Blue Mind, Bold Heart
05 Dec 2025

Blue Mind, Bold Heart

Mike Tackett wasn’t running away—he was chasing something. After years of building businesses and raising a family, he felt the pull of something more: freedom, clarity, and the wide-open water. So he bought a boat named PATIENCE, convinced his wife to come along, and set out to tackle America’s Great Loop—a 6,000-mile voyage that would test, stretch, and ultimately transform him. In this episode, Mike joins us to share the story behind his memoir, Blue Mind, Bold Heart. He opens up about the storms and stillness, the near disasters and quiet revelations, and the unexpected moments that reshaped how he sees life. With honesty, humor, and a refreshing vulnerability, Mike takes us inside the journey that changed everything—from the rhythm of his days to his sense of purpose. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Is this all there is?” you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Podcast
Members only
01 Dec 2025

Referral card.pdf

This card can be shown to people to help them understand the Great Loop. If you hand it to someone you meet, be sure to include your name on the back of the card. If they join AGLCA and mention you, you'll receive a two-month membership extension free of charge!

Miscellaneous
Members only
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30 Nov 2025

Celebrating the Holidays on the Great Loop

If you are cruising the Great Loop during the holiday season, you might be wondering how to capture familiar traditions aboard your boat. You are away from the routines you once relied on, and your family may be gathered somewhere you are not. Your onboard space is far smaller than a house. But celebrating from the water can be wonderful when you embrace the moment rather than trying to duplicate every detail from life on land.

Great Loop Link Newsletter
Members only
Sponsors' Corner
30 Nov 2025

Sponsors' Corner ~ December 2025

Thank you to all of our amazing sponsors for helping make the 2025 Fall Rendezvous our biggest and best one yet! Also, please help us welcome one of our newest sponsors, Maritime Medicine, helping you stay safe on the water. 

Great Loop Link Newsletter
Members only
GLL Guest Aboard Header.png
30 Nov 2025

Welcoming Guests Aboard During the Holidays

There are countless moments during your Loop when friends and family may want to join you onboard—cruising past the Statue of Liberty, riding across the Big Chute Marine Railway, or taking a side trip into Nashville. But no time draws loved ones more than the holiday season. The desire to gather with family doesn’t disappear just because you’re several hundred miles from home, enjoying docktails under the Florida sunshine.

Great Loop Link Newsletter
Story of My Loop Michele 31' Camano.jpg
22 Nov 2025

Story of My Loop-Michele, 31' Camano Trawler

Solo female Loopers are still rare, but Michele proves it can be done — and done with confidence and grace. This week, she joins us to share the story of her Great Loop completing aboard her 31' Camano Trawler. You’ll be inspired by Michele’s adventurous spirit, practical approach, and refreshingly matter-of-fact attitude toward single-handing one of the greatest boating adventures there is. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

Podcast
Try Before You Buy
14 Nov 2025

Try Before You Buy

Thinking about tackling the Great Loop but not sure if the lifestyle—or the boat—is right for you? Buying a Looping boat is a big commitment, and many future Loopers want a way to try before they buy. In this episode, we talk with three AGLCA sponsors who offer unique ways to experience the Great Loop firsthand—before making that major investment. From joining a Looper who offers cruises aboard their own vessel, to attending “Trawler School” and earning a certification, to chartering along some of the Loop’s most iconic waterways, you’ll discover several hands-on ways to see what Looping is really like. Tune in to explore your options for testing the waters of the Great Loop lifestyle!

Podcast
Members only
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11 Nov 2025

Highlight on AGLCA Sponsors ~ Le Boat

Wish you could try Looping before going all in? Now you can! Check out Le Boat's vacation packages for the Rideau and Trent-Severn Waterways and make 2026 the year you start your Loop!

Members only
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11 Nov 2025

2025 Fall Rendezvous ~ Our Biggest Event Ever!

We moved to The Wharf in part because it can accommodate 100 more people than our previous venue. Even so, we were surprised when the event sold out—and did so within just one week of tickets going on sale!

Story of Our Loop The Boomershines
07 Nov 2025

Story of Our Loop: The Boomershines, 56' Ocean Alexander

This week’s guests, Mark and Cinda Boomershine, didn’t just cruise the Great Loop—they brought their two kids along and turned the entire adventure into a hit YouTube series. Join us as they share their family’s unforgettable journey aboard SeaShine, their 56' Ocean Alexander. You’ll hear how they made the boat their own, the highs and challenges of Looping as a family, and what they learned from seeing America’s waterways together, one mile at a time.

Podcast
Members only
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31 Oct 2025

Choosing Your Path: The Big Bend Route vs. Direct Gulf Crossing

For most Loopers, one of the most anticipated—and sometimes anxiety-inducing—segments of the Great Loop is the crossing from Carrabelle, Florida, to Tarpon Springs. This stretch offers Loopers two distinct options: the Direct Gulf Crossing or the Big Bend Route. Each has its own character, challenges, and rewards. Understanding the differences between these routes will help you make the right decision for your vessel and crew.

Great Loop Link Newsletter
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