The "don't worry about the others part" We've done a fair amount of cruising with boats 10 to 20 feet longer than we are. We only do it when the destinations are doable for US. We often leave a little earlier, take an extra day or because we are on the Chesapeake and we draw 3 ft or less, take the shortcuts over the shoals. We will even (gasp) motor so we don't miss the party. On the other hand, if we decide to bail on a destination we do make sure we have the other folks cell phone numbers so we can let them know.