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Cruising America’s Great Loop: Advice for First-Time Cruisers

An educational Q&A with America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association Director, Kimberly Russo.

Cruising the Great Loop

When you think of boating and sailing, words like “freedom,” “escape,” and “adventure” likely come to mind. Whether it’s a few hours of day boating or a weekend onboard overnight cruising, boats provide a one-way ticket to a vacation on-demand.

Here at KnowWake, our team was curious: where and how is the best way to experience an ultimate, unmatched boating trip for the ages, and put your skills to the test as a proficient boater? Well, many seasoned salts—and long-time KnowWake users—would agree that there’s only one route in the United States worthy of that description: America’s Great Loop.

To understand just exactly what America’s Great Loop is, and what it takes to successfully cruise—and complete—the Great Loop, we turned to the experts at America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (AGLCA) .

Speaking with AGLCA Director Kimberly Russo, we were determined to come away with some expert tips and advice for new cruisers (and KnowWake users) who are interested in cruising the Great Loop for the very first time.

KnowWake: What is the Great Loop?

Kim Russo: The Great Loop is probably best described as the boating adventure of a lifetime! It’s a 6,000-mile water route that circumnavigates the eastern part of the U.S., and often part of Canada.

The route takes you northward on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, through the Chesapeake Bay, along the New Jersey coastline to New York Harbor, up the Hudson River to the New York state canals, through the Great Lakes to the Inland rivers near Chicago, down the rivers to the Gulf of Mexico, and around the tip of Florida.

How long does it take to complete the Great Loop?

KR: The amount of time it takes to complete the Great Loop can vary a lot, but it’s still common to do this in about a year. The route is seasonal because you want to be on the Great Lakes when it’s warm and Florida in the winter—so many Loopers spend the spring heading up the east coast, the summer in the Great Lakes, the fall on the inland rivers, and the winter in Florida.

More and more, we’re seeing Loopers take multiple years to complete the route so they can do lots of side trips and take their time visiting the big cities and small towns around the Loop.

What are the best types of boats to do the Great Loop?

KR: First and foremost, the boat must be able to handle some rough water since you’ll be going through the Gulf of Mexico, the Great Lakes, and various sounds and inlets then can churn up some waves.

Then, you must be able to clear a 19.7’ bridge at mile marker 300 on the Illinois Waterway. There are other low bridges, but that’s the lowest one where there is no alternate route to get around it, so you have to be able to get under it.

After that, a lot is left to personal preference, comfort, and cruising style. You’ll have an easier time getting in and out of some of the marinas and traveling during low tide if you don’t draw more than five feet. And some of the historic canals like the Trent Severn in Canada can not accommodate a boat whose draft is more than 6-feet or whose beam is more than 23-feet, so you’ll need to do some research on your intended route based on your vessel.

The average boat in the AGLCA fleet is 40-feet.

Where does the Great Loop start? And end? Can you begin anywhere?

KR: You can start anywhere, and you “cross your wake” when you arrive back at your starting point.

What are the top 3 pieces of advice or tips that AGLCA would recommend for newcomers interested in cruising the Great Loop?

KR: 1. Be sure to start planning well in advance. There are lots of great resources available before you drop the dock lines and it’s good to ask questions and gather information, so you know what to expect.

2. Be sure you are capable and comfortable handling your boat in a variety of sea conditions. You don’t have to be a lifelong boater to safely do the Great Loop, but you do have to understand the basic rules of the road and be able confidently run your boat to keep yourself, your crew, and the boats and boaters around you safe.

3. When you start the Loop, don’t have a schedule! It can cause you to miss things along the way if you’re in a hurry. And, some of the bad decisions we see, like leaving a safe harbor on a questionable weather day, are often the result of someone insisting on being at a certain place at a certain time.

Ready to begin your own adventure of a lifetime cruising America’s Great Loop? Download the KnowWake app today to map your journey.

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The Great Loop is the epic U.S. adventure you’ve never heard of

This nautical journey charts a 6,000-mile course from the Great Lakes to the Florida Keys (and back).

The great American road trip has experienced a resurgence during the pandemic. But there’s a downside: This summer is projected to feature crowded campsites, expensive gas , and no end to long lines and traffic jams.

Luckily, there is another epic U.S. adventure that few know about—and even fewer undertake each year.

The Great Loop —a year-long, nearly 6,000-mile journey through the eastern United States and Canada ’s interconnected water passages—takes boaters counterclockwise from the Gulf and Atlantic Intracoastal Waterways to the Erie Canal, Great Lakes, Canadian Heritage Canals, and the Mississippi and Tennessee Rivers.

It’s hardly as nerve-wracking as most celebrated nautical excursions . “You can cruise to Tahiti, but you’re spending weeks in the middle of the open ocean,” says Kim Russo, director of America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (AGLCA), a group created in 1999 that prepares boaters for the voyage. “For a lot of people, it’s daunting to be out of sight of land and without resources for that long.”

In contrast, the Great Loop is easier to visualize—and for many, easier to navigate. Most travel by powerboat. Others journey by sailboat, fishing boat, kayak, and even standup paddleboard. The experience itself is most similar to “European canal boats,” Russo says.

Much like the canals, land flanks most of the Great Loop—acting as a guardrail and guidepost. Several open-water stints, including a Gulf of Mexico crossing and portions of the Great Lakes, where shores are but a speck on the horizon, add adrenaline to the route.

( See these stunning sailing adventures around the world .)

Despite its geographical range, the Great Loop remains under the radar. Fewer than 200 “loopers” complete the trip annually, with retirees making up the majority—but things are changing thanks to a growing coterie of family loopers .

“[Families] are realizing that if they can work and learn from home, why not do so aboard a boat?” Russo says. This development harkens back to the loop’s earliest full voyage in 1906, when boat-builder Scott Matthews took his family on the epic journey. His grandson later co-produced a documentary about the voyage.

With thousands of miles of ocean, rivers, and lakes, the Great Loop is a bit more adrenaline-pumping than the typical family trip to the beach. Swells, currents, and storms can make the journey tricky. But as any looper will tell you, that’s all part of the fun.

Great Loop pioneers

The Great Loop was never officially forged or constructed. It follows existing waterways mostly maintained by federal and state governments. In the late 19th century, Ken Ransom , an 18-year-old sailor raised on the shores of Lake Michigan, was the first to see the potential for adventure in America’s nautical maze.

Despite his mother’s pleading, Ransom successfully rallied three high-school friends to join his lofty quest: a full circumnavigation of eastern U.S. In 1898 Ransom and his crew departed on their homemade vessel, a 30-foot white-oak sailboat named Gazelle . The teens faced hair-raising escapades, from navigating the Great Arctic Outbreak of 1899 that brought ice to the Mississippi River, to getting lost in Sanibel Island ’s mangrove forest, and later hiring horses to pull their boat up the Erie Canal.

Despite setbacks, Ransom succeeded; his victory opened the door to subsequent expeditions, including the first family to attempt the loop, in 1906. Unlike Ransom’s crew, Ohio boat-builder Matthews and his wife and three young children journeyed in a 70-foot yacht built by Matthews himself. Engine-powered boats like Matthews’ yacht fare on better for the Great Loop expedition. Sailboats, with deep drafts and high masts, can prove challenging with the trail’s amalgam of conditions.

( These tales of high-seas adventures will inspire you .)

From enhanced boats to upgraded marinas, much has changed on the Great Loop since the early 1900s, including the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway , a 234-mile passage erected by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1984 to connect the Tennessee and Tombigbee rivers. With this shortcut, loopers shave off the lower Mississippi River, making the trip significantly faster, and more pleasurable, since the lower Mississippi can get bogged down with barges and commercial shipping, Russo says.

Learning on the water  

With easier access to technology and the pandemic redefining the traditional workspace , many aspiring loopers took their work and education to the water—a feat families such as the Bowlins , now 5,000 miles into their trip, have mastered.

Sarah and Brent Bowlin, parents of Mary Grace, 13, and Miller, 9, live aboard their yatch, Light and Salty, with their puppy, Captain. The Bowlins spent five years planning the journey, moving Mary Grace and Miller into a hybrid mix of in-school and at-home for preparation. They sold their house and bought their new home right before the pandemic hit in early 2020. Determined, they decided to move forward with their Great Loop plans in May 2020.  

( Forget homeschooling during the pandemic. Teach life skills instead .)

As expected, family life on the loop is eventful—and a chance for Sarah and Brent to build memories with their rapidly-growing children. But their routine is not much different from life back in their former home, North Carolina. The Bowlins dock during the week for remote work and school, then cruise for fun and hands-on education each weekend.

Much of the family’s hands-on learning extends to environmental concerns. Over the past several decades, freshwater ecosystems have become the most degraded in the world, from the rampant microplastic pollution in the Tennessee River to the destructive blend of urban and agricultural pollutants affecting the Mississippi River watershed.  

“The entire [Mississippi] watershed is one of the largest and most serious challenges facing our rivers today,” says John Rumpler, clean water program director for environmental advocacy group Environment America . Each year, excess, nutrient-dense debris travels down the river into the Gulf of Mexico, where it creates an annual hypoxic “dead zone” strong enough to kill fish and marine life each summer. In 2020, Gulf of Mexico’s dead zone measured 2,116 square miles.

Rumpler notes many of the river system’s worst pollutants, such as microplastics , aren’t visible to the naked eye. Others, such as algal blooms on the Great Lakes and invasive species in the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, are more obvious and present vital firsthand conservation lessons for loopers.

( Rivers and lakes are the most degraded ecosystems in the world. Can we save them? )  

“Reading about environmental threats in a textbook is one thing, seeing them firsthand is another,” says science writer Cynthia Berger, who explored the loop with her husband, Bill Carlsen, professor emeritus of science education at Penn State University. The duo, both trained as aquatic ecologists, tackled the loop in a solar-powered canal boat in 2010 as part of Carlsen’s sabbatical studying environmental sustainability, community development, natural history, and engineering.

Berger and Carlsen witnessed the deterioration of the waterways firsthand. Some perils, such as the invasive Asian carp species threatening the Great Lakes , left a tangible mark. “If Asian carp are startled, the whole school will jump out of the water,” Berger says, recalling when a nearly 20-pound carp leaped “like [a] bowling ball” into the air breaking a boat window. “Here’s this problem we’d heard about in the news, and it was right there in our faces on the river.”  

Try a “mini loop”

A year on the water isn’t the only way to appreciate the Great Loop. Aspiring loopers and boating enthusiasts can hit one of the AGLCA’s recommended mini loops to test the waters.

The Triangle Loop: One month

Hit two countries in one trip with the famed Triangle Loop, a 700-mile jaunt from the northeast U.S. into Canada . Embark from the Hudson River, heading up the mountain-fringed Lake Champlain and the Richelieu Canal before landing in Montreal to explore the city’s rich French history.  

Meander past the unspoiled Thousand Islands along the southwestward coast, before hitting the Oswego and Erie Canals, which spills back into the Hudson after nearly 350 culture-packed miles. (Note: The U.S.–Canada border is still closed, but loopers can enter by hiring a Canadian captain .)

The Florida Loop: Two weeks  

Explore the lower third of Florida on a voyage bursting with flora and fauna. Set sail from the Intracoastal Waterway near Stuart, Florida, gliding through the biodiverse Lake Okeechobee, before reaching Fort Myers. Wind down the gulf toward one of the loop’s main attractions: a cruise along the lush Florida Keys archipelago, where dolphins and sea turtles await. Inch up the Atlantic, from Miami to West Palm Beach, to close this scenic loop. Aspiring sailors can receive hands-on loop guidance from Capable Cruising , a Fort Myers-based outfitter that provides on-boat preparedness lessons.

The Carolina Loop: Three days

A shorter, but no less impressive, trip is the Carolina Loop, a 110-mile trip around eastern North Carolina   and Virginia . Snake through wetland forests and cottage-dotted shores on this weekend-long journey. The route flows from Norfolk down to Currituck, along the Albemarle Sound, then up through Elizabeth City. The final leg—the white-cypress-spotted Dismal Swamp Canal, home to river otters and black bears—gives an alluring taste of the full Great Loop adventure.

The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted travel. When planning a trip, be sure to research your destination and take safety precautions before, during, and after your journey. Click here for National Geographic reporting on the pandemic.

Stephanie Vermillion is a travel and outdoors journalist, filmmaker, and photographer. Follow her adventures on Twitter and Instagram .

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• ADVENTURE TRAVEL
• FAMILY TRAVEL

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SUPER LOOPERS LLC

The great loop route, america's great loop route.

This is your introduction to America's Great Loop and to "The Looper's Companion Guide" which provides you with a 140 "cruising day" itinerary for cruising the best, safest route, route options and side-trips around America's Great Loop.

Following the Looper's Companion Guide, you will never be far from land and often no more than a stone's throw from it. Unlike crossing the ocean, you will always be accessible to emergency medical personnel, pharmacies, hospitals, banks, post offices, rental cars, airports, restaurants, and a countless number of the most popular tourist attractions in all of North America.

You will cruise by Castles and Cathedrals, Mountains and Marshlands, Giant Cypress Trees, Sawgrass and even Civil War Battlefields. You will cruise along rolling hillsides and lush Vinyards, Antebellum Mansions, Big Cities, Century old Towns, Small Fishing Villages and enchanting riverside Vistas. Along the way you will cruise thru exceptionally beautiful waters with pristine sandy beaches, hundreds of historic lighthouses, and a never-ending, always tempting, row of waterfront Restaurants & Tiki Bars.

Who does not love coming home with a great story to tell? Nothing beats the excitement of an epic boating adventure, visiting amazing destinations while voyaging through incredible ever-changing landscapes. But what does it cost? How long does it take? What type & size boat does one need? You need answers to these questions before you even decide to go, and we're here to answer them for you.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO CRUISE AMERICA'S GREAT LOOP?

You need to be a safe boater in a safe, seaworthy, suitable and comfortable boat..

There are some that have the misconception that cruising America's Great Loop requires a PHD in Navigation, a Marine Mechanics license and a Masters in Weather Forecasting. We assure you, it does not! With today's technology, cruising the Great Loop is safe, fun & easy!

All you need to complete this voyage safely, is to be a safe boater in a safe, seaworthy, suitable, and affordable long distance cruising boat. One that is equipped with a small galley, marine head, sleeping accommodations, and will be comfortable to live aboard for an extended period of time.

YES, YOU WILL NEED MONEY

How much depends on you as well as the 'type' and 'size' of your boat..

This adventure is NOT cheap! But, it doesn't need to break the bank, and you don't need to be rich & famous (as some would have us all believe). On our 2022/23 voyage which was during the peak of Inflation & Fuel prices, we made this voyage in a 26' C-Dory with a 60hp outboard. We spent 322 nights on the Loop. We stayed 51 nights at FREE DOCKS. We anchored out 156 nights and stayed in Marinas 46 weekends for a total of 115 nights. We spent pennies shy of $5,600 for fuel, $6,670 in Marina fees, for a total 'transportation & lodging' cost of $12,270. That covered our 140 'actual cruising days' on the main route' for 5,465-miles. We logged 671 engine hours and averaged 41-miles a day. However, "transportation & lodging' is not all of one's cost cruising the Loop. We still have our living expenses, plus our expenses for eating out, and having fun being a tourist.

YOU MAY NEED LOTS OF MONEY! Lots and Lots of money!

Boat, fuel, and marina fees are just half the cost.

What does it cost to keep you happy? If you think this is just one long boat ride, you're in for a shockingly awesome surprise and experience.

The Great Loop is an epic adventure filled with amazing destinations so inviting and tempting, you will want to stop, shop, stay and linger at a hundred or more of them. That's impossible to do without spending money. From fabulous waterfront restaurants to big cities, small towns, and places in between, this voyage is an exceptional "vacation". We spend more for fun ashore than we spend on fuel & marina fees. But that's because we have a very frugal boat.

MORE FUN THAN FUEL

Our "More Fun than Fuel" boating philosophy is a result of our first voyage around the Loop. That was in a 44' twin-engine fuel breathing dragon. As a result, we had to pour the bulk of our "Cruising Kitty" and all our 'fun money' down our fuel tanks.

Believe us when we say you cannot possibly anticipate the countless destinations along the way where you will want to stop, shop, eat out, see the sights, and explore - and obviously, it either cost money or we spend money doing it.

The most often expressed regrets from previous Loopers are not anticipating all the great destinations that tempted them off their boat to explore and eat out. And not taking more time to see the sights on shore.

Want More "FUN" money?

Think not how big, but how small.

We meet a couple that almost bought a fantastic 32' Trawler with a small single engine. Then the salesman showed them a 48-footer with big twin engines. Immediately, the two heads, two cabins and all the added space for the same price, sold them on the bigger boat.

When we met them, their 'new to them' 48-footer was for sale. Why? After just one month cruising the Loop, they realized that boat was going to cost them a lot more in fuel than they paid for the boat. Don't let this happen to you! Unless of course you know you can afford the boat, afford the fuel, the greater Marina fees, and still have plenty of money to have fun on along the way.

YOUR BOAT, YOUR VOYAGE, YOUR MONEY

We all have our own lifestyles, income & budgets. we are in no way trying to tell anyone what boat is best for them or how to spend their money. our goal is simply to provide everyone with their options. some have no problems spending $30,000 for fuel, and another $30,000 to stay in a marina every night, and still afford to spend yet another $30,000 just eating out and being a tourist. sadly, some of these people have blogs about their great loop voyage, and it gives readers the opinion if they don't have a $300,000 boat and another $90,000 to make this voyage, they can't afford it". but that's not required, and it's certainly not true for most of us., a sailboat is the most fuel efficient. . ., this sailboat has the mast cut down to 14' above the water line..

We've taken several sailboats around the Loop. Even with the mast cut down or removed, a sailboat 'motored' around will be your very most fuel-efficient choice. Capt. John cut the mast down to 14' above the water line and motored around the entire Loop burning 1 gallon of fuel per hour. That's about as frugal as it gets.

ANCHORING OUT

Aside from a very fuel-efficient vessel, anchoring out will save you an awful lot of money..

On our 2021/22 voyage, most Marinas were charging upwards of $2.00 per foot length of your boat, plus $5 for 30amp electric & $10 for 50amp electric.

So in addition to fuel, the bigger the boat, the bigger will be your Marina fees. Some Loopers stay in marinas most every night while others seldom stay in a marina at all. We only stay at marinas where there are interesting sights to see and things to do nearby.

CHEESEBURGER IN PARADISE!

Some places are just too irresistable to pass up. this one was the inspiration for jimmy buffet's song "cheeseburger in paradise..

On average, Loopers spend about 330 days on the Loop. While only 140 or them are spent actually cruising. The rest are spent being a tourist along the way. As a result, the most frequently mentioned regret from previous Loopers is they did not take their time to stop and visit more places along the way.

"The Looper's Companion Guide" provides the safest, easiest routes to all the Looper Favorite Destinations.

It will take you to a hundred or more exciting and spectacular destinations..

Following "The Looper's Companion Guide", your voyage will be very near a minimum of 5,600-miles plus any miles you add by taking some of the recommended side trips. If cruising Canada, it will take you as near the Artic Circle as it does the Tropics of the Equator. You will cruise as far east as the Outer Banks and as far west as the Mississippi River. Optional side-trips will take you to places you never thought possible to reach in your very own boat.

YES, YOU WILL CRUISE RIGHT BY THE STATUE OF LIBERTY

New york, new york - if you make it here, you can make it anywhere on america's great loop..

New York City is a place we've all heard of, and a great place to visit. However, this voyage will take you to some century old towns, enchanting riverside vistas, waterfronts, beaches and even restaurants you have never heard of. Many of which will beseech you for a return visit.

YOU CAN CRUISE RIGHT THRU DOWNTOWN CHICAGO

If your boat can clear a 17' fixed bridge, you can cruise right thru downtown chicago. how cool is that.

Chicago is a great stop. The Navy Pier, the Miracle Mile, and Millennial Park are must visits in our opinion. Of course, you don't want to be this close and not experience at least one or two of Chicago's world-famous restaurants.

Loopers also need to be well south of Chicago by mid-November, as the Locks are closed for the winter. The closings can happen sooner depending on the weather. You sure don't want to get stuck here for the winter! It gets really cold.

FROM NEW YORK TO NIAGARA FALLS

Some things, you just cannot stress enough. . ..

If your vessel can clear a 15' 6" fixed bridge, you can cruise the full length of the Erie Canal from the Hudson River to the Niagara River & Lake Erie. Once you reach Tonawanda or Buffalo, you're just a short Uber or rental car away from Niagara Falls. Obviously, not the place you want to visit on your boat!

WASHINGTON DC ON THE POTOMAC RIVER

The marina here is in the center of everything you'll want to see & do..

The Capital, the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Wall, Arlington Cemetery, the Smithsonian, Ford's Theater? What do you want to see in Washington DC? It's a great stop, and the City just spent about $5-billion of your tax paying money on a great Riverwalk, Boardwalk, Park area including the Marina, with lots of restaurants & shops, right on the water.

GATLINBURG and the GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS. . .

Volunteer landing marina in knoxville, is just a 40-minute rental car from gatlingburg & the smoky mountains.

No, Gatlinburg is not a waterfront town on the Loop, but you may never be so close! We love it so much the Tennessee River to Knoxville & Gatlinburg has become our favorite side-trip. From Volunteer Landing you are just a 40-minute rental car from Gatlinburg & the highest point in the Smoky Mountains. Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge offer a mountain of things to do and see. You'll love your visit here!

NASA - CAPE CANAVERAL

You might never be so close..

Between Melbourne & Titusville, Cape Canaveral is just waiting for you to cruise by in time to catch the next launch. Which by the way, have been happening almost weekly since all the rich guys have taken up rocketry as a hobby. My permanent residence is about 5-miles from the launch site, and when those things take off, my house shakes and windows rumble. It's a great tour, and lots of great restaurants at the docks near the Cape. Also, lots of Carnival Cruise Ships going in & out.

ST LOUIS - GATEWAY TO THE WEST ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER

. . . and that is to take your time on this voyage to see the sites. Cruising the Great Loop is like cruising by Conde' Nast's Top 100 list of wonderful places in the North America where you will want to stop, shop, stay & linger longer.

NASHVILLE ON THE CUMBERLAND RIVER

It's a great little side-trip up the cumberland river.

Nashville offers great restaurants, a fantastic night life, and the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music's Hall of Fame, the Johnny Cash Museum, the Whiskey Bent Saloon and the Jack Daniels Distillery. Enough to do here to spend a week or weekend. You are passing through the Cumberland Gap, the land of Jim Bowie, Davy Crockett, the Chillicothe & Swanee Indians. Some Indian' rock art in this area has dated to be over 6,000 years old.

BOATING ON A BUDGET

The moment you select your boat, is the moment you select you long-distance cost of cruising..

Forget the purchase price of your boat. For this voyage, it is the 'cost of cruising' that is most important. We have met Loopers that had to stop and sell their fuel burning gas guzzlers and buy a smaller more efficient cruising boat in order to complete this voyage. We've met more than one couple that spent more for fuel then they paid for their boat. Don't let it happen to you!

Transportation & Lodging

We believe as long as you are well informed about what to expect, there is a safe boat and an affordable budget for everyone..

Under some conditions no boat is big enough. In other conditions no boat is small enough. Either way you go, there will be times you wish for a bigger boat, and times you will wish for a smaller boat. Cruising long-distance is a game of compromises. No matter your budget, there's an affordable boat just waiting for you to make this dream adventure yours.

HOW'S THIS FOR A SMALL TOWN?

Carrabelle is known for the "smallest police office" in the world..

And yes, you're looking at it. . . The Police Station is a phone booth. Carrabelle is also a popular place on America's Great Loop. This is where we spend an extra day or two, maybe three or more, watching the weather on TV and listening to our VHF for the best weather to make our voyage across the Gulf of Mexico.

YOU'LL MAKE FRIENDS

Since we all time our voyage to be cruising in each area during its best weather, sooner then later, you will meet other loopers along the way..

Your Marine VHF radio generally starts with discussions about fuel stops, marinas, restaurants, and what's up ahead. Soon enough, we find ourselves "buddy boating" along with other Loopers and stopping at all the same fabulous Restaurants, Tiki Bars, anchorages & Marinas.

IT'S NOT ALL ABOUT PEOPLE AND PLACES

For many, this voyage is the first time we experience enough total solitude to ponder who we really are. . ..

The real secret to the Great Loop will not be found in any book or blog. It is found in the life-changing effect this adventure has on all of us. This voyage will force you into thinking about your life and how you want it to be.

YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Many of your most memorable moments will be at destinations you've never heard of..

This is Leland, or FishTown, it is one of the many places along the way that will start your day with delicious delights and great expectations and ends with eager anticipation of tomorrow. On my "More Fun than Fuel" budget, this is a place I could drop my anchor forever. Great place, friendly natives, lots of unique shops, and a couple or restaurants we simply can't pass by.

America's Great Loop

The Great Loop Route www.greatlooproute.com copyright 2021

My Cruiser Life Magazine

The Best Boat for the Great Loop in 2023: Your 6 Boat Options

Embarking on this nautical quest called the Great Loop demands more than wanderlust alone. Selecting the optimal vessel to navigate the Loop’s diverse waterways makes all the difference on this marathon route. Whether you covet the comforts of a spacious trawler, prefer the performance of an agile cruiser or need maximum versatility to “trailer hop” inland rivers, the choice of boat profoundly impacts the journey. In today’s post, I give my recommendations the perfect Great Loop boat.

Table of Contents

6 best boat types for the great loop, what is the great loop, what is involved with the great loop boating adventure, classic trawlers, fast trawlers and downeasts, tug style trawlers, cruisers and motor yachts, power catamarans, the boat you’ve got, great loop size limits, comfortable cabin aboard and long-term living space, engine choices: gas vs. diesel, single vs. twin, 1. draft and height limitations, 2. fuel range and efficiency, 3. living quarters, 4. navigability and handling, 5. type of boat, 6. accessibility and safety features, 8. personal preferences and experience level, 9. research and planning, boat requirements for the great loop, which is your best boat for the great loop, best boat for the great loop faqs.

• Unconventional Boats

The Great Loop stands as one of the premier long-term boating adventures in North America, and arguably, across the globe. Spanning over 6,000 miles, this journey offers boaters an experience akin to a cross-country RV road trip, but on water. It presents a unique opportunity to view the countryside through a different lens, as you navigate through a mix of seaways, canals, and rivers at a relaxed pace.

Let’s explore the ideal boats to embark on this remarkable journey.

Let’s get this out of the way – what’s the Great Loop in the first place?

The Great Loop is an adventure for recreational boaters that takes you on a giant circuit of the eastern half of the United States and Canada . It’s the joining of many smaller waterways, open water stretches, rivers, and canals to make an entire journey that’s about 6,000 nautical miles long. 

Where you begin and end your Great Loop journey usually depends on where you buy or keep your vessel.

Here’s an overview using Norfolk, Virginia, as the starting point.

• Norfolk northbound through Chesapeake Bay, through the C&D Canal, and seaward on Delaware Bay to Cape May, New Jersey.
• Northbound along the Atlantic coast of New Jersey to New York harbor.
• North on the Hudson River to upstate New York. From here, you have several choices depending on how one wants to transit the Great Lakes and how much of the Canadian Heritage Canals one would like to cruise.
• Westbound through the Erie Canal.
• West through the Great Lakes to Chicago.
• South from Chicago through the inland rivers to the Gulf Coast.
• Eastbound along the Gulf Coast to Florida, then southbound on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.
• Either through the Okeechobee Waterway in south Florida or around the tip of the state, through the Florida Keys.
• North from south Florida on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) back to Norfolk.

There are many choices to make the Great Loop your own adventure.

Loopers usually put between 5,000 and 7,000 miles under their keels while making the trip. However, it’s not a race, and there are plenty of opportunities to make side trips and adventures off the main route.

For example, the Downeast Loop is an extension that adds Maine, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edwards Island. The St. Lawrence Seaway will then take you west to the Great Lakes by way of Montreal. Another good example is extending your trip on the south end by adding an adventure in the Islands of The Bahamas.

For the most part, the Great Loop is a motorboat adventure . There are many open water spaces where you might sail, but it’s often constrained to a narrow navigable channel, making sailing much less appealing. In other words, even sailboats wind up motoring for most of the trip. 

Furthermore, the trip transits canals and waterways with many bridge spans, both fixed and opening. The fewer bridges you have to have open for you, the easier your trip. Many fixed bridges mean you’ll have to take the mast off for long sections of the trip.

The trip spans many rural areas, interspersed with small towns and a handful of big cities. Many nights you’ll be anchored or docked in the middle of nowhere. Other times, you’ll have a new city to explore and check out. 

Your boat should suit both styles. You will want the best family boat that is comfortable to live on, with sleeping, bathroom, and cooking facilities that you and your crew find comfortable. Yes, you can do the Loop in an open go-fast boat–but you will miss what many consider the best parts of the Loop. 

Six Best Great Loop Boat Options By Type of Boat

There are too many makes and models of boats in the world for anyone to make a specific recommendation here. Instead, here is a list of six types of boats you’ll find doing the Loop and what makes them well suited for this particular adventure. 

Remember, this is anything but an all-inclusive list. There are hundreds of boat makes out there, hundreds more that aren’t built anymore but can be bought used, and even more when you include custom and one-off designs. These lists are provided simply as a starting point for your research!

The classic trawler is basically the power version of a sailboat–slow-moving, heavy, and economical to operate. They have been around forever; tons were built in the 1970s and 1980s, many in Taiwan. That means that the design is time-tested–they are good-looking and seaworthy. Plus, you can readily find them on the used market for reasonable prices. Most have a maximum speed of about 10 knots.

The popular cruising blog Scho and Jo have set out and completed the Loop on their Albin trawler. Check out their Great Loop expenses for information on the adventure and how it’s done. For more about their boat, check out their boat tour.

Examples of Classic Trawlers:

• Monk 36 (no longer built)
• Grand Banks
• Camino Troll (no longer built)
• Nordhavn 40

The fast trawler is a classic one with a modern hull. Thanks to their improved hull design, they’re capable of faster speeds but use a lot of gas going fast. The best thing about them is probably the simple fact that they can do both comfortably–go slowly and economically or cruise faster (about 15 knots) while still giving a nice ride.

Examples of Fast Trawlers and Downeast Boats:

• Beneteau Swift Trawlers

What was once a unique niche in the boating world has caught on, and quite a few companies are now making tugboat-looking trawlers. They’re sportier than the traditional trawler and have an aesthetic that looks right at home on the rivers of the Great Loop.

Examples of Tugs Include:

• Kadey Krogen
• Lord Nelson Victory Tug (no longer made)

A cruiser is built on a planing hull to go faster. That means more miles per day, fewer nights at anchor, and more fuel consumption while doing it. 

There are many sizes and styles that are appropriate for the Loop, so the key is to find the layout that is most comfortable for you. The two most popular styles include express cruisers and aft-cabin cruisers. 

Examples of cruisers and motor yachts include:

• Sea Ray (many of the best models for the Loop are no longer made)
• Cruiser Yachts
• Bayliner Motoryachts (no longer built)
• Hatteras Cruisers (no longer built)

Power catamarans are popular for the same reason that sail cats are. Thanks to their increased interior volume, two hulls make for a more comfortable living space. Your beam should be less than 23 feet, as the Trent Severn Waterway in Canada limits this. Still, that leaves several interesting power cats that would make fantastic Loop boats. 

Examples of power cats that would be good when boating the Great Loop:

• PDQ 34 Power Catamaran (no longer built)
• Endeavour 440 TrawlerCat

Finally, it has to be mentioned that the best boat is always the boat you’ve got. Lin and Larry Pardey once famously said, “Go small, and go now.” If the Loop is on your bucket list, it’s better to find a boat you can get your hands on that will suit you well enough to travel and enjoy the ride. Don’t spend years saving up for a “maybe adventure.”

Examples of unconventional Looper boats:

• Jet skis that camp along the way
• Open runabouts, sport boats, and fishing boats
• Sailboats–just take the mast off and motor like a trawler!
• Trailerable boats that do it in sections–a trailerable boat lets you do a section and then tow the boat to the next section to cruise at your leisure

What Features Make Good Looper Boats?

So, how do you ever choose the right boat for the Loop? Here are some thoughts on what features make the best Looper boats. 

The limits for your perfect Looper boat will be based on its physical dimensions. According to the Loop Cruiser’s Association, the average looper boat is 39.5 feet long, with more than half between 35 and 45 feet. But this doesn’t tell the whole story, as you must consider each vessel’s dimension.

Air Draft (Bridge Clearance or Height Above Water)

The most limiting fixture on the Loop is a fixed railroad bridge in Chicago that will block any vessel taller than 19 feet, 6 inches. 

But, if you want to do the entire Erie Canal, two bridges offer only 15 feet, 6 inches. Another bridge in downtown Chicago is 17 feet. So, the Loop has lower limits, but most can be gone around by bigger boats. 

Four feet or less of draft is ideal and will mean the fewest problems–although caution is still warranted in many areas. Draft is how deep the hull sits in the water and dictates the minimum water depth for a boat . Any deeper than that, and you will need to be extra cautious. Boats with six-foot drafts have reportedly done it, but few recommend it.

The width of your boat is usually limited to about 16 feet due only to marina slips. 

Catamarans with 23 feet or less can make the trip but require T-heads at most marinas. As a result, finding slips on this trip will be difficult, and finding a place to haul out for boat maintenance is even harder. In addition, there are sections where you’ll need to take a slip occasionally, so anchoring isn’t always an option. 

There’s no limit to length. Some yachts up to 70 feet have made the journey, but it’s a tight fit and most boats that long won’t make it under the bridges. Most Looper boats are under 50 feet, after all, for many reasons.

Think of the Great Loop as an RV adventure where you’re taking your home with you. To that end, realize you’ll be spending a lot of time living aboard your boat. Therefore, the boat should be comfortable, with indoor and outdoor living space and all the amenities you’d want or need. 

Here’s a list of things most people want their boat equipped with when they set off on the Great Loop. Many of these are similar to the considerations people make when living on a sailboat , but some are quite different.

• A comfortable bed, usually an “island queen” (not a v-berth)
• A large galley (kitchen) with plenty of cooking space and the appliances they’re used to (fridge, microwave, coffee maker, stove, oven, etc.)
• A comfortable living room (salon) that has a good view, lots of light, and plenty of ventilation
• An outdoor patio (cockpit) area for open-air dining, socializing, and relaxing
• A descent-sized bathroom area with a separate shower
• Air conditioning and heating (which may require a generator if you plan to anchor overnight extensively)
• Inside and outside helm positions (upper deck on a trawler)

Tankage refers to your boat’s storage space for liquids–water, fuel, and sewage. The larger the tanks are, the longer you can stay away from marinas for refills or pump-outs. 

The Loop has several long stretches through the inland river system that go hundreds of miles between facilities and services. Therefore, your boat should have a fuel range of at least 450 nautical miles and hold enough water for at least a week. 

Some river stretches have fewer gasoline sellers, meaning gas-powered boats need a greater range than diesel boats. They’ll need about 450 miles of range, whereas diesel boats can get by with less.

Beyond that, gas and diesel engines will both work fine on the Loop. Generally, the most popular trawlers and boats of this size come with diesels, which are praised for their longevity and reliable, simple operation. In addition, diesel is safer on a boat because it is less explosive, which could lower your insurance premiums.

Likewise, having a single or twin screw boat is a matter of preference. Single-engine boats can make the journey without problems, but two engines give you redundancy should something go wrong with one and better maneuverability in tight spaces. But, of course, operating and maintenance costs are higher with two engines.

How to Find the Best Boat for You for Sailing the Great Loop

The ideal boat will vary based on personal preferences, budget, and specific requirements for the journey. Here are key considerations to help you find the best boat for your Great Loop adventure:

• Draft: The Great Loop has areas with shallow waters, especially in places like the western rivers and parts of the Intracoastal Waterway. A boat with a shallow draft (ideally less than 5 feet) will have more flexibility and fewer navigation concerns.
• Air Draft: Bridges with fixed heights are a consideration along the Great Loop. To avoid detours, your boat’s air draft (the height from the waterline to the highest fixed point on the boat) should be less than 19 feet, though lower is often better to accommodate all routes.
• Opt for a fuel-efficient boat that has a range of at least 300 miles to comfortably reach fueling stations along the Loop without anxiety, considering both the boat’s fuel capacity and its consumption rate.
• Comfort is key for the long journey. Look for boats that offer adequate living space, a functional galley, comfortable sleeping quarters, and sufficient storage. The size and amenities should match your tolerance for space constraints and your lifestyle needs.
• Choose a boat that handles well in various water conditions. Both inland rivers and lakes, as well as coastal sections of the Loop, can present challenges like currents, tides, and weather changes.
• Trawlers, Sailboats (with a retractable mast for bridges), and Motor Yachts are popular choices because they balance living space, fuel efficiency, and navigability.
• Sailboats can offer the advantage of wind power but consider the need to lower the mast for certain sections of the Loop.
• Catamarans are another option, offering stability, shallow draft, and spacious living areas, but be mindful of their beam (width) and how it may limit access to certain marinas or slips.
• Look for boats with easy access to the bow and stern, strong handholds, and a cockpit or helm that offers good visibility and protection from the elements.
• Safety features should include reliable navigation and communication systems, life-saving equipment, and possibly a dinghy for exploring shallow or narrow areas.
• Consider both the purchase price and the ongoing costs, including maintenance, fuel, marina fees, and potential upgrades. Buying a used boat can be a cost-effective option, but ensure a thorough inspection to assess its condition and suitability for the Loop.
• Your comfort with the boat’s operation, maintenance requirements, and overall feel is crucial. Choose a boat that fits your level of boating experience or one that you’re willing and able to learn to handle confidently.
• Join forums and groups, such as America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (AGLCA), to gain insights from experienced Loopers.
• Consider renting or chartering different types of boats for short trips to gain firsthand experience before making a decision.
• Size/Draft: Boats should generally be less than 60 feet with a draft of 6 feet or under to navigate the various locks, rivers, and waterways along the route.
• Propulsion: Twin engines or a single engine with a bow or stern thruster provides the best maneuverability and redundancy for covering long distances.
• Fuel Capacity: A range of 350-400 miles between refueling is recommended to have a buffer given the distances between marinas in some regions.
• Accommodations: Comfortable sleeping quarters, a functional galley, and enclosed head are needed for multi-day and multi-week trips.
• Hull Type: Displacement hull trawlers, cruisers, and motor yachts are well-suited for the journey. Planing hulls can complete it but will take a fuel efficiency hit at slower canal speeds.
• Navigation: GPS chartplotters, radar, depth finders, and other instruments and marine electronics for navigating varying conditions.
• Operation: Vessel and systems should be completely reliable and redundant where possible given the several thousand mile journey.
• Insurance/Documentation: Vessel documentation and insurance is required for coastal, Great Lakes portions.

Hopefully, this article has provided some ideas and examples of what your best Great Loop boat might be. Beyond a few hard limitations, it’s a matter of taste and style. There’s no right or wrong answer–you’ll often see many unexpected vessels doing the Loop. 

If you’re considering the Loop, check out the America’s Great Loop Cruisers Association for more details.

What size boat is best for the Great Loop?

There’s no set size limit for length, but all boats looking to complete the Loop must pass under a low fixed bridge in the Chicago area. If your boat is more than 19 feet, 6 inches above the water, thou shall not pass.

What is the largest boat to complete the Great Loop?

Some people have reported that boats as long as 70 feet have completed the Loop. But taking a vessel of this size is not recommended, as you must navigate numerous tight locks and low bridges along the route. Most Loopers choose boats less than 50 feet long.

What is the smallest recommended boat for the Great Loop?

The smallest boat is the one that you’re comfortable on. Jet skis have completed the Loop, but they’re limited to staying in hotels or camping. It’s best to have a boat that will be comfortable to live on for the better part of a year. Most people want a boat at least 35 feet long to do that.

What is the average time to complete the Great Loop?

Most cruisers take about a year to do the Loop. Several factors affect this plan, and it’s always an individual choice. Generally, you’ll be northbound in the spring to be westbound through the Great Lakes in the summer. Then you “fall down” the rivers in the autumn so that you can over-winter in Florida. But many people take breaks, leave their boats in storage, and complete the Loop in sections. Furthermore, many folks want to take their time and enjoy the scenery. It’s not a race, after all.

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

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If you cruise the East Coast long enough, sooner or later, someone will ask you if you have completed T he Great Loop . This is a fun filled 5,000 miles plus adventure that takes the cruiser through 16 states and Canada. It makes a wonderful one-year and spectacular two-year cruise. For an outline of the route refer to the image below.

The Great Loop is completed almost entirely in protected waters, with only a few open water passages. These open water passages can easily be crossed in good weather, and thus are enjoyable as well. Starting in Florida, the boater would proceed up the East Coast of the United States on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway to Virginia and the Chesapeake Bay. After cruising the Chesapeake and Delaware Bays, the route goes offshore from Cape May to New York harbor.  At New York City the route proceeds north up the Hudson River to Troy, NY, then west via the Erie Canal to either Lakes Ontario or Erie. Most "loopers" take the Lake Ontario route which leads to the Trent-Severn Waterway, Georgian Bay and North Channel in Canada. Then it's Lake Michigan to Chicago. Next, the route heads south down the Illinois River to the Mississippi, down the Mississippi to the Ohio and up the Ohio a short 50 miles to the Tennessee River at Paducah, KY. Then, it's south from Paducah, KY via the Tennessee River and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway (usually referred to as the Tenn-Tom) to Mobile Bay and the Gulf Coast.

The cruiser then heads east from Mobile following the protected waters of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway to Fort Myers, FL. Finally, at Fort Myers the cruiser crosses Florida via the Okeechobee Waterway to Stuart, FL and completes the Great Loop.

Nearly any type of personal watercraft can be used to make this trip. Large and small boats, sailboats, trawlers, motor yacht, houseboats, canoes and jet skis have completed it. You must know your vessel's height and draft requirements.

See this story about the kayaker who completed The Great Loop in 2023.

Your vessel's characteristics will decide, to a certain extent, the route you take. If your vessel draws less than 5 feet and can clear a height of 15', there are no restrictions. You can follow any of several routes. If your vessel draws more than 8 feet or has a height requirement of more than 19'.7", you cannot make the trip. (Chicago is the limiting spot with a fixed bridge of 19' 7".) For sailboats with masts that can be un-stepped or powerboats/trawlers with high structures, some adjustment must be made to the vessels height to get it down to at least 19' and preferably 15'.

In general, height restrictions apply only after you enter the New York Canal System at Troy, NY and continue until you reach Mobile, AL on the Gulf Coast.

It is possible to put the mast of sailboats back up once the vessel has reached the Great Lakes, so the vessel can sail while cruising these waters. However, if you do put the mast back up when you enter the Great Lakes, you will have to un-step it again when you reach Chicago, IL on Lake Michigan. Mast stepping and un-stepping can be performed at marinas just before and after you enter the New York Canal System, Chicago, or Mobile, AL. Information in cruising guides recommended in this book tells you which marinas perform this service.

For vessels sailing north from Florida that draw less than 8 feet and have a height of less than 63 feet there is no need for concern until you reach the New York Canal System at Troy, NY. Before you proceed north of Troy you must get your height down to 20 feet and preferably 15 feet. Once you reach the Waterford, NY you must choose one of 2 basic routes. Via Lake Champlain your height restriction is 17' (Champlain Canal) and depth restriction is 5' (Rideau Canal). The Lake Champlain Route is longer and has more locks and is not recommended as it adds so much to your long trip already. However, if you do not plan to travel the northeast waters again or you are taking more than one year, you may want to squeeze these extra 3 canals into your plan.

The other choice, and the shorter route, via the Erie Canal, starts with a clearance of 20 feet and the water has a controlled depth of 12 feet. At mile 160 of the Erie Canal, Three Rivers, you must choose between one of three routes based on your height and depth requirements. They are in order of preference:

• Trent-Severn Waterway
• Complete Erie Canal
• Welland Canal

The figure below depicts the height and depth restrictions of the three routes. As you can see, most vessels can transit the Trent-Severn Waterway. Some must go the complete Erie Canal route, but a few each year must go via the Welland Canal.

The Trent-Severn Route

A major part of your decision in choosing the Trent-Severn route is your height and depth requirements. The Trent-Severn has a controlled depth of 6 feet and height of 22 feet. However, if you draw more than 5', you must sign a waiver. The issue with a deep draft is not in the locks, but in the channel and shoaling. For vessels drawing 5' or less there is no problem. From 5 to 6' you must use extra care and get approval to enter the Trent Severn. If you cannot meet these requirements, you must choose one of the two alternatives.

The Trent-Severn Waterway provides the greatest protection, the most to see and do, and most beautiful water to cruise while crossing the Great Lakes. If you can, and do choose this route, you also avoid Lake Erie and Lake Huron while crossing the Great Lakes, thus traveling in more protected waters. The Trent-Severn route starts when you proceed north via the Oswego Canal from Three Rivers on the Erie Canal. You then cross Lake Ontario and enter the Trent-Severn Waterway at Trenton, Ontario in Canada on the northern shore. While crossing the Trent-Severn you will encounter all this historic canal has to offer including, but not limited to, lovely villages, friendly people, the famous "lift locks" and the railway lock. At the west end of the Trent-Severn Waterway you enter Georgian Bay and the area of "30,000 islands". Here you travel in protected waters that are crystal clear providing visibility down 10-12 feet. There are thousands of beautiful quiet anchorages with almost pristine conditions. Georgian Bay and the North Channel, your next destination, provide some of the best cruising waters in North America. Once you cross the North Channel, you enter the top of Lake Michigan and rejoin those boaters who chose or had to go across Lake Erie.

The Complete Erie Canal Route

If you draw more than 6 feet, your first alternative is to go completely across the Erie Canal and enter Lake Erie at Buffalo, NY. However, to proceed west of Three Rivers, mile 160 of the Erie Canal, you must have your clearance down to 15 ½ feet. The western half of the Erie Canal is rich in history and provides many free stops with water and electric. The downside of going the complete Erie Canal route (or the Welland Canal route) is Lake Erie. Over 240 miles long with few natural harbors, Lake Erie can be a burden to cross. When you stop overnight you must go into man-made harbors and often there is no place to anchor. Thus, you are forced to pay to stay in marinas or yacht clubs. Also, because Lake Erie is so large, you can only move in good weather. The prevailing southwest wind will be on the nose. Crossing Lake Erie does not provide anywhere near the interesting stops and beautiful waters that the Trent-Severn Waterway, Georgian Bay and North Channel provide.

The Welland Canal Route

If you can't go the complete Erie Canal or Trent-Severn Routes, then you will have to go through the Welland Canal. Vessels that draw more than 6 feet and have a clearance of between 15 ½ and 19 feet will have to go this way. Following this route you go north from Three Rivers, mile 160 of the Erie Canal, to Oswego on Lake Ontario via the Oswego Canal. Then you transit Lake Ontario, proceeding over 150 miles west. The same restrictions on weather and ports as those on Lake Erie, apply on Lake Ontario. To add insult to injury, when you get to the end of Lake Ontario, you must go up the Welland Canal Locks. These locks are not pleasure craft friendly. It's not that the operators are unfriendly, rather these locks primarily serve Great Lakes freighters and as a result frequent delays are experienced. In addition, because the currents in the locks are so strong you are required to have at least three adult crewmembers on board while transiting the canal going west. If you are short one or two crew members they can be hired at the lock at the Lake Ontario end, to assist you through the locks. You will need 8 to 12 hours to transit the locks and there is no stopping overnight within the Welland Canal. In other words, once committed, you keep going until you reach Lake Erie at the other end. 

For more information on the height restrictions and choosing the best route for The Great Loop, purchase a printed Skipper Bob Cruising America's Great Loop or purchase a digital version in the Waterway Guide Mobile App.

I think your omission of the Lake Champlain, Montreal, Ottawa route to get to Trent Severn system is skipping some of the unique boating experiences on the "Loop". Carillon Lock, Ottawa Staircase Locks, Rideau Canal, Kingston Ontario just to name a few. The whole experience from Waterford, NY to the entrance of the Trent Severn was some of the best of the "Loop".

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Adventures of Knot Kidd’n

The Great Loop

Exploring North America

A 6,000-nautical mile circumnavigation of the eastern part of North America, the Great Loop takes cruisers through more than 15 states and provinces in two countries, transiting a wide variety of waterways ranging from narrow canals to mighty rivers, wide windswept bays, and four of the Great Lakes. Most people who take their boat on the “Great Loop” spend years, even decades, planning for it.

Not Dustin Kidd from Louisville, Kentucky. It took him just two months from the day he decided to do the Great Loop in his 1989 50’ Chris-Craft Constellation, Knot Kidd’n, to casting off from the dock. And that included talking a friend, Eva Steuerle, into doing the Loop with him.

“I said, “What are you doing for the next year?” Dustin recalled.

He had plenty of boating experience to draw from, however. “I grew up boating from a very young age. My grandparents lived on a lake in Nashville, Tennessee, and had a boat. My family had a boat and we would hit all the lakes in Kentucky,” he said, adding, “We had a houseboat on Lake Cumberland.”

After graduating from the University of Kentucky, Dustin embarked on a demanding 14-year career in the medical devices industry. During that time, he owned a series of boats and often lived aboard one. In 2017, while taking what was originally planned to be a six-month hiatus from his job, he decided he needed a more spacious home than the Hatteras 43 he was living in. Dustin found the pre-owned Chris-Craft “Connie” on the market in Florida, bought it, and cruised it home to Kentucky along the IntraCoastal Waterway, Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway and Ohio River.

Since the route he was transiting is part of the Great Loop, he passed quite a few boats flying the burgee of the America’s Great Loop Cruising Association (AGLCA) from their bow along the way, and became intrigued with the idea of doing the Loop himself. He joined the association’s Facebook page and began researching the voyage. From there, everything fell into place quickly.

On November 17, 2017, Dustin, Eva, and his dog, Steele, left Louisville on Knot Kidd’n , heading back down the Ohio the way he had come two months earlier. While he took some flack from other Loopers, most of whom had waited until they retired to make the voyage, for his short prep time and relative youth, Dustin’s philosophy for the trip was to stay flexible. If something went wrong, he said, “I always had Plan A, B, and C. A was to fix it myself; B was to hire someone to fix it, and C was to sell the boat where it is and go home.”

The Loop route took Knot Kidd’n down the Tenn-Tom to the IntraCoastal Waterway, around Key West and up the Atlantic Seaboard. Most of the voyage went smoothly, but Dustin’s resolve was tested when Knot Kidd’n pulled into Belhaven, North Carolina, for the night. After anchoring, the couple performed a task they had done hundreds of times before during the voyage – Eva lowered the Chris-Craft’s tender, a 10-foot, fiberglass-hull RIB, from the davit while Dustin waited for it on the deck below.

“She kept yelling at me to get out of the way,” he said, adding that was not part of their usual routine. “As soon as I took one step to my left, the cable snapped, the dinghy’s motor hit [the mother boat’s] transom hard, and the tender fell into the water and started to float away.”

Dustin dove in and swam after it. “Eva was freaking out on the flybridge, and there was a storm coming,” he said. He was able to climb into the RIB, but he discovered that the motor had locked up due to the hard impact, so he had to row to shore. Following Plan A, Dustin went up to the nearest house to ask the owner for a 9/16-inch wrench he could use to fix the outboard himself.

As fate would have it, he said, “It turns out she had owned a boatyard and had all the tools in her garage. She told me, ‘Take anything you need as long as you bring it back.’”

The highlight of the Great Loop for Dustin and Eva happened when they reached New York City in July 2018. They had berthed Knot Kidd’n at Liberty Landing Marina on the New Jersey side of the Hudson River, then got up before dawn to take a ferry across to Manhattan. By 6 am, they made it to Rockefeller Plaza and staked out a place outside the studio where the Today Show is recorded, hoping to get on camera and wave to their family and friends back home. When a producer handed them a map of the U.S. so they could mark where they had come from, Dustin drew the Great Loop route and wrote “4,000 miles by boat”. The couple also brought their AGLCA banner.

“When Al Roker came out on the Plaza and said, ‘On a day like today, it would be great to be out on a boat, cruising,’” I knew we were about to be interviewed,” Dustin said. Roker spent over 30 seconds live on the Today Show asking the couple all about their Great Loop experience.

In addition to their “30 seconds of fame”, the Loop also brought Dustin and Eva closer to nature, as they got to see and interact with spectacular scenery nearly every day. One of the most memorable evenings of their voyage took place in the fall of 2018 in Ontario’s Benjamin Islands, at the eastern end of Lake Huron’s North Channel.

“There is this island in the Benjamins they call the ‘Ski Slope’ because it is a granite hill. We had met up with this couple from England who were also doing the Loop. We both anchored and tendered over to the rock island and built a fire,” Dustin said.

That night, Eva looked up from the bonfire and saw what she thought was thick haze hanging in the sky overhead. “It was the Milky Way,” Dustin said. “It was beautiful. We were in awe.”

Knot Kidd’n arrived back in Louisville on October 13, 2018, after a voyage of 333 days and 6,124 nautical miles. In all that time, Dustin had only spent one night off the boat.

After getting re-acclimated to life on land, Dustin had time to think back on their adventure and what he would do differently if he were to do the Great Loop again. He realized that the main thing he would change was his tender. In retrospect, it had been a mistake to stick with the RIB that had come with the Chris-Craft when he bought it. “It was a 2013, 10-foot fiberglass-hull model with a 15-horsepower Mercury motor and had some age to it,” he said. “I had trouble with it from the day I started.”

Investing in a RIB that better fit his needs probably would have the Loop more fun, more comfortable – and saved him a lot of money. Knot Kidd’n logged 268 marina nights versus dropping the hook in 68 anchorages during the voyage. If they had had a tender that was configured differently, they would have anchored out more often and saved on marina fees.

When they were at anchor, Dustin had to use the tender to take his dog, Steele, to shore for walks. Unfortunately, Steele was always uncomfortable riding in the RIB. “With the deep-V floor, it was hard for him to keep his balance,” Dustin said, adding that he wished its hull had had more deadrise as well. “When there was the slightest ripple, water kept coming over the bow. We had to Ziploc our shoes,” he said. “I could have paid for a new tender with the cellphones I lost.”

Dustin said he and Eva also would have taken the time to visit more places in the small boat that the 50-foot Chris-Craft couldn’t navigate. “If [the RIB] had had a center console with a wheel instead of a tiller, I would have explored more,” he said.

After the Loop, he finally decided to upgrade to a new RIB. He mentioned this to a friend, who went to a boat show not long afterward. After visiting the Highfield Boats display, the friend called Dustin. “He said, ‘You have to check out this Highfield Classic 380 with an FCT Steering Console,’” he recalled. In addition to the console, which has a steering wheel, the 12’6” RIB also features Highfield’s signature double aluminum floor, which is flat rather than concave.

“I called the dealer and bought it sight unseen,” Dustin said.

The Highfield Classic 380 was an instant success, and Dustin soon started using it for trailer-boating adventures all over the Louisville area. “Once boating season hit, everyone started saying, ‘Where did you get it? I want one,’” he recalled.

Inspired by this experience, in June 2020, Dustin and his business partner, Bob Missi, opened Bourbon City Yacht Tenders, a Highfield Boats dealership in Louisville. Its mission: Helping Great Loopers to find the right tender before they head out.

“I ask them, ‘What are your goals? What do you want in a tender?’” Dustin says. “On the Loop, your tender is your lifeline. You can’t take it for granted.”

The Great Loop is the “Interstate;” the intersecting waterways are the “Blue Highways” — the rivers, lakes and canals that flow into the main stream. Ron and Eva Stob’s latest book, Great Loop Side Trips: 20 Cruising Adventures on Eastern North America’s Waterways, is the sequel to their highly acclaimed book, “Honey, Let’s Get a Boat…”: A Cruising Adventure of America’s Great Loop.

Great Loop Side Trips: 20 Cruising Adventures on North America's Waterways

Additional information.

A sequel to the Honey, Let’s Get a Boat... This paperback covers adventures aboard a 25-foot trailerable cruiser. Includes page color insert. Illustrated throughout with B&W photographs. 6”x9” 336 pp.  

What is the Great Loop?

The great loop is a continuous waterway that allows boaters to explore eastern north america..

Boating along the Erie Canal, part of the Great Loop (image courtesy of Gladys L. Buzzell).

The Great Loop is a continuous waterway that recreational mariners can travel that includes part of the Atlantic, Gulf Intracoastal Waterways, the Great Lakes, Canadian Heritage Canals, and the inland rivers of America's heartland. Anyone who completes the journey is then named an official ' Looper .'

For a safe and enjoyable trip, there are a few things to consider when traveling the Great Loop—a great amount of time, a boat with less than a five foot draft (recommended) to travel inland waterways, NOAA nautical charts , and a NOAA radio . Along the way, it is possible to visit a number of national marine sanctuaries and estuarine research reserves .

Map showing the Great Loop (image courtesy of Raven Cove Publishing).

How does a boater embark on the Great Loop? If you start in Chicago, continue south in a counter-clockwise direction to take advantage of the river currents that run into the Mississippi River. While a few people stay on the Mississippi all the way to the Gulf of Mexico, most 'Loopers' choose to exit at the Tennessee River to avoid heavy barge traffic on the larger waterway. This path leads to the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, which also flows to the Gulf.

Regardless of the Southern route selected, boaters can float downstream to the warm waters of the Gulf and explore the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary . From there, cruise east on the Gulf's Intracoastal Waterway. While soaking up some Florida sun, visit the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary .

Then travel north up the Intracoastal Waterway and discover the Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary . Continue north on the Intracoastal to New York City. From the Big Apple, it's a straight shot up the Hudson to the Erie Canal. Then head west across to the Great Lakes. Boaters may visit Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary when sailing up Lake Huron and then finally returning back to Chicago.

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Last updated: 04/25/23 Author: NOAA How to cite this article

10 Scenic Road Trips In Arkansas And Their Best Stops

• Arkansas offers a variety of scenic road trip options, including the Boston Mountains Scenic Loop, the Great River Road, and the Sylamore Scenic Byway.
• These road trips showcase the natural beauty of Arkansas, with stops at state parks, hiking trails, vineyards, and historical sites.
• Whether you have 2 days or a week, there is a road trip in Arkansas that can cater to your interests and provide a unique adventure.

Hidden in the Deep South of the US, Arkansas is one of the most underrated but utterly gorgeous states in the US . With delicious southern cooking, natural hot springs, sprawling vineyards, and the only diamond mines in the US, Arkansas has a huge variety of things to explore.

Arkansas, like many of the states in America, is also the perfect destination for a small-scale road trip. Numerous scenic byways and picturesque towns make for nearly endless route options, highlighting both the natural landscapes and cultural highlights that make Arkansas so unique. Check out some of the most scenic road trips in Arkansas and their best stops to enjoy along the way.

Related: 10 Of The Oldest Historical Sites You Can Visit In Arkansas

Boston Mountains Scenic Loop Road Trip

The Ozark Mountains in Arkansas stand in stark contrast to the rolling hills that tend to dominate the South, and their two scenic routes combine to make a perfect road trip route. Following US 71, which was once a stagecoach route, the Boston Mountains Scenic Loop winds through the Boston Mountain range and into Fayetteville.

After stopping to enjoy the wide variety of things to do in Fayetteville , including the biking trails, University of Arkansas, and Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, road trippers will hop on I-49 S for the second half of the trip. Along this stretch, visitors can stop along the hiking trails of Devil’s Den State Park and drive through the only highway tunnel in the state before completing their Arkansas mountain road trip.

About the Boston Mountains Scenic Loop Road Trip

• Best Road Trip Stops: Fayetteville, Alma, Devil’s Den State Park, Ozark Mountain scenic overlooks
• Distance: 93 miles
• Recommended Time: 3–4 days

Great River Road National Scenic Byway Road Trip

The Great River Road is one of the most scenic Fall foliage road trips in the US and a truly stunning Arkansas road trip. Running along the Mississippi River, the Arkansas stretch of the Great River Road National Scenic Byway spans approximately 360 miles of scenic overlooks and riverfront towns.

Designated as a National Scenic Byway for its historical and cultural significance, the Great River Road takes travelers through highlights such as Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Mount Magazine, and Fayetteville. This unique blend of college towns, watering holes, and outdoor regions makes this Arkansas road trip a perfect fit for any kind of adventurer.

About the Great River Road Arkansas Road Trip

• Best Road Trip Stops: Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Mount Magazine, Fayetteville, Arkansas City
• Distance: 362 miles
• Recommended Time: 4–6 days

Sylamore Scenic Byway Road Trip

A testament to the variety of landscapes in Arkansas, the 27-mile Sylamore Scenic Byway explores the rolling hills, rushing rivers, and towering mountains of the state. Beginning in Blanchard Springs Caverns, road trippers can enjoy some of the best Fall foliage spots in Arkansas as they explore the white oak and hickory forests of the area. Visitors can also tour the caverns themselves.

The route then moves towards the Ozark Folk Center State Park, where guests can enjoy learning about pioneer life and engage in crafts and other historically accurate activities. This short Arkansas road trip ends as scenically as it begins, ending at Calico Rock. Here, guests can enjoy the White River or detour to Calico Rock ghost town .

About the Sylamore Scenic Byway Road Trip

• Best Road Trip Stops: Blanchard Springs Caverns, Ozark Folk Center State Park, Calico Rock, Hiking Trails, Biking Trails
• Distance: 26.5 miles
• Recommended Time: 2–3 days

Related: 10 Amazing Trips To Take In The Fall In Arkansas

Hot Springs To Eureka Springs Road Trip

As the only national park in Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park and its soothing namesake hot springs could easily be its own vacation. When added to an Arkansas road trip, it becomes the start of a truly exceptional southern adventure.

The route from Hot Springs, Arkansas, to Eureka Springs spans 245 miles and includes popular stops like the capital city, Little Rock, which has plenty of activities to enjoy , as well as access to numerous hiking and biking trails. In Eureka Springs, road trippers can enjoy natural beauties like the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge or manmade wonders like the Christ of the Ozarks and Thorncrown Chapel.

About the Hot Springs to Eureka Springs Road Trip

• Best Road Trip Stops: Hot Springs National Park, Little Rock, Eureka Springs
• Distance: 245 miles

Mount Magazine Scenic Byway Road Trip

At just 25 miles, the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway may not seem like much of a road trip, until travelers realize that it takes them right to the summit of the highest mountain in Arkansas. Running from Paris to Havana, Arkansas, the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway follows Highway 10 and Highway 309 through the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests.

In addition to reaching the summit of Mount Magazine, observant travelers can stop at other natural wonders like a waterfall near Paris, and spot hang gliders soaring over the landscape.

About Mount Magazine Scenic Byway Road Trip

• Best Road Trip Stops: Ozark National Forest, Ouachita National Forest, Paris, Havana, Mount Magazine Summit
• Distance: 24.9 miles
• Recommended Time: 1–2 days

Related: Ozarks In A Day: How To Explore One Of Arkansas' Best-Kept Secrets

Arkansas Wine Country Road Trip

Arkansas’ Wine Country may not be as famous as destinations like Napa Valley in California, but these scenic vineyards are the perfect backdrop for a Fall road trip in Arkansas. Tontitown Winery, Post Winery, Sassafras Springs Vineyard, Keels Creek Winery, and Wiederkehr Wine Cellars are just some of the top-rated wineries in the state and connect together to create a relaxing and winding road trip through Arkansas.

Other family-owned wineries in Rolund, Altus, and Wiederkehr Village offer additional opportunities to enjoy wine tastings, tour historically significant vineyards, and enjoy the crisp Fall breeze in Arkansas’ wine country.

About the Arkansas Wine Country Road Trip

• Best Road Trip Stops: Tontitown Winery , Post Winery , Sassafras Springs Vineyard , Keels Creek Winery , Wiederkehr Wine Cellars
• Distance: Varies Depending on the wineries Included

Talimena Scenic Byway Road Trip

For those taking scenic road trips through Arkansas specifically to enjoy some fall foliage , there may be no better route than the 54-mile Talimena Scenic Byway, which explores the Ouachita Mountains in Oklahoma and Arkansas.

Tucked in the Ouachita Mountains, travelers will truly enjoy this route, which is considered one of the best road trips in Arkansas for scenery. Drivers can stop by Hot Springs, Arkansas, and the adjacent Hot Springs National Park. This road trip is also an excellent choice for travelers with restless legs, as the scenic byway passes by many hiking trails, particularly as it explores the fall colors in Ouachita National Forest.

About the Talimena Scenic Byway

• Best Road Trip Stops: Hot Springs, Hot Springs National Park, Ouachita National Forest, Oklahoma, Hiking Trails, Fall Foliage
• Distance: 54 miles

Jasper Disaster Road Trip

For those with strong stomachs and a desire to enjoy the mountain views of Arkansas, the Jasper Disaster road through the Ozarks may be the perfect challenge. At only 56 miles along Highway 43, 74, and Byway 7, the road itself may not sound that intimidating on paper, but this mountain road has a secret.

Over the course of those 56 miles, the Jasper Disaster has a staggering 316 turns , making it one of the most technically demanding drives in the state. The reward for such a stomach-churning drive? Some of the most scenic roads in Arkansas. Particularly popular in the Fall, this afternoon drive can quickly become a two- or three-day road trip for those interested in exploring the variety of hiking trails tucked along the side of the windy road.

About the Jasper Disaster Road Trip

• Best Road Trip Stops: Ozark Mountains, Fall Foliage, Hiking Trails, Biking Trails
• Distance: 56 miles

Does the Jasper Disaster not sound exciting enough? Consider attempting the thrilling (and perhaps slightly terrifying) Arkansas Dragon , a 19-mile stretch of road with over 100 switchbacks and plenty of natural scenery.

Pig Trail Scenic Byway

A short scenic loop that starts and ends in Fayetteville, the Pig Trail Scenic Byway is a perfect Arkansas road trip for those who want to quickly hop between the natural wonders of Arkansas and one of its most enjoyable towns.

Looping through the Ozark National Forest, the Pig Trail Scenic Byway is not only one of the best Arkansas road trip routes but one of the best motorcycle routes in the state as well. For those interested in extending this short drive, the Pig Trail also intersects with the 165-mile Ozark Highlands Trail, a challenging multi-day hike that will take adventurous travelers through even more of the most beautiful Fall foliage in Arkansas.

About the Pig Trail Scenic Byway Road Trip

• Best Road Trip Stops: Fayetteville, Ozark Mountains, Fall Foliage, Ozark Highlands Trail, Hiking Trails, Biking Trails
• Distance: 19 miles

Great Highway 65 Road Trip

Another road trip that can span far more than just Arkansas, the entirety of the Great Highway 65 road trip runs from Illinois to Alabama. In Arkansas, I-65 spans just over 300 miles and runs through some of the most popular stops in the state.

I-65 is a scenic experience that is considered a classic Arkansas experience, including many of the highlights of smaller road trips. Traversing the Boston Mountain range, capital city Little Rock, Woolly Hollow State Park, and The Bluebird Ranch Winery , the Great Highway 65 road trip hits all the types of destinations that make the state of Arkansas special.

About the Great Highway 65 Road Trip

• Best Road Trip Stops: Boston Mountains, Little Rock, Conway, Pine Bluff, Woolly Hollow State Park, The Bluebird Ranch Winery, Natural Bridge, Indian Rock House Cave
• Distance: 310 miles
• Recommended Time: 5–7 days

ELECTROSTAL HISTORY AND ART MUSEUM: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• (0.19 mi) Elektrostal Hotel
• (1.21 mi) Yakor Hotel
• (1.27 mi) Mini Hotel Banifatsiy
• (1.18 mi) Elemash
• (1.36 mi) Hotel Djaz
• (0.07 mi) Prima Bolshogo
• (0.13 mi) Makecoffee
• (0.25 mi) Amsterdam Moments
• (0.25 mi) Pechka
• (0.26 mi) Mazhor

Things To Do | Review: ‘A Strange Loop’ is a lively,…

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Things to do | cal poly humboldt closes campus for rest of semester over gaza protests, things to do | review: ‘a strange loop’ is a lively, engrossing head trip in west coast premiere.

Black loves matter!

That’s one of many wry rallying cries in the badass new musical “Strange Loop,” as our hero Usher grapples with being “big, Black, and queer” on the Great White Way.

Silly and cerebral, tuneful and tart, this meta-theatrical musical, tightly directed by Stephen Brackett, sucks us deep into the whirlpool of a quarter-life identity crisis with heartbreaking authenticity.

Usher (the sweetly endearing Malachi McCaskill), an insecure musical theater writer about to turn 26, enters into a Thunderdome-style battle with his own pesky thoughts as he works as an usher at “The Lion King” on Broadway in this gleefully foul-mouthed 100-minute tour-de-fierce, the first musical by a black person to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Usher and six embodied shards of his stream of consciousness, from his daily self-loathing to his ambiguous sexuality (each played by separate actors), are the stars of Michael R. Jackson’s fourth-wall-shattering Tony-winning tuner, which more than lives up to expectations in its raucous West Coast premiere at San Francisco’s American Conservatory Theater, a co-production with the Center Theatre Group in Los Angeles.

Jackson’s cheeky exploration of coming-of-age in a chaotic world where labels are hard to shake and money is hard to make is both wry and genuine, playful and angsty.

He may sneer at Broadway’s middlebrow hucksterism but he also names his mom and dad Mufasa and Sarabi. He may loathe Disney commercialism but it still frames his sense of self, making navigating his plus-size blackness even more complicated. He often escapes from his vortex of self-loathing by channeling his Liz Phair vibe. “Inner White Girl” is one of many gems here.

His church-going parents only complicate matters further. His mom (a moving John-Andrew Morrison, a Tony Award nominee for the role) wants him to come to Jesus while his dad gets drunk and crosses lines into disturbing territory. They both beg Usher to write a Tyler Perry-style gospel musical, which he does with a vengeance in the musical’s blistering “Precious Little Dream” interlude, a showstopper punctuated by revelatory choral lamentation.

Jackson’s wild and wanton juxtaposition of the soulful and the unsettling, the high-brow and the kitschy — nodding from “Golden Girls” to Zora Neale Hurston, from the Chitlin Circuit to Tony Kushner — keeps us riveted to this dizzying funhouse mirror of a musical.

Contact Karen D’Souza at [email protected].

‘A STRANGE LOOP’

Book, music and lyrics by Michael R. Jackson, presented by American Conservatory Theater

Through: May 12

Where: ACT’s Toni Rembe Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco

Running time: 110 minutes, no intermission

Tickets: $25-$137; www.act-sf.org

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Elektrostal Hotel & Travel Guide

Travelocity's Russia hotels database doesn't list any place to sleep in Elektrostal.

When you and your family plan to book Travelocity-listed hotels near this region of Russia, Moscow could be an ideal alternative. It can be located 35 miles (54 kilometers) from Elektrostal. Moscow hotels and apartments include he The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow and Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow .

Once you and your family have got to know Elektrostal, why not explore a little more of the area? The Central Russia district has myriad things to offer visitors. Discover Central Russia's old towns and don't forget to see the region's forests, rivers, canals and mountains. In this corner of Russia adventurous travelers might partake in ice skating and four-wheel driving.

35 miles (59 kilometers) to the west of Elektrostal you will find Garden Ring, where you can spend a little time at the Arena CSKA. Khoroshevskiy rooms include the Kutuzovsky prospekt II and Hotel Bega . If you're looking for an alternative, you can visit Garden Ring, 35 miles (53 kilometers) west of Elektrostal. While you are in Garden Ring, take the time to explore the State Literary Museum. The Hotel Savoy Moscow and Hotel Metropol Moscow are great places to retire for the night.

While in town, don't miss out on enjoying thrills and spills in the company of fellow supporters at an engaging game. Luzhniki Stadium can be found 35 miles (58 kilometers) to the west of Elektrostal. Book a Travelocity-listed hotel right in the thick of the sporting action at the Moscow Suites Noviy Arbat or the LikeHome Apartments Arbat .

Before you and your traveling partner journey to Elektrostal, make sure you browse Travelocity's Elektrostal city guide where you can hear local secrets about the numerous attractions on offer.

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Great Loop Radio: A Side Trip on the Upper Mississippi River

The Upper Mississippi (from Port Charles to the Twin Cities) is a Great Loop side trip that may be considered "the road less traveled". Join us as Dick Heusinkveld shares the details of the side trip he and Louise took aboard their Endeavor Cat, Nine Lives, last summer. Dick joins us from the Ohio River which is this year's side trip to his Great Loop adventure. Learn why you might want to consider taking the time to cruise to Minneapolis/St. Paul in this week's episode.

Great Loop Radio: A Great Loop Side Trip on Lake Superior

This year's Loopers may have time for extra side trips while they wait for the Illinois Waterway locks to reopen. Mike & Deb Hervey, who have made multiple trips to the largest of the Great Lakes, tell you why you should consider cruising Lake Superior. They'll share the details on visiting the south shore and what you'll find there, as well as the more rugged and remote north shore. Join us for more on this amazing side trip to your Great Loop adventure.

Great Loop Link July 2023

View the latest newsletter with in-depth articles about places along the Great Loop route as well as general boating information. It also contains information on AGLCA events and activities as well as news about people on the Loop.

GLL July 2023 Text Only Newsletter

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Nashville TN Guide

Great loop link-february 2022, cruising the bahamas with the lucky me, boston ma area guide, great loop radio: side trip to nashville.

On this week's episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast, join us for a side trip to Nashville. Zyg Durski, a Gold Looper whose home waters are the Cumberland River, shares helpful information for planning a visit to Nashville during your Great Loop. The discussion includes details on navigation, where to tie up or anchor, and what to see and do along the way.

Tennessee River to Knoxville Guide

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