Adam n all, Our 12' rib with Yamaha 25 serves us well for exploring. We loosely estimate we have a range of a 5 mile radius. Typically our outgoing exploration trips meanders all over the place and the return run is WOT and the shortest distance between 2 points. Naturally if we are going to a bar it WOT and is the shortest distance between two points and the return trip finds us wandering endlessly through the outback and to the farside of beyond. Usually just looking for the darn mothership. However, whether intentionally or by chance there is usually a bar somewhere along the way. Hence we also fill our 6 gal primary and tote along a 6 gal bacK-up. What I think is more inportant is to carry the right gear which we do in a cooler that acts as dry storage and and a seat. We never explore outside of an anchorage without radio, signaling devices, anchor, water and water resistant warm jackets. As Rudy might say We have learned from Lynn's mistakes Sent via MOTOBLURb" on Verizon Wireless