A Culture of Safety Aboard

While serious medical emergencies on the Great Loop are rare—and help is usually not far away—being on a boat does mean handling situations a little differently than you would at home. In this important episode, Dr. Robert Leviton of Maritime Medicine joins us to share practical guidance on responding to common onboard medical issues, from minor concerns to more serious situations. Learn what every cruiser should know about caring for a crewmate, stabilizing a situation, and safely getting to help if needed. Whether you’re planning your Loop or already underway, this episode offers valuable knowledge that can help you cruise with greater confidence.

On this bonus episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast, Rob Krajicek joins us to talk about something every Looper hopes they’ll never need—but will be grateful to have. When you’re cruising far from home, exploring small towns, remote anchorages, and unfamiliar waters, medical emergencies can feel even more daunting. Rob explains how SkyMed works, why traditional insurance may not be enough, and how having a medical transport membership in place can bring real peace of mind—not just on the Great Loop, but while traveling anywhere and even at home.

Your VHF radio might be the most underrated piece of gear on your Great Loop—but it can make all the difference when it comes to safety, navigation, and communicating with other boats, bridges, and locks while on the water. This week, John Herlig from The Boat Galley joins us to break down the essentials: when to use the VHF, which channels matter, and the simple habits that can keep you safer and more confident underway. Whether you’re new to boating or just need a refresher, this episode will help you get the most out of this vital onboard tool.