Members only
January 2025 Great Loop Link
FROM THE EDITOR'S DECK
Happy New Year from your Home Port Crew!
Many of you know the start of a new year means there is a lot going on ~ Fleet Shirts, Harbor Host of the Year voting, and our advocacy efforts all begin anew each January. We've also got some new virtual events available, but deadlines come quickly, so be sure to read the articles in this issue and make note of upcoming deadline dates.
Arguably, the biggest of our first-of-the-year tasks would be advocacy. AGLCA is part of a coalition of boating organizations that raises funds to engage on issues that could hinder boaters, particularly long-distance cruisers, from enjoying U.S. waterways like the waterways on the Great Loop. AGLCA does not use dues money for these advocacy efforts so we reach out to members annually, allowing you to choose whether you wish to support the initiatives and if so, decide how much you wish to contribute. While the coalition does include other associations, AGLCA is tasked with raising the most funds due to our large number of members. Kim Russo's article explains what we are up against in 2025.
Boating safety is a topic that AGLCA is passionate about and this month, Kevin Williams from AGLCA Sponsor, Blue Tortuga Fitness, shares common safety issues on land that are often more dangerous on your vessel. It's not just about wearing your PFD. Cruise on to Kevin's article for all the details and what you can do to minimize the risks.
You'll notice our wake crossing announcements have taken a new form. We are so excited about this, because now everyone can have a photo and their comments shared (instead of only the three we were able to highlight in the PDF version of Great Loop Link)! For anyone who doesn't submit a photo, we will use a stock photo of the appropriate burgee. Check it out!
We hope you enjoy the new format of Great Loop Link. Let us know what you think!
Admiral Sponsors
In this issue:
Members only
Members only
Members only
Admiral Sponsors
Wake Crossings:
80s Lady
Dan & Roxanne Martin completed their Loop on November 3, 2024 aboard their Chris Craft Catalina 381, 80s Lady.
"What an adventure! We discovered we can do hard things — together. And we discovered we love this cruising lifestyle!
"This adventure was made even more special with so many of our friends & family joining us — from the Bahamas to West Palm Beach (go Astros!). From New York City to the Erie Canal. From the Thousand Islands to the Trent Severn. Sharing this adventure with those nearest & dearest to us was worth the effort.
"The special friends we made along the way are treasures we’ll carry with us always. The crew of 'Amare Vita' greeted us as we pulled into Panama City on Christmas Eve. They were our first Looper friends & we loved our time together 'Loop-frogging'! So many more — 'Jessica Grace', 'Pipe Dream', 'Oyster', 'Walrus', 'Sol Mate', 'Dream Looper', 'UR-N-Heritance', 'Blue Tortuga'…and too many more to count. And wow was it special crossing our wake with our Texas friends aboard 'Cool Beans'!
"And now we head back to Texas — to our families & loved ones who have cheered us on to plan our next adventure!
"Thanks to the AGLCA Homeport crew for all of their resources & support."
ADELANTE
Geoff & Donna Wallace completed their Loop on November 1, 2024 aboard their Catalina 380, ADELANTE.
ALL IN
Randy & Kirsten Simmons completed their Loop on November 12, 2024 aboard their Marine Trader 44 DC, ALL IN.
Blue Odyssey
Chad & Bev Hewitt completed their Loop on December 10, 2024 aboard their Mainship 390, Blue Odyssey.
"We embarked on our Great Loop adventure on January 1, 2024, and proudly crossed our wake on December 10, 2024. What an incredible journey!
"When we began the Loop, it felt daunting—so many challenges ahead. But by taking it one day at a time and embracing the process of learning new skills, we found our rhythm. What once seemed impossible became part of our daily lives. We’re so appreciative of the many resources that helped us along the way: fellow cruisers, the AGLCA community, friendly marina staff, and skilled mechanics. Thanks to all of them, we successfully completed this epic voyage aboard Blue Odyssey, our 25-year-old boat.
"What stands out most to us is the sense of shared adventure. Meeting other Loopers, tackling challenges together, and collaborating on decisions about routes, weather, maintenance, and even entertainment made this a true 'full-time' adventure.
"When people ask us, 'What was your favorite part of the Loop?' it’s hard to choose just one. Each segment had its own unique charm:
• The quaint seaside towns of the East Coast
• The breathtaking drama of New York City
• The rich history of the Erie Canal
• The natural beauty of the Thousand Islands
• The friendly Canadians and park-like locks of the Trent-Severn Waterway
• The rugged splendor of Georgian Bay and the North Channel
• The beaches and lighthouses of Michigan
• The vibrant urban energy of Chicago
• The untamed wilderness of the northern rivers
• The rolling, forested hills along the lower rivers
• And, of course, the tropical resort vibes of Florida and the Keys
"Each segment offered something special, and together, they created a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
Certitude
Congratulations to Elizabeth & Ron, who completed their Loop on October 5, 2024 aboard their Sealine T51, "Certitude".
"Many people spend years preparing for their Loop. Many people research numerous vessels, attend AGCLA events, and begin their travels after planned farewell soirees with family and friends gathered dockside seeing them off. Then there is us.
"We were interested in exploring the Chesapeake Bay, traveling the length of the Erie Canal and the Great Lakes. It was only as we shopped for boats that we learned of the Loop.
"Through shear dumb luck we found 'Certitude' (our lovely British-made Sealine T51) in Iuka, MS and while many Loopers were on Lake Michigan awaiting the completion of lock repairs, we (after completing a survey and mechanical checks of course) decided to set out on 9/30/23. We first traveled north past Land Between the Lakes (LBL) to Nashville, then back through LBL before heading to Chattanooga (where we are full-time house-boaters) to Knoxville.
"Our 8,000+ SM included over five weeks on the Chesapeake, exploring the Erie, and getting to five of the six Great Lakes. Our side trips, however, were some of our favorite explorations and the history taught to us as children came alive during our travels.
"Thankful for the memories made with fellow travelers and locals as we did our best to contribute to the local economy. We stayed almost exclusively at marinas which provided us easier access to explore and fully enjoy the local cuisine. (BTW: Michigan Pothole is my new favorite ice cream flavor).
"For now, we're continuing to count our blessings as we plan our next adventures."
Chasing Sunshine
Allison & Ron Radkay completed their Loop on November 16, 2024 aboard their Endeavour TrawlerCat 44, Chasing Sunshine.
"After 89 days underway, traveling 4984 miles, Chasing Sunshine has crossed her wake where it all started on March 27th in Islamorada, Florida!
"This has been an amazing adventure. We have seen so many beautiful sights, stopped in many, many quaint little towns, saw Broadway plays in NYC and Chicago, had great side trips to Washington D.C. and New Orleans, and enjoyed every single dolphin and pelican show along the way.
"When we bought our boat, we never intended to do the Great Loop, but we are so glad we did. It was definitely the trip of a lifetime, and one I hope to do again someday."
Checkered Past
Kevin & Alicia completed their Loop on December 18, 2024 aboard their Cutwater 32 CB, Checkered Past.
Checkmate
Congratulations to Michael, who completed his Loop on December 11, 2024 aboard his Meridian 391, Checkmate.
"It definitely was an adventure of a lifetime!"
Christopher P
Bill & Adrienne Palmer completed their Loop on December 1, 2024 aboard their 2004 Mainship 430, Christopher P.
COMPASS ROSE
Tsali & Jacque Bentley completed their SECOND Loop on October 26, 2024 aboard their Mainship 400, COMPASS ROSE.
Cool Beans
Chris & Lisa Bean completed their Loop on November 3, 2024 aboard their Mainship 390, Cool Beans.
"Our Loop journey started in Kemah, Texas on Valentines Day 2024, and we started the actual Loop on March 3rd in Dauphin Island, Alabama where we crossed our wake on November 3rd - exactly 8 months later! We traveled almost 6,000 miles through 19 states, 2 countries and 3 Great Lakes - all along the way marveling at the beauty and majesty we saw from our very own boat. Each area we traveled was unique and special - it’s hard to even pick a 'favorite' as each one gave us a different appreciation for their region. We especially enjoyed the Hudson River, as well as the Erie Canal and every part of Canada and Michigan. We met some amazing Loopers along the way - for those we met once, at a docktails or at a marina, we are so happy to have met you and shared a few encouraging words. For those we traveled with, we will never forget you and the amazing things we experienced along the way, and will cherish the time we spent together. We are proud of all that we have accomplished and the fact that we did it together as a team taught us that we can do just about anything if we put our minds to it! Our emotions range from joy, pride and even a little sadness now that we have completed the journey. It was an adventure of a lifetime and we are grateful to all of our family and friends for their support along the way."
Copacetic Too
Allen & Rosalie Borgardts completed their Loop on September 12, 2024 aboard their Mainship 430, Copacetic Too.
"We did it!! We crossed our wake & completed the American / Canadian Great Loop!
"7,000+ miles, 100+ locks, 3 countries, 14 states, 2 Mainships 🛥️, 3 granddaughters and 1 grandson 🥰 🎊
"Yesterday marked a significant milestone in our 3-year journey on America’s Great Loop…we crossed our wake in Iuka, MS and became GOLD LOOPERS.
"Thank you to all the wonderful friends & family who supported us along the way! We definitely gained a boating family.
"Special thank you to Charlie McVey & his better half, Robin, for all their help, advice and being the best traveling companions ever!"
Crimson Tug
Dan & Tanya Denver completed their Loop on October 21, 2024 aboard their 2006 American Tug AT-34, Crimson Tug.
DeTour
Wendy & Colin Campbell completed their SECOND Loop on August 8, 2024 aboard their Camano 31, DeTour.
Echo's Too
Walt & Elana McGregor completed their Loop on October 1, 2024 aboard their Beneteau Antares 11 Fly, Echo’s Too.
Endless Somers
Bernard & Susan Somers completed their Loop on July 7, 2024 aboard their Mainship 390, Endless Somers.
"Arrived at Farley Marina, crossing our wake after a year and nine days of Looping with the AGLCA. How was it you ask? No words to describe but I’ll try…… unforgettable, more and better than expected, challenging, amazing! So happy we did it, and because of my captain we did it well!!!!! Bernie, Best Captain."
Escapade
Congratulations to Brenda & Wally, who completed their Loop on August 20, 2024 aboard their Carver Voyager 530, "Escapade".
"What an adventure it has been…the experience defies my ability to capture it all into words. Without a doubt, the things we’ve seen and the people we’ve met along the way made this epic adventure so very special. Boating is an instant community and we have made lifelong friends on the Great Loop.
"Being retired, we had the ability to slow down and do the Loop over a 2½ year period, so the 389 days were not consecutive. We took 2 long breaks within that 2½ year period. Even at that, I will say that the Loop was not a vacation – even though we spent money like it was, LOL! The Loop is a lifestyle…and one I am now wondering if we will ever replicate again.
"The number one question I get from curious folks is what was our favorite place(s)? Such a hard question because every part of the Loop was amazing but different. From the low country in Georgia to the beautiful Hudson River, the historic Trent Severn Waterway to the inland river system – each experience was different and remarkable in its own way.
"The most difficult part of the Loop from my point of view was the constant planning, mostly around the weather and wind. It’s a huge part of boating SAFELY and it's called pleasure boating for a reason. Make a bad decision on a dicey weather day and it quickly becomes a slog that isn’t fun anymore. Having a Go-No-Go plan and sticking to it swerved us well.
"Ask my husband, I think he would say the most difficult part of Looping for him was the ongoing maintenance and upkeep on the boat. Using a boat recreationally is a very different endeavor than living and traveling on a boat. Boats are complicated machines that require constant TLC.
"389 days onboard, 198 days underway and over 5,500 miles cruised!!! Escapade used approximately $15,723 worth of fuel and marinas stays cost us over $26,000 which really equate to about the same spend we would have living on land in a house!
"All that aside, it was a trip of a lifetime which we are so grateful to have been able to do. We also really appreciate all the support from the AGLCA and all of the amazing people we met along the way. It really is the trip of a lifetime!"
Full Circle
Congratulations to Dan & Mary, who completed their Loop on September 5, 2024 aboard their 26' C-Dory Venture, Full Circle.
Glorious Dei
Thad & Cindy Harvey completed their SECOND Loop on September 19, 2024 aboard their Gulfstar 44MC, Glorious Dei.
Good Intentions
Don & Lisa completed their Loop on December 18, 2024 aboard their Mainship 390, Good Intentions.
JennaDi
Dan & Diane Hartwig completed their Loop on November 15, 2024 aboard their 30’ Jeanneau NC895, JennaDi.
Jessica Grace
Shane & Amy Spencer completed their Loop on December 8, 2024 aboard their Searay 390, Jessica Grace.
"What an amazing, educational and challenging experience of our lifetime. Over the past 10 months, we adapted to the ripples of this lifestyle, learning to embrace each wave of challenges and being thankful for the relaxing sunshine and cooling breezes, as we embraced more life with less. Greatly appreciated the support provided by AGLCA, friendships of fellow Loopers and helpful marinas/communities along the way. It's either 'GO or NO GO' and you get to decide!"
Knot R O'KY Home
Greg & Lisa Batts completed their Loop on December 9, 2024 aboard their Marlow 57e, Knot R O'KY Home.
"For years, navigating The Great Loop was our dream—a dream that was always delayed by the demands of our summer business. The long hours, the constant responsibilities and the sense that 'next year' would be the right time.
"Then everything changed.
"Michael, my brother, passed unexpectedly while I was working 18-hour days, six days a week in the heat of the summer, building the last campsites at the Ridge. His loss was a wake-up call. It reminded us that life is precious, that tomorrow is never promised and that dreams should not wait.
"Michael’s legacy inspires us every day to live life fully and to embrace the journey ahead.
"Did you know that Lake Barkley isn’t landlocked? From here, you can set sail on an epic adventure, connecting to the Mississippi River near St. Louis, cruising to Chicago and beyond to the Great Lakes. From there, the Loop continues through the Erie Canal, down the East Coast, into the Gulf of Mexico and back again—more than 6,000 miles of waterways filled with beauty, discovery and unforgettable memories.
"Don’t let your dreams stay on hold. If you’ve ever dreamed of navigating The Great Loop, there’s no better time to start than now.
"Your adventure awaits—are you ready to chart your course?"
La Gypsie
Eric & Kathleen Favier (with Moose and Ro) completed their Loop on November 25, 2024 aboard their Navigator 4800 Classic, La Gypsie.
"It’s been truly an amazing journey… an adventure filled with excitement, thrills, boredom, terror, stress, joy, WORK, happiness, love and VINO! Plus, the people we met along the way is what made the trip extra special… as well as all the beautiful nature, sites and towns of our great country. Although all the bars, breweries and distilleries we visited along the way did help put more smiles on after those long cruising days."
Lady Z
Zulma & Carlos Capaz completed their Loop on November 21, 2024 aboard their Sea Ray MY40, Lady Z.
"America's Great Loop was truly an adventure of a lifetime that we will never forget. We met some amazing fellow Loopers along our travels and some will remain friends forever. We are grateful for the support of our family and friends. Looking forward to our next adventure."
LaLa III
Duncan & Ali Hasell (along with Tito!) completed their Loop on December 8, 2024 aboard their Mainship 430, LaLa III.
Livin The Stream
Larry & Martha Klein completed their Loop on September 24, 2024 aboard their Carver 4227, Livin The Stream.
"We learned something new every day about weather, history, geography, tides and ourselves. The Loop was not a Caribbean cruise, it was a lot more work and stress than we imagined, we proved we can do hard things. Was it worth it? Yes! It was an amazing 383-day adventure away from our dirt home, children and grandchildren, no regrets! Our takeaway is: we have a renewed faith and belief in the amazing people, Loopers and locals, of the United States and Canada. Take the time to invest in chatting with and getting to know people from all walks of life, it will change you. If we can do it, so can you! Thank you to the Home Port Crew and all our fellow Loopers we met along the way. There are tall ships, and small ships, and ships that sail the sea. But the best ships are friendships, and may they always be."
Monarch
Abram James Perry completed his Loop on October 20, 2024 aboard his Mad River Canoe, Monarch.
Naut Lost
Congratulations to Russ & Jamie Dykstra (and Kimi!) who completed their Loop on December 8, 2024 aboard their 50' Navigator Classic, Naut Lost.
"What an adventure! The Loop provided a great kick-off to retirement by forcing us to expand our comfort zone and work together to cross our wake. The diversity of experiences, people, geography and challenges is truly amazing and what a blessing to have the opportunity!
"Thanks to the homeport crew and AGLCA for the structure and support that made the trip more enjoyable. Cant wait for our next adventures on Naut Lost!"
Nauti Savages II
Greg & Kay Daugereau completed their Loop on November 25, 2024 aboard their Carver 404, Nauti Savages II.
Northern Lights
Don & Cindy Engen completed their Loop on November 23, 2024 aboard their Mainship 400, Northern Lights.
"Finished our first Loop on Saturday Nov 23, 2024 started our second Loop on Sunday Nov 24, 2024. We love our Mainship, best boat ever for the Loop! Thank you to all of our Looper friends and AGLCA for their support on this great adventure."
Novella
Meriah & Evan Blakley completed their Loop on November 18, 2024 aboard their 1983 O’Day 25, Novella.
"The Loop is about sleeping alone in quiet starlit coves. It is the courage to head into open water without knowing exactly what is out there. It is the camaraderie forged with crews following a similar course. It is sacrificing ideal comfort for the sake of a dream always held near. It is about getting by with just enough, and learning you never needed so much in the first place. All of the above is true regardless of the price of your vessel.
"Every adventure must have a beginning and an end, and the Loop offers a clear goal to those who would otherwise be restless with a life of aimless cruising. There is a sense of purpose that inspires progress, driven by the constant need to press onward. Still, it's the beginning that is the most important part.
"So many people talk about their dream but never commit to the course required to see it materialize. If your dream is the Loop, don't waste your years saving for the 'perfect' vessel. Go now. Adventure is for everyone."
Odyssey
Congratulations to Kurt & Susan, who completed their Loop on December 23, 2024 aboard their Island Packet 380, Odyssey.
"A high-mile Loop adventure. We started a reverse Loop in 2019 from Chicago. We headed through the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway and worked our way south to the Bahamas. We were enjoying winter in the Bahamas when the pandemic hit. We decided to put the Loop on hold and head home. Because of the uncertainty at the time, we decided to take the Erie Canal route instead of the originally planned upstream river system.
In 2024, we left Chicago again to complete the Loop and head back to the Bahamas for another winter.
We finally crossed our wake in Alice Town, Bimini, Bahamas.
Out of the Blue
Vern & Lisa Sessler completed their Loop on November 14, 2024 aboard their Sundeck 580, Out of the Blue.
"The Loop has been an amazing adventure! Each day’s journey was a new experience that brought us to a different place to explore whether it was a small town, a large city, or a peaceful anchorage. The Loop brought us a greater awareness of the beauty of the U.S. and Canada. We met many great people along the way and developed new friendships. It has been an adventure of a lifetime!"
Out of the Blue
Paul & Julie Murray completed their Loop on November 3, 2024 aboard their Cruisers Cantius 42/43, Out of the Blue.
"We found the Great Loop to not only be a great boating experience, but also a chance to explore many towns and cities that we might not otherwise ever see, and we met a lot of great people along the way. Some will remain lifelong friends."
Paradise Bound
John & Donna Pawlik completed their Loop on December 9, 2024 aboard their Cruisers Yacht 4050, Paradise Bound.
Passport
Debi O'Leary & Paul Ferris completed their Loop on September 16, 2024 aboard their Mainship 350 Trawler, Passport.
"We 1st attempted to navigate the Loop leaving Mackinaw City in September of 2022. We had a rough start on Lake Michigan due to weather and some mechanical issues with the boat. On September 28th, after three weeks on Lake Michigan, Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida. Knowing that it was going to impact Loopers, we decided to turn back for Mackinaw. It was an extremely hard decision to make, but it turned out to be the right one. When we left for the 2nd time in September 2023, we were more confident with the boat and with ourselves and much of Florida was recovering from Ian.
"What a great experience we had! We learned to trust our instincts and take our time. We met so many wonderful people along the way (boaters as well as locals) and visited places we probably would have never otherwise seen. We especially loved the inland rivers and Canada. One of the best things about the Loop is that you can make the trip your own; create your own timeline and visit the places you want to go to. We highly recommend it!"
PATIENCE
Michael & Joanne Tackett completed their Loop on November 15, 2024 aboard their 2003 Silverton 39MY, PATIENCE.
"Our Great Loop Story on PATIENCE: 5,597 miles, 285 days, 131 stops, 124 locks, 17 States, 2 Countries. Those are the numbers, but not the story. Our Loop was about making new friends, of unimaginable scenery, exploring new cities, the exhilaration of highs and lows, overcoming fear and anxiety, growing, achieving a goal and rediscovering passion for fresh experiences and challenges. We humbly join the small fraternity of boaters that truly understand what it means to see a Gold AGLCA Burgee flying."
PROOST
Congratulations to Frank & Sandy, who completed their Loop on December 23, 2024 aboard their 45 North Pacific Pilothouse, "PROOST".
"We did the ‘Slow Looper’ experience and were able to do some great side trips like D.C., three months on Lake Michigan and Green Bay, Chattanooga, and Nashville. We started the 3 seasons as one of the first Loopers in the area and ended as some of the last! Learned so much USA history and were in awe of the engineering marvels along the way! Hands down a trip of a lifetime!!
"April 18, 2022 - December 23, 2024:
- 555 days on board
- 1225 hours underway
- 7838 miles traveled
- 6.4 mph average
- 2190 gallons of Diesel
- 3.9 mpg
- $1.32 Diesel cost per mile
- Over 150 locks
- 18 states, 1 D.C., and two Canadian (Ontario and Quebec) provinces
- Friends met and experiences made: priceless."
River Rat
Bernie McGuire crossed his wake on October 28, 2024 aboard his Ranger Tug R27OB, River Rat.
S.S. Minnow
Brian Speicher & Barbara Siegel completed their Loop on December 7, 2024 aboard their Fountaine Pajot Summerland 40, S.S. Minnow.
Sans Souci
Lance Behymer completed his Loop on November 10, 2024 aboard his 40’ Marine Trader Sundeck, Sans Souci.
"Departed March 28. Up the East coast, out to Mystic and back. Across the Trent Severn Waterway. Went hard in North Port, MI for two months, while going to Africa. Back to the boat on September 13. Down west side of Lake Michigan and the river system. Solo boat Gulf Crossing and then back to start Riviera Dunes Marina, Palmetto, FL."
Schuyler
Peter Searles completed his Loop on November 15, 2024 aboard his Ranger Tug 31CB, Schuyler.
Scratchy
Kim Whitaker & Trish Phillips completed their Loop on September 29, 2024 aboard their 34’ Sabre, Scratchy.
"Beautiful country; great side trips. 5800 miles , 4 months. 3rd trip for the boat."
Seahawk
Rick & Susan Vierkandt completed their Loop on November 13, 2024 aboard their 34’ PDQ Passagemaker, Seahawk.
"The Great Loop was an adventure of a lifetime! Our non-plan plans and non-schedule schedules afforded us the opportunity to visit family and friends along the way, in addition to meeting many wonderful Loopers and interesting travelers and locals! We were in awe of the stunning wilderness and abundant wildlife, and especially of the foresight of our founding fathers to develop the extensive waterway infrastructure, while protecting and preserving its beauty. We need to continue to advocate for this vital 'connective tissue.'
"We have often compared this adventure to The Amazing Race, except that the Loop is much longer and is not a race to the finish line. It is, however, a series of daily challenges that requires working together, developing flexibility and extreme perseverance. Circumstances like spending three months in Key West replacing a fuel tank, navigating weather windows- dodging hurricanes Helene and Milton, and coordinating countless locks, bridges and dockages, challenged us to consistently pivot and manage expectations. Early on we decided our motto for the journey was, 'Don’t think about what we’re NOT doing, focus, be present and enjoy what we ARE doing!' That served us well - and we understand now why folks do the Loop multiple times! So much to see and do!
"We are extremely grateful to our family and friends who held the fort while we were gone, those who endured our long homesick calls, and those who provided moral and technical support and encouragement along the way! Thanks also to AGLCA for providing the resources and training to equip us for this journey, and to fellow Loopers for generously sharing their expertise on the fly.
"While we don’t really know what re-entry looks like for us yet, or what our next adventure might be, we are confident that after this remarkable experience, whatever tomorrow’s challenge may be, we will figure it out- and it will be AMAZING!!!"
Shamrock
Mick & Dawn Murphy (with pirate pup, Hank) completed their Loop on November 13, 2024 aboard their Mainship 430 Sedan, Shamrock.
"On November 13, 2024, aboard Shamrock, we crossed our wake, concluding an unforgettable 11-month adventure that began on December 16, 2023.
"Throughout this journey, we have been privileged to experience the stunning shorelines and rich cultures across the United States and Canada. Whether marveling at natural wonders, discovering hidden gems, or immersing ourselves in the warmth of local communities, the Great Loop has been as much about the destinations as the journey itself.
"Equally significant has been the companionship of fellow Loopers and boaters. Traveling extensively with dear friends and playing 'Loop frog' with others, we have formed bonds that will last a lifetime. This shared camaraderie has truly enriched our experience, proving that the people met along the way are as memorable as the places visited.
"We are currently taking a brief pause at Kingfisher Bay Marina in Demopolis and look forward to continuing our explorations with plans to head south to Florida after Christmas. We are excited to revisit familiar waters and discover new ones. While the future remains open—whether to embark on another Loop, continue cruising, or return to land life—this achievement will always remain a cherished milestone.
"The completion of the Great Loop is not just a testament to navigation or perseverance; it is a celebration of embracing life’s possibilities, pursuing adventure, and treasuring every moment of the journey."
Snow Goose
Paul Whelan & Cheryl Ulmer completed their Loop on December 3, 2024 aboard their Nordic Tug 37, Snow Goose.
Stacie Lynn
Congratulations to Tracy & Stacie, who completed their Loop on October 13, 2024 aboard their 41' Lafitte Skiff, Stacie Lynn.
"We had a great time doing the Loop aboard our shrimp boat; it proved to be the perfect boats for us. We enjoyed making many friendships along the way, and we're looking for forward to doing the Loop again."
Steel Dreamin
Tony & Jenny James completed their Loop on December 16, 2024 aboard their Greenline 45 Fly, Steel Dreamin.
"This was the boating adventure of a lifetime! I was so excited, that I stopped to put my gold burgee on when we immediately crossed our wake!"
Texas Trails
Eric & Muffet Frische completed their Loop on November 13, 2024 aboard their 36’ Kadey-Krogen Manatee Trawler, Texas Trails.
"Our Great Loop voyage was an amazing 11 months and 6500 miles full of daily adventures, new friendships, cherished memories, and the incredible beauty in nature only experienced from the water. The breathtaking vistas our country gifts us with along the waterways are some of the most gorgeous we’ve seen, and the people along the way - both Loopers and the townsfolk - made it an experience we will forever treasure. The 'Looper bond' is strong, and we are so thankful for all the new life-long friendships we've made along the way! Cheers to the Fleet of 2024!"
The Good Stuff
Congratulations to Alex, Rita, & Daniel, who completed their Loop on December 29, 2024 aboard their Navigator 4800 Classic, The Good Stuff.
The Mistress
Tony DeWitt completed his Loop on November 22, 2024 aboard his Grand Banks 36 Classic, The Mistress.
The Next Chapter
Jack Fitzpatrick & Pat Sizemore completed their Loop on November 15, 2024 aboard their 40’ Riviera Aft Cabin, The Next Chapter.
Tranquility
Don & Suzy Kahn completed their Loop on November 21, 2024 aboard their 35' Beneteau Swift Trawler, Tranquility.
Tranquility II
Brett & Susan Scanlon completed their Loop on June 12, 2024 aboard their 42 Bristol Trawler, Tranquility II.
UPSIDE
Doug & Linda Brown completed their Loop on October 10, 2024 aboard their 2010 SeaRay 580 Sedan Bridge, UPSIDE.
Ur-N-Heritance
David & Gaye Shockley completed their Loop on November 1, 2024 aboard their Bayliner 4550, Ur-N-Heritance.
"We did it!
"We’d like to think we’ve done it all but realize now that we’ve only taken a peek into what’s out there. In the last year, we’ve traveled 7,970 miles, 3 countries, 18 states, 120 locks and one pretty scary storm. To say we’re blessed is an understatement!
"My husband is the absolute most amazing captain and his wife (first mate) is just as amazing (oh, that’s me lol)…what a team we made!
"We’ve been asked several times, “what was your favorite part?”…all of it!!! The new life long friends we’ve made along the way is a blessing in itself!
"Special thanks to Don and Kathy Davis 'MoWhisky' for everything from sharing your knowledge and experiences, charts, ice cream socials…but mostly for becoming such special friends…we love you! The list is endless and the memories are forever! Thank you everyone for making this trip such a memorable experience!!!"
Viatori
Cam & Jennifer Canup completed their Loop on December 3, 2024 aboard their 2003 Carver 444, Viatori.
"Crossing your wake on America's Great Loop is an achievement for anyone, no matter the route or time it took to complete. Our experiences have made us better boaters, our new friendships have made us better people. When we first set out, everything was unknown, it was late in the season, and we were alone. After a lengthy pause and a restart, we ended up in the middle of the pack. Taking the opportunity to learn from all those we met, it wasn’t until Ottawa, Illinois that we realized, we are not newbie boaters anymore. We enjoy sharing our knowledge and experiences, good or bad, if it helps others along the way. Flying ‘The Gold’ not only means an accomplishment, but an immediate recognition that if you have questions, we may be able to answer them for you. Thanks to all the people we have met along the way, thanks to the AGLCA, our family and friends and all the others that have helped us to reach this milestone. The big question now is, what is next? Honestly, we are not sure, but whatever our feline overlord decides, we will execute her orders, head to the edge of the earth with a full compliment of Cherry Dr. Pepper, and John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt in our hearts, brains and loudhailer. We look forward to seeing everyone again and meeting new Loopers along the way as we start to plot our next adventure aboard Viatori."
Wild Goose
John & Kim Chant completed their Loop on August 10, 2024 aboard their Sea Ray 415 Aft Cabin, Wild Goose.
"This was an amazing and challenging trip. There was a time in Florida we were so homesick we were ready to quit. We have a very large and close-knit family with 7 grandchildren (with number 8 due before we would get home) living within our community. But we looked out the front window and said home is that way. We met so many great people made lifetime friends with many: Larry & Martha on Livin The Stream, Greg & Mary on Roamin Holiday, Wes & Amy on Toscana, Jen & Tom on Sol Mate, but especially Gary & Lynne on Good Day Sunshine whom we traveled with from Yorktown to their wake crossing in Grand Haven. This is a life-changing adventure I would never tell anyone not to do it."
Yooper Too
Brian Helminen completed his Loop on June 12, 2024 aboard his Nordic Tug 32NT, Yooper Too.
Commander and Lieutenant Plus Sponsors
Upcoming Events
Lieutenant Sponsors
