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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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In this episode of Great Loop Radio’s Story of Our Loop series, we talk with Jenny and Phil about completing the Great Loop aboard their 55' Marquis with their two daughters. Jenny started the adventure as a reluctant spouse, but the experience became something much more meaningful for her and their entire family. Jenny and Phil share what life aboard was like as a family of four, some of their favorite memories and experiences along the way, and the lessons they learned while completing the Loop. They also offer practical tips and advice for others planning their own Great Loop adventure. Hear how the Great Loop brought their family together, what the journey ultimately meant to them, and why Jenny and Phil hope their story will inspire other families—and even a few reluctant spouses—to take the leap and experience the adventure for themselves.

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.

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.

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.

In this episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast, we continue our “Story of My Loop” series with veteran mariner Peter Reich, who completed the Great Loop aboard his Lord Nelson Victory Tug. Peter brings a depth of experience rarely matched among Loopers, with a background that includes a degree in naval architecture, years as a commercial mariner, marina operator, and lifelong pleasure boater. Peter shares highlights from his Great Loop adventure, lessons learned from a Gulf crossing that didn’t go according to plan, and the ways his decades on the water shaped the strong culture of safety he maintains aboard his boat. From preparation and seamanship to decision-making underway, this episode is packed with practical wisdom that even the most experienced cruisers will appreciate. Whether you’re actively planning your Loop or already underway, Peter’s thoughtful advice and real-world perspective offer valuable takeaways for every boater.

Most Loopers know about AGLCA’s educational resources, events, and community support, but are you taking full advantage of all the benefits included with your membership? In this episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast, the Home Port Crew shares five of the most under-used AGLCA member benefits that can make your Looping journey easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Kim Russo and Karen Nettles discuss how the Member Directory can help you connect with fellow Loopers with whom you have something in common, why Harbor Guides are one of the most valuable planning tools available to cruisers, and how downloadable .gpx files can simplify route planning and navigation. They also highlight discounts and special offers available from AGLCA sponsors and explain how the AGLCA App puts important resources right at your fingertips while underway. Whether you’re still dreaming about the Loop, actively planning, or already cruising, this episode will help you get even more value from your AGLCA membership and introduce you to resources you may not even realize you have access to.

Planning to cruise into Canada during your Great Loop adventure? In this episode of Great Loop Radio, Home Port Crew members Karen Nettles and Kim Russo walk through the process of entering Canada by boat, helping Loopers understand what to expect before they cross the border. From when and how to check in with Canadian authorities to the documents you'll need onboard, Karen and Kim break down the requirements in a practical, easy-to-follow way. They also discuss what items may be restricted or prohibited, common mistakes that can lead to delays, and how procedures can vary depending on where and how you enter Canada. Whether you're planning to cruise the Trent-Severn Waterway, the Rideau Canal, Georgian Bay, or other Canadian portions of the Loop, this episode will help you arrive prepared and confident so you can focus on enjoying some of the most beautiful cruising grounds on the Great Loop. Join us as we demystify the Canadian entry process and share tips to help make your border crossing smooth and stress-free.

In this installment of our “Story of Our Loop” series, we chat with Doug & Melissa about their Great Loop adventure aboard their Gemini 105MC catamaran. Cruising at about 4.5 knots, they completed the Loop in just over a year, proving that there’s no “right” speed or schedule for America’s Great Loop. Doug & Melissa share what life was like aboard a smaller catamaran with both a dog and a cat along for the journey, including the unique challenges and rewards of cruising with pets. While they originally planned to spend much of the trip anchoring out, they were pleasantly surprised by the incredible sense of community among Loopers. The friendships they made along the way became one of the greatest highlights of their adventure. Join us for a conversation about slow cruising, unexpected connections, and the special camaraderie that makes the Great Loop experience unlike any other.

Cruising the Great Loop often means being away from home for months at a time, but life’s paperwork doesn’t stop just because you’ve left the dock. In this episode of Great Loop Radio, we discuss ways Loopers can handle personal business remotely while traveling. Our guest, Angie Boynton of Happy at Law, explains how remote online notary services can help cruisers sign and notarize documents from virtually anywhere, along with the technology and preparation needed to make the process smooth. We also discuss Powers of Attorney, including the different types, when they may be helpful, and how they can allow trusted individuals to handle financial, legal, healthcare, or other matters while you’re underway. Whether you’re planning your Great Loop adventure or already cruising, this episode offers practical tips to help you stay prepared and connected while managing life from afar.

Whether you’re flying for work obligations, traveling home for a family event, welcoming guests aboard, or planning a crew change during your Great Loop adventure, getting to and from the boat can sometimes feel like a logistical puzzle. In this episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast, we’re joined by Michael Martin of Great Loop Yacht Sales to talk through practical tips for making travel days easier while Looping. We share strategies for identifying airports near the Great Loop route, including using AGLCA’s interactive Great Loop map to locate airports and plan your travel logistics. We also discuss ways to get from the marina to the terminal, and how a little advance planning can save both time and stress. In addition, we cover how your membership in America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association can help along the way through Harbor Hosts who often provide local knowledge—and sometimes even rides to and from the airport—as well as member discounts on rental cars. If air travel is part of your Great Loop plans, this episode is packed with practical advice to help make the process smoother and easier.