Members only
July 2026 Great Loop Link
July is a special month for all of our U.S. and Canadian Loopers. July 1 is Canada Day, and July 4 is Independence Day—two important national celebrations that Loopers have the unique opportunity to experience from the water. If you missed last month's feature on the America 250 celebrations throughout the New York waterways, be sure to check it out in the June issue of The Great Loop Link.
While you're making your way north, don't miss the chance to join in the Canada Day festivities, either. From parades and community festivals to fireworks, live music, and plenty of delicious food, it's the perfect excuse to come ashore and celebrate with our neighbors to the north. To help you make the most of your Canadian cruising, Malissa Marsden returns with another edition of One Bite at a Time, highlighting some of the must-try foods you'll encounter. Some, like butter tarts, have become legendary among Loopers and seem to spark discussion every summer. Others—such as Scotch eggs—may be completely new to you. Either way, be sure to bring your appetite!
If you've been following our step-by-step Great Loop planning series, you'll know we've reached Step 5—we're officially halfway there! Now it's time to get serious about finding your Loop boat. Even if you've been casually browsing listings, this is the stage where your research becomes more focused. Not sure where to begin? We can help. Our sponsors offer a wealth of expertise and resources to guide you through the process. Take advantage of the knowledge available, and before long you'll be making an offer on the boat that's just right for your Great Loop adventure.
Our Not Your Average Looper series also returns this month with a story many of us can relate to. What do you do when you're faced with a health diagnosis that is manageable today but likely to progress over time? After the initial shock, the choices you make can profoundly shape the years ahead. Kim Russo sits down with soon-to-be Looper Ashley Ellis to discuss her unexpected diagnosis at age 40 and how she chooses to live her life.
As always, don't forget to check out this month's Wake Crossings. There's nothing quite like celebrating fellow Loopers as they complete their Great Loop adventures—and imagining the day you'll make your own crossing.
In this issue:
Members only
Members only
Members only
Admiral Sponsors
Wake Crossings Reported in June:
Bliss
Congratulations to Paul, who completed his Loop on April 13, 2026 aboard his Monk 36 Trawler, Bliss.
"I remember well the feeling when my trip began. What am I getting myself into? Turns out it was the adventure of a lifetime. Traveling 5,600 miles, mostly single-handed, at age 74, was a challenge I gladly embraced. Like many people have mentioned before, the Loopers you meet were the high point of the trip. The help and encouragement I received were exceptional. If I were 10 years younger, I may well have continued around again."
Cady Girl
Congratulations to Don & Jean, who completed their Loop on May 16, 2026 aboard their 45' Carver Californian, Cady Girl.
"As our friend, Lori said, 'WE LOOPED THE LOOP!'
"Way back when, in March 2024, we started America's Great Loop from Lambs Marina in Jacksonville. On Saturday, May 16th of this year, we crossed our wake by returning to Lambs Marina!
"In actuality, we made the trip in roughly 13 months. We took a 3-month trek in 2024, a 7-month trek in 2025, and 3-months this year. Over 6,000 total miles. We docked at marinas most often, but enjoyed anchoring, especially in Canada.
"Boy, were we novices when we started out. Every time we returned from home, we had to relearn the electronics. Pretty soon, however, we had our start-up and shut-down routines down pat. Usually, I did the heavy lifting of the fenders (my kettle balls), and threw the lines to the dock hands as Don pulled Cady Girl into or away from the dock.
"The locks were probably the most fun, and sometimes frustrating, along the way! We went through locks in the Erie Canal, the Oswego Canal, the Trent-Severn Waterway in Ontario, the U.S. inland river system, and Florida.
"We also passed under every kind of drawbridge imaginable, my favorite being the Bascule bridges. Cady Girl navigated through depths of 3 (ugh) to 600 feet, and waves from 0 - 10 feet (double ugh).
"We met people from Canada, New Zealand, Australia, England, France, Germany and, of course, many from the USA.
"The best beaches were in the West Coast of Florida and Michigan. White sand and clear blue/green water.
"If anyone out there is thinking of doing the Loop - DO IT!"
CAT in the Hatt
Congratulations to Todd & Betsy, who completed their Loop on April 8, 2026 aboard their Hatteras 52 Sport Deck, CAT in the Hatt.
"We began our incredible journey on April 4, 2024, in Stuart, FL. After a year-long pause in Southport, NC, we officially crossed our wake on April 8, 2026.
"The end of our Loop doesn't mean our boating adventures are over. We look forward to continuing to explore new destinations and revisit some of our favorite Loop stops aboard CAT in the Hatt.
"The Looper community is truly amazing, and we hope to see many of you out on the water in the years ahead!"
D DOG
Congratulations to James, who completed his Loop on June 15, 2026 aboard his 1981 Albin Trawler, D DOG.
Dragon The Line
Congratulations to Jerry & Nan, who completed their Loop on May 29, 2026 aboard their Carver 444, Dragon The Line.
Eclipse
Congratulations to Tom & Fran, who completed their Loop on May 24, 2026 aboard their Tiara F44, Eclipse.
GENANSI
Congratulations to Robert, who completed his Loop on June 3, 2026 aboard his Ranger Tug R29 CB, GENANSI.
"In July 2024, I took delivery of the Genansi in Annapolis and brought her home to my marina in Prescott, Ontario, on the St. Lawrence River. From there, I set off solo again at the beginning of last August. The Loop has been an extraordinary adventure, far exceeding my expectations. I’ve visited incredible places and learned so much about American history, all while meeting wonderful people along the way!"
Happy Hour
Congratulations to Sharon & Frank, who completed their Loop on April 20, 2026 aboard their 1984 Uniflight 45, Happy Hour.
"I know everyone said it would be emotional, but we didn’t fully understand what that meant until we were right in the middle of it.
"And just like that… we became Gold Loopers. Even now, it doesn’t feel quite real.
"We bought Happy Hour on August 30, 2011, with dreams of one day doing the Great Loop. Fifteen years of renovations, planning, dreaming, and life happening in between finally led to the day we cast off the lines and turned someday into Day One.
- 363 days of living, learning, exploring, and making memories.
- 156 stops.
- 273 boat movements.
- 757 hours underway.
- 6,606.2 statute miles.
- An average speed of 8.7 miles per hour.
- And memories that will last the rest of our lives.
"As we returned into the Carolina Beach Basin, boats at The Moorings started blowing their horns. Ramble On, Toscana, Galene, Chillin’ The Most, and Roam were all there cheering us in. My sister was standing on the dock recording the moment, and Shelly Marie had gone completely overboard in the very best way with balloons, fruit, chicken salad sandwiches, and a welcome-home sign. It was one of those moments you wish you could freeze in time.
"Then the dinghies started coming.
"One after another, Loopers and boaters came over to visit, just like we had done so many times throughout our journey. New friendships were forming while ours were being celebrated. We even friended every one of them on Nebo because we weren’t quite ready to let go of that Loop feeling.
"Tom and Sally stopped by. Drew from the end of the dock came over. Eric from the boatyard welcomed us home. Friends came and went all afternoon and into the evening.
"And yes… the Azul tequila disappeared.
"By the end of the evening, we were exhausted, happy, and had finally found the gold at the end of the rainbow. After a year of chasing this dream, it felt like the perfect way to celebrate. ⚓🥂
"As incredible as crossing our wake was, the real treasure was the people.
"The only thing missing from our celebration was our bestie buddy boaters. We carried them with us that day, just like we’ve carried the friendships, laughter, and memories made along the way. To our buddy boaters and everyone we had the privilege of traveling with, thank you. Your friendship, companionship, laughter, advice, docktails, bartails, dinghytails, porchtails, shared meals, and willingness to help complete strangers turned this into something much bigger than a boat trip. You reminded us over and over that there is still an incredible amount of kindness in this world.
"We rented out our dirt home and lived aboard Happy Hour for almost an entire year. Along the way we watched spectacular sunrises and sunsets, weathered storms, celebrated birthdays and holidays, rode bicycles through towns we’d never heard of, walked streets we’d never seen, and dropped anchor in places we never imagined we’d visit.
"Though it wasn’t exactly 'vacay every day,' there is something special about watching the scenery slip by at 7 to 8 knots, spending your days outdoors, and living life a little slower. Somewhere along the way, we learned to adjust, breathe, and simply be still.
"After a year on the water, we’ve learned that not everything can be planned. Sometimes you go when you can, wait when you have to, and trust the timing. That’s true for weather, and it’s true for life.
"Looking back, there is something incredibly special about experiencing a dream together. Sharing this adventure and watching each other live a dream that had been years in the making made it even more meaningful.
"People often asked us what our favorite place was. As we got closer and closer to crossing our wake, our answer became simpler and simpler: Right here, Right now.
"For those who have completed the Loop, we are honored to join your ranks. For those currently doing it, especially our friends aboard ShadowFax, enjoy every minute and don’t sweat the small stuff. For those still dreaming about it, if it’s within your reach, do it sooner rather than later. As my mom always says, 'Life is too short to wake up with regrets. What are you going to talk about in your rocking chair?' Create your story now. Read about it later.
"This adventure may be behind us, but it has prepared us for whatever comes next. Looking back, it’s pretty amazing what Happy Hour accomplished. Our 1984 Uniflite carried us more than 6,600 miles around the Great Loop, and for nearly 700 of those miles she did it on one engine. Like us, she just kept finding a way to keep going. Most importantly, through every mile, every lock, every crossing, every challenge, and every celebration, God has been our pillar. His protection, guidance, and blessings carried us farther than any chart ever could, and for that we are deeply grateful.
"So for the final time…
VHF, this is Frank and Sharon aboard Happy Hour signing off.
Thank you for loop-frogging with us.
It was the ride of a lifetime."
IRISH MIST
Congratulations to Phil & Dolores, who completed their Loop on February 7, 2026 aboard their Ranger Tug R31-CB, IRISH MIST.
"This was an 8-year adventure, with many starts and stops, covering more than 7,500nm. The wonderful people we met, the friends we made, the history learned, and the waterways we experienced are unforgettable and truly delightful. We loved it all."
KNOT ON CALL
Congratulations to Ronald & Audrey, who completed their Loop on June 16, 2026 aboard their 44' DeFever OC, KNOT ON CALL.
“'If you can dream it, you can do it'. It's a phrase that may sound cliché, and in some ways it is, but the reality is that completing the Great Loop is a tremendous undertaking, requiring hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. It is not for the faint of heart. At the same time, it is a rewarding and humbling experience.
"There is a saying among Loopers that the hardest part of the journey is untying the lines and leaving the dock. For us, that may have been one of the easiest parts. While we experienced many incredible highs along the way, we also faced our share of lows.
"The highs were plentiful. We created countless memories and formed lasting friendships with fellow Loopers. We shared stories, laughter, and camaraderie over dinners, docktails, and day-to-day travels. We celebrated holidays both ashore and afloat—traveling home to spend time with family and friends at Christmas, and rafting up to other Loopers for a Thanksgiving feast when making it back to CT wasn't possible. Those moments reminded us that the Loop community truly becomes an extended family.
"We spent five weeks in Marathon, Florida, where we learned to play pickleball and quickly discovered just how addictive it can be. We also spent two weeks on the hard in Fort Lauderdale after learning our grounding in Canada had cracked the starboard stabilizer housing, requiring a complete rebuild. While that unexpected repair was certainly a setback, we were fortunate to have family nearby who graciously opened their home to us and made sure we stayed entertained and well cared for during our extended stay.
"Although the grounding and the repairs that followed were difficult, nothing compared to the heartbreak of losing our beloved 'fursmate', Molly, while we were in the Everglades. Saying goodbye to her was, without question, the lowest point of our Loop.
"During this most difficult time, we experienced a level of kindness that we will never forget. We are incredibly grateful to Frank and Diane, the staff at Everglades Isle. Even though we were anchored out and not staying at the marina, they didn't hesitate for a moment when we needed help. No questions asked, Frank and Diane quickly arranged transportation for us to Marco Veterinary Hospital so we could be with our Molly 'Muffins' as we said our final goodbye. Their generosity, compassion, and genuine concern meant more to us than words can adequately express.
"We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Marco Veterinary Hospital for their compassion, professionalism, and support. Their gentleness and understanding brought us comfort during an incredibly painful time and helped make Molly's final moments peaceful and filled with love.
"To Frank, Diane, and the staff at Marco Veterinary Hospital—thank you for your kindness when we needed it most. We will never forget it.
"The Great Loop gave us memories that will last a lifetime, tested us in ways we never anticipated, and taught us lessons we could not have learned any other way. Through the triumphs and the challenges, the friendships and the losses, it became so much more than a boating adventure—it became a chapter of our lives that we will forever cherish.
"To our family, friends, fellow Loopers, and everyone we met along the way, thank you for being part of our journey. The destinations were remarkable, but it was the people who made the adventure unforgettable."
Maia
Congratulations to Bob & Linda, who completed their Loop on June 1, 2026 aboard their 42' Matthew's Stock Cruiser, Maia.
"We started our Loop quite differently from so many other Loopers. We were only supposed to be out for a three week holiday but after the first week, over coffee one morning, we both happily decided 'let’s do the Loop'.
"From that time onwards there was no stopping us. Ten months, 6,000 nautical miles, 120+ locks, and meeting so many phenomenal fellow Loopers made the trip one that we will not soon forget!!!"
Miami
Congratulations to John & Sharon, who completed their Loop on May 30, 2026 aboard their Greenline 39, Miami.
"Our Australian flagged vessel, Miami, has taken the Admiral & I through the USA, Canada, & the Bahamas on the trip of a lifetime.
"Grateful for the opportunity to make this adventure ours, it has been made very special through new friendships formed along the way; Jim & Karen, Daniel & Natalie, George & Sharon, David & Annie, Bob & Ronda, just to name a few.
"Thanks also to Kim & the Home Crew @ AGLCA for the wealth of knowledge & support."
Miss Peaches
Congratulations to Rod & Brenda, who completed their Loop on June 5, 2026 aboard their Helmsman 37 Pilothouse, Miss Peaches.
"On June 5, 2026, our Great Loop adventure came full circle at our home port marina on the St. Johns River in Astor, Florida! Our multi-season journey aboard our 37 ft Helmsman trawler, M/V Miss Peaches, was incredibly fun, occasionally formidable, and filled with weather extremes. Through it all, our pilothouse and flybridge gave us front-row seats to local flora, fauna, and forts along these historic waterways. We loved cruising to local festivals, fairs, and farmers' markets — discovering flavorful food, fellowship, and great folk music along the way.
"Each mile brought a new adventure, though not every leg was 'Easy Peasy.' We followed beautiful spring weather up the Atlantic ICW and Chesapeake Bay, attended the AGLCA Spring Rendezvous, and ended our first season by locking through the historic Erie Canal during its 200th anniversary celebration. In summer, we wound through the scenic waterways of upstate New York and Canada. By fall, we turned south, enjoying festivals and foliage along the Great Lakes and inland rivers while navigating heavy commercial barge traffic, plus the occasional dense fog. Winter brought the challenge of dodging a national freeze as we explored Florida’s Gulf Coast, the Everglades, and the Florida Keys before heading back up the Atlantic ICW.
"We are deeply grateful to the entire AGLCA community — staff, sponsors, Harbor Hosts, and fellow Loopers — along with maritime authorities, lockmasters, mechanics, local churches and businesses, buddy boats, friends, and family who supported us along the way. Your kindness, generosity, and encouragement made it possible for us to fulfill our dream: completing the Great Loop through North America’s historic waterways and earning our gold burgee! 🏆"
Ohm Sweet Ohm
Congratulations to Judy & Chris, who completed their Loop on June 9, 2026 aboard their Greenline GL40, Ohm Sweet Ohm.
RAMBLE ON
Congratulations to Mark & Diana, who completed their Loop on June 17, 2026 aboard their Nordic Tug 37, RAMBLE ON.
"We'd like to thank Nordic Tug for building a tank that floats and Cummins for designing the 6BTA diesel engine, known as 'the Million Mile Motor'. Together they got us around the Loop safely, economically, and in real comfort. The most memorable aspect of our 379-day voyage was the people we met, the fellow Loopers and the local characters. We also learned so much about the geography and history of this great country. For anybody thinking of doing the Great Loop, or as we call it, 'The World's Longest Pub Crawl', we say, don't hesitate - Get a boat and go!"
road to nowhere
Congratulations to Randy & Deb, who completed their Loop on June 1, 2026 aboard their Mainship 390, road to nowhere.
"It was a trip of a lifetime. It is not an easy trip, we both had just recently retired and had been planning this for over 2 years in advance.
"The people you meet along the way and 'Loop-frog' with makes the trip that much more interesting and fun. The trip itself is eye-opening to the things we can do when we work together, such as weather, waves, and boat issues to go to places we would never see by land. Our favorite was the Dry Tortugas.
"Now it’s time for a new adventure."
ROAM
Congratulations to George & Midge, who completed their Loop on May 16, 2026 aboard their Monk 36, ROAM.
"Wow!!! What a ride! The Great Loop exceeded all the ideas we thought it would be. The first day we learned 'You can’t see it if you’re not looking'… the scenery unfolded in front of us and hour by hour we got to experience the outdoors up close and personal. So much serendipity with planned and unplanned encounters with boaters and other people in so many different places made for an incredible mix of excitement, joy, and fun. The experiences we had with our various boater friends as we loop-frogged, enriched our journey in so many positive ways with laughter, smiles, support, and stories. Experiencing the history; our boating knowledge gained; so many fun pubs and the genuine positivity of the boater community was truly special. As we continue to cruise for the next year we look forward to keeping alive this wonderful spirit of adventure. The lyrics from the song ROAM ring even more true for us now — roam if you want to… roam around the world… without wings, without wheels… roam without anything but the love you feel. See y’all on the water!!"
Santosha
Congratulations to Erin & David, who completed their Loop on June 17, 2026 aboard their Prestige 590, Santosha.
Savella
Congratulations to Ford & Tamara (as well as Savannah & Gabriella!), who completed their Loop on May 29, 2026 aboard their Marlow 61C, Savella.
"Just under 1 year, 3 countries, 17 states, 1 district and 6,000 nautical miles later, we crossed our wake. Through all of this, the biggest takeaway is our restored faith in humankind. We met so many wonderful Loopers, boaters in general, and people that were so gracious to us as we floated around the waters of the eastern part of the U.S. There are too many great places and memorable stops to list, but even if days and weeks are a blur sometimes, the memories we made we will have for a lifetime. We cannot describe the gallons of ice cream or number of playgrounds that we found along the way, or the numerous beverages consumed with new friends on a nightly basis.
"A huge thanks to Captain Mel and Captain Don who helped us get our trip underway and kept us afloat. Boating through so many different types of conditions and every day being in new navigation areas was both exhilarating and trying. We will continue with new adventures in the not-too-distant future and wish all those currently underway safe travels.
"We always remind people that this is not a vacation, but an adventure that had high highs and low lows. Special shoutouts to all the people that adopted our girls and made them feel loved. From the many special times together, the presents they received, to joining in on their birthday celebrations. We will cherish our Looper card book and look back on it to remember the places and times that we met and the stories of how you undertook this adventure and the reasons behind doing it."
SENECA
Congratulations to David & Christa, who completed their Loop on June 20, 2026 aboard their Ta Chiao CT-35, SENECA.
"An adventure finally accomplished after dreaming about it for the last 17 years."
Y Knot X
Congratulations to Yves & Roylana, who completed their Loop on June 22, 2026 aboard their Bayliner 43, Y Knot X.
"We departed on our Great Loop journey on June 18, 2025, aboard our 43-foot motor yacht and returned home on June 26, 2026, after navigating a little over 5,500 nautical miles through rivers, canals, lakes, coastal waterways, and open ocean passages across the United States and Canada.
"Adding to the adventure, we extended our voyage with a memorable 11-week side trip to the Bahamas, exploring crystal-clear waters, island communities, and some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful cruising grounds before continuing our journey north.
"Throughout the year-long voyage, we experienced a wide variety of waterways and conditions, from the historic Trent Severn, Georgian Bay and North Channel, the mighty Mississippi, Erie Canal and the Hudson River, to the Great Lakes, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the turquoise waters of the Bahamas. Along the way, we visited countless communities, formed lasting friendships with fellow cruisers, and embraced the lifestyle that makes the Great Loop a dream for boaters across North America.
"We set out seeking adventure and discovery, but what we found was even more rewarding. The people we met, the places we explored, and the memories we created together made this truly the trip of a lifetime.
"Our successful completion of the Great Loop reflects months of planning, seamanship, and dedication, while demonstrating the growing popularity of long-distance cruising among Canadian boaters.
"Now back in Kingston, we're look forward to sharing stories, photos, and lessons learned from this remarkable journey with fellow boating enthusiasts and our local community as we prepare for the next adventure ~ the Down East Circle Loop ~ where we will visit our home province of NB and reconnect with where the dream began on the mighty Miramichi and Saint John Rivers!"
Upcoming Events:
Admiral Sponsors
Commander and Lieutenant Plus
Lieutenant
