One other item to emphasize. I have ZERO concern about airline extra bag fees - that's free in my book ($35 - 75/bag is irrelevant). What I am concerned about is the liklihood of it showing up (since the gear inside is so important for the trip, and very valuable.) That's why I'm interested in at least evaluating a shipping option. One other individual has suggested possibly shipping to STT and ferry over myself - that's certainly an option/thought.