Great Loop Radio Podcast

What makes someone fall in love with the Great Loop? In this episode of Great Loop Radio, AGLCA Director Kim Russo welcomes Gold Looper Roxanne Martin to share how her Great Loop adventure with husband Dan turned into a passion for full-time cruising.

Roxanne reflects on the challenges and unexpected joys of the journey, from adjusting to life aboard and overcoming obstacles to building lasting friendships within the Looper community. She also shares how the experience strengthened her relationship with Dan, helped her discover new skills and confidence, and inspired their continued adventures on the water.

Whether you're dreaming of the Loop, preparing to cast off, or already underway, Roxanne's enthusiasm and perspective are sure to inspire!

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

Keeping your boat in good working order is essential for a successful Great Loop adventure, but which maintenance tasks can you tackle yourself, and when should you call in the professionals?

This week on Great Loop Radio, we're joined by John Fitzgerald of Saunders Yachtworks to discuss practical boat maintenance tips for Loopers. From oil changes and spare parts to sacrificial anodes and preparing for saltwater cruising, John shares advice to help you keep your boat running smoothly. We'll also cover when to seek professional help, how to choose a reputable boatyard, and why planning ahead for maintenance can save you time and frustration along the Loop.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

In this episode of our Story of My Loop series, we talk with Gold Looper Marcel LaFond, who completed the Great Loop primarily solo aboard a 26-foot MacGregor sailboat. Marcel shares how he made the adventure possible on a budget, the challenges of cruising alone while managing Parkinson’s disease, and the importance of knowing when to wait for better conditions. From anchoring along the rivers to the encouragement of fellow Loopers, hear Marcel’s reflections on the unexpected demands, memorable moments, and rewards of completing the Great Loop.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

Great Loop etiquette goes beyond what happens on the water! In Part 2 of our conversation about boating etiquette, AGLCA welcomes back Platinum Loopers Jacque and Tsali Bentley to discuss the unwritten rules and everyday courtesies that make cruising more enjoyable for everyone.

From Docktails and boat cards to marina manners, dinghy storage, and traveling with pets, we cover the little things that make a big difference. We also discuss sharing marina amenities, courtesy flags, social media etiquette, and navigating interactions with fellow boaters.

Whether you're planning your Great Loop adventure or already underway, this episode is full of practical advice for being a considerate cruiser and making the most of the Looper community.

What unwritten rules of boating etiquette have you learned along the way? Share your tips in the comments!

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

Good etiquette can make everyone’s time on the water safer and more enjoyable, but some of the courtesies that come with cruising aren’t always obvious to newer boaters. In Part 1 of this two-part series, returning guests and Platinum Loopers Jacque and Tsali Bentley join us to talk about the unwritten rules and common courtesies Loopers encounter along the way.

Drawing on their extensive experience cruising the Great Loop, Jacque and Tsali share their perspective on etiquette for passing other boats, sharing locks with fellow boaters, running your generator, and more. They offer practical advice for handling these everyday cruising situations thoughtfully, communicating with other boaters, and avoiding some of the common etiquette missteps that can cause frustration on the water.

Whether you’re preparing for your Loop, just getting started, or already underway, this episode offers helpful reminders for being a considerate cruising neighbor and doing your part to make the waterways more enjoyable for everyone.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

What does it really take to replace a boat’s generator with lithium batteries, and can you cruise the Great Loop without relying on a generator?

On this episode of Great Loop Radio, we’re joined by current Looper and AGLCA Admiral Sponsor Cathy Aull, who shares a how the failure of the generator aboard Aspasia, her Meridian 341, led her to rethink the boat’s entire power system.

Rather than replacing the generator, Cathy designed and installed a 48-volt lithium battery system with an inverter, solar and alternator charging. She walks us through the research and calculations behind the conversion, how she determined which power demands were truly essential aboard, and the trade-offs involved—including why running air conditioning continuously wasn't one of her requirements.

Cathy also shares what she has learned now that she’s actively cruising with the system: how she keeps her batteries charged underway and at anchor, how long she can comfortably stay off-grid, what she would do differently, the importance of properly sized wiring, fuses and other safety measures, and why a smaller generator or high-output alternator could still make sense as part of a lithium setup.

If you're considering lithium batteries, trying to reduce generator use, or simply wondering what an alternative power setup could look like aboard a Great Loop boat, this episode offers a real-world look at one Looper's experience, from the initial decision and installation, to actually living with the system underway.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

In this episode of Great Loop Radio, Gold Loopers Ken and Cheryl Pfeiffer share the story of completing America’s Great Loop aboard their custom trawler. They discuss how their boating journey began, what led them to choose and customize their boat, and how they prepared for an extended adventure on the water.

Ken and Cheryl reflect on some of the memorable destinations, experiences, and relationships that shaped their Loop, along with the challenges they encountered and the lessons they learned along the way. They also offer practical advice for future Loopers, including the importance of remaining flexible, preparing thoughtfully, and making the journey your own.

Whether you are actively planning your Loop, searching for the right boat, or simply dreaming about casting off someday, Ken and Cheryl’s story offers helpful insight and inspiration from a couple who turned their Great Loop plans into reality.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

In this episode of Great Loop Radio, we’re diving into Looper Loot, AGLCA’s new loyalty points program designed to reward members for getting involved with the Association and the Great Loop community. We’ll explain how Looper Loot works, some of the ways you can earn points, where to find and track your points, and how you can redeem them for rewards. Whether you’ve already started collecting points or you’re hearing about Looper Loot for the first time, we’ll help you get up to speed and make the most of the program.

We’ll also introduce Ally Russo to the Home Port Crew and learn a little more about her role at AGLCA and the work she’s doing behind the scenes to support members and the Association.

Plus, we’re looking ahead at what’s coming to the AGLCA app, with a preview of some upcoming features designed to make it even more useful while you’re planning and cruising the Great Loop.

Tune in to learn more about Looper Loot, meet Ally, and get a sneak peek at what’s next from AGLCA!

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

You can download the AGLCA app below.

iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aglca/id6476233488
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.landandseasoft.aglca&hl=en_US

Cruising the inland rivers in 2026 will require some extra planning. In this episode of Great Loop Radio, the Home Port Crew breaks down several closures and service changes that could affect Loopers traveling through the region.

We cover the closure at Brandon Road Lock and Dam, the Barkley Lock closure and the alternate route through Kentucky Lock, the loss of recreational vessel service from Logsdon Tug Service, and the continued closure of Hoppie’s Marina. With fewer fuel and service options available, Loopers may need to plan for stretches of up to 250 miles between reliable fuel stops. Since this episode was recorded, the stop-work order affecting the Brandon Road project has been lifted. Loopers should continue monitoring official navigation notices for any updates to the planned construction and closure schedule.

Listen before beginning your inland rivers route, review your current cruising guides, and make sure you have alternate fuel, lock and service plans in place.

Conditions and schedules can change, so always confirm the latest information with the appropriate lockmasters, marinas and service providers before traveling.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Use code LOOP20 for $20 your new membership.

Gold Loopers Bob and Cheryl Gilmore share the story of their Great Loop aboard Silver Lining, a Beneteau Swift Trawler 34. With their boating experience previously limited to a freshwater lake, they explain how they prepared for the journey, chose the right boat, and built the skills they needed along the way.

They share their Loop “by the numbers," along with a candid look at their total expenses and how they balanced marina stays with anchoring. Bob and Cheryl also discuss favorite stops, the realities of planning day by day, lessons learned about boat maintenance and seamanship, and why flexibility became one of their most valuable cruising skills.

Plus, hear their advice for future Loopers, including why you should know your boat, avoid overpacking, and not let some of the Great Loop’s “urban legends” make you nervous about the journey.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Use code LOOP20 for $20 your new membership.

Cruising through downtown Chicago is one of the most memorable experiences on the Great Loop! In this episode of Great Loop Radio, Mark Stevens, General Manager of Navy Pier Marina, joins us to share everything Loopers need to know about visiting the Windy City by boat.

We cover bridge clearance requirements for navigating the Chicago River, where to tie up, possible anchorages, and other important considerations for planning your Chicago stop. Mark also shares tips for enjoying the city, including things to see and do while your boat is docked. From cruising past Chicago’s iconic skyline to spending time exploring one of the country’s great cities, Chicago can be a true highlight of your Great Loop adventure.

Tune in for the information you need to plan your visit and make the most of this unforgettable stretch of the Loop. Often described as the adventure of a lifetime, America's Great Loop boasts a 'low risk, high reward' travel experience. Boaters journey over 5,000 miles around the Eastern part of the United States and into parts of Canada.

Jacque and Tsali Bentley are back for Part 2 of our Great Debates on route choices! This time, we’re tackling more of the decisions Loopers face along the way—from how to cross the Gulf and which side of Lake Michigan to cruise, to navigating New York City and making time for unforgettable experiences like swimming with the manatees.

Jacque and Tsali share their experiences and perspectives on each option, along with the factors that can help you decide what makes the most sense for your own Loop. Because when it comes to the Great Loop, there’s rarely one “right” route, and sometimes the choices you make along the way lead to the best memories.

Whether you're actively planning your route or just curious about the many ways to complete America's Great Loop, this discussion will help you better understand the tradeoffs behind some of the Loop's biggest navigation decisions.

Want to learn more about the Great Loop and connect with thousands of experienced Loopers? Join AGLCA for trusted information, educational resources, and a community that's ready to help every step of the way.

Visit https://www.greatloop.org/join-online.html and use code LOOP20 to save $20 on a new membership.

There are several route choices you'll need to make on your Great Loop... and the perfect choice depends completely on you and your cruising preferences.

In Part 1 of this point/counterpoint episode of Great Loop Radio, Kim Russo is joined by Tsali and Jacque Bentley to discuss some of the biggest route decisions Loopers face. Should you take the Virginia Cut or cruise through the Dismal Swamp? Stay outside or run the New Jersey Intracoastal? Choose the Erie Canal or the Champlain Canal? Every option has its advantages and tradeoffs.

Rather than declaring one route "right," they explore the pros, cons, timing considerations, and personal preferences behind each option. You'll hear different perspectives, practical insights, and the kinds of conversations that help future Loopers decide what fits their own adventure.

Whether you're actively planning your route or just curious about the many ways to complete America's Great Loop, this discussion will help you better understand the tradeoffs behind some of the Loop's biggest navigation decisions.

Want to learn more about the Great Loop and connect with thousands of experienced Loopers? Join AGLCA for trusted information, educational resources, and a community that's ready to help every step of the way.

Visit https://www.greatloop.org/join-online.html and use code LOOP20 to save $20 on a new membership.

Jenny's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSaltySideEye

In this episode of Great Loop Radio, the Home Port Crew shares everything you need to know about AGLCA's upcoming events and how to make the most of your membership.

We cover details on the Fall Rendezvous, including what attendees can expect, who should attend, and why these gatherings are such a valuable part of the Great Loop community. We also introduce AGLCA's first Great Loop Discovery Seminar, a new event designed for those who are just beginning to explore the dream of doing the Great Loop.

In addition, we review AGLCA's recurring members-only virtual events, including mentoring opportunities, and Virtual Docktails sessions that help Loopers stay informed and connected no matter where they are.

Whether you're planning your first Loop, currently cruising, or simply looking for more ways to connect with fellow Loopers, this episode will help you find the events that are right for you and get the most value from your AGLCA membership.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf of Mexico. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Many experienced Loopers consider Georgian Bay to be one of the finest freshwater cruising grounds in the world—and once you've been there, it's easy to understand why.

In this episode of Great Loop Radio, AGLCA member and longtime Georgian Bay cruiser Dale Anderson joins us to share what makes this remarkable region so special. From picturesque waterfront towns and unforgettable anchorages to stunning granite shorelines, crystal-clear water, and endless opportunities for exploration, Dale offers practical advice and insider recommendations to help you make the most of your time in Georgian Bay.

Whether you're planning your first Great Loop or returning for another adventure, you'll come away with a better understanding of what to expect, where to stop, and why so many Loopers consider Georgian Bay a highlight of the journey.

The Great Loop is a 6,000-mile water route that Loopers cruiser aboard their own boats. At its essence, it's a circumnavigation of the eastern U.S. and part of Canada via mostly protected inland waterways. The Great Loop route follows the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, the Chesapeake Bay, and the New York Canals northwards, goes across the Great Lakes, south on the Inland Rivers, and then east Gulf Coast to complete the Loop.

What's the "right" boat for the Great Loop? Ask ten Loopers, and you'll probably get ten different answers.

In this point/counterpoint episode of Great Loop Radio, Kim Russo is joined by Tsali and Jacque Bentley for a lively discussion of some of the most enduring debates in Great Loop boat selection. Is a single engine the smarter choice, or are twins worth the added complexity? Is a flybridge enough, or is a dual-helm boat the better option? Should you prioritize speed or embrace a slower cruising lifestyle?

Rather than trying to declare winners, we'll explore the advantages, tradeoffs, and real-world considerations behind each choice. Along the way, you'll hear differing perspectives, practical advice, and plenty of food for thought.

Whether you're still searching for your Great Loop boat or simply wondering if your current boat is the right fit, this episode will help you think through the compromises every Looper makes—and come away with a clearer understanding of which features matter most for your adventure.

Want to learn more about the Great Loop? How about building camaraderie with others who have done the whole route so you can find out what it's actually like? Join AGLCA for accurate and thorough Great Loop information and access to other members. Find out more at www.greatloop.org/joinus.

If you're considering a side trip on the Rideau Canal during your Great Loop, this episode will help you decide if it's the right adventure for you—and show you how to make the most of it.

Gold Looper and AGLCA Mentor Bill Ogilvie joins us to share his extensive knowledge of his home waters, one of the most scenic and historic inland waterways in North America. Bill explains where the Rideau Canal fits into a Great Loop itinerary, the draft requirements and other considerations for transiting the canal, and what makes this waterway such a favorite among cruisers.

Along the way, he highlights can't-miss stops, shares practical cruising tips, and offers insights that will help you plan a safe, enjoyable visit. Whether you're actively planning to cruise the Rideau or simply curious about what this UNESCO World Heritage Site has to offer, this episode is packed with valuable information from someone who knows these waters exceptionally well.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf of Mexico. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Article about Peter in the Shelter Island Reporter newspaper.: https://shelterislandreporter.timesreview.com/2026/06/01/a-years-voyage-with-help-from-his-friends/

Links to more details about the member benefits discussed:

Member Directory: https://www.greatloop.org/interact/member-listing.html

Harbor Guides: https://www.greatloop.org/great-loop-information/resource-library-search.html?sortBy=recent&information_type=harbor-guide

GPX Files: https://www.greatloop.org/great-loop-route/great-loop-segments.html

Sponsor Offers: https://www.greatloop.org/great-loop-information/sponsors/sponsor-listing.html

AGLCA App: https://www.greatloop.org/great-loop-route/aglca-mobile-app.html