Ed, What is your experience handling boats? How many people in your party? If you intend to cross in something along the lines of a Boston Whaler, your total equipment is allready heavily dictated by simple weight considerations. You are going from familiar terrain to unfamiliar terrain. this includes resources and people. I think you would do well to consider securing yourself where you are. to start, take an inventory of what you have;food,water,medical supplies,transport ,shelter.