boat safely anchored after logging nearly 200 miles of river navigation. Showing the true realities of long-haul small boat travel, this leg highlights the essential skills every boat camper needs: adaptability, proper electrical and fuel troubleshooting, and effective gear management for living aboard a small craft.

About Capt. Trip Smith

Capt. Trip Smith is one of BoatTEST.com's lead captains and marine journalists. With years of experience testing hundreds of boats, Trip combines real-world boating knowledge with BoatTEST's rigorous performance-testing methodology. His reviews go beyond the specifications, covering handling, ride quality, comfort, design, and how each boat performs in real-world conditions, helping boaters make informed buying decisions.

 

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