Great Loop Information--Things that will break on your boat

Lithium batteries are a hot topic! Every time the idea of converting your boat from lead acid to lithium batteries comes up on the Great Loop forum or Facebook group, controversy ensues. Are lithium batteries safe for Looping boats? Will you realize a return on your investment if you upgrade to lithium? This week's episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast covers lithium batteries. Gold Looper Mike Bell is our guest. He helps explain the technology behind lithium batteries, what types of cruisers might benefit from the conversion to lithium, and answers some of the questions regarding safety issues. Join us for this enlightening discussion on lithium batteries on the Loop.

Join us as Eric Martin, our current Harbor Host of the Year and Manager at Donovan's Shady Harbor, provides tips on what to expect when needing work done at a boatyard while on the Great Loop. Eric will include suggestions on what parts to carry with you, how to go about planning for scheduled maintenance, and what to do when you need unexpected or emergency repairs.

What does it take to do the Great Loop without fossil fuels? Bryan Verhulp is underway on the Great Loop aboard his trawler that he converted from diesel-powered to electric. Find out how he made the conversion, including the mechanical components (both those he removed and those installed), the cost, and the vessel's performance so far on the Loop.

Considering winter storage for your Great Loop boat? Tom Pirro and John Lombardi from Winter Harbor Marina talk about winter storage. They share how boats are prepared for heated storage and relaunched in spring. They also share tips on winterizing boats that will be cold stored.