Great Loop Radio Podcast

AGLCA

America's Great Loop Cruisers' Association brings you this weekly podcast providing information and inspiration to help you plan your own Great Loop adventure.

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20 episodes
Updated Friday

Episodes20

Newest first

Friday · 38 min
Story of our Loop - The Brown Family, 55' Marquis
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 Lo
July 24 · 32 min
Upcoming AGLCA Events
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 L
July 17 · 46 min
All About Georgian Bay
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 offe
July 10 · 48 min
Great Debates: Boat Features
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 cru
July 3 · 45 min
Cruising the Rideau Canal
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 t
June 19 · 43 min
Story of My Loop: Peter - 37' Lord Nelson Victory Tug
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’
June 12 · 21 min
5 Most Under-Used AGLCA Membership Benefits
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
June 5 · 34 min
Crossing Into Canada on the Loop
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
May 29 · 34 min
Story of Our Loop-Doug & Melissa-Gemini 105MC
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 or
May 22 · 24 min
Handling Personal Business While on the Great Loop
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
May 15 · 33 min
Traveling To and From the Boat While Looping
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, includi
May 8 · 29 min
Story of Our Loop-Eleanor & Alan, Brits on the Great Loop
Cruising the Great Loop is an adventure for anyone—but doing it as international visitors adds a whole new layer of planning and perspective. In this episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast, we chat with British Loopers Alan and Eleanor about their journey from the U.K. to the U.S. to tackle America’s Great Loop. They share the visa process they used, how they purchased a boat in the United States, and some of the unforgettable highlights from their travels along the Loop. Alan and Eleanor also
May 1 · 30 min
Saving Money on the Great Loop with AGLCA
Looking for ways to make your Great Loop adventure more affordable without sacrificing the experience? In this episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast, the Home Port Crew shares practical, real-world tips to help you stretch your cruising budget. From smart fuel strategies to creative approaches for reducing dockage costs, this episode is packed with ideas you can put to use right away. The crew also covers lesser-known opportunities to offset expenses—including how you can earn a free AGLCA me
April 24 · 38 min
Electric Boats for the Great Loop
What does the future of Great Loop cruising look like—and will it be electric? While electric boats are making waves and the market is growing fast, the big question remains: can they handle the demands of the Loop today? In this episode, we sit down with Erick Pinzon of Electrified Marina to explore where electric boating stands right now—and where it’s headed. From emerging technology and industry trends to real-world limitations like range, speed, and charging infrastructure, Erick breaks do
April 17 · 38 min
The Art of the Side Trip
In this episode of Great Loop Radio, we’re joined by Terri and John D’Onofrio—Loopers who decided early on that their adventure wouldn’t be limited to the “standard” route. While still on their Great Loop journey, they’ve already added an incredible 4,000 miles by saying yes to side trips that many dream about but few actually take. From cruising the iconic waters of Long Island Sound to exploring the turquoise beauty of the Bahamas, venturing out to the remote Dry Tortugas, and meandering alon
April 10 · 39 min
Story of Our Loop-Tad & Libbie, Kadey-Krogen 39
Tad and Libbie took a unique approach to completing America’s Great Loop—proving that the journey doesn’t have to be done all at once to be unforgettable. Aboard their Kadey-Krogen 39 Selkie, they tackled the Loop in three thoughtfully planned segments, balancing their love of cruising with time back on land. In this episode of Great Loop Radio, they offer an honest look at Looping—the highs, the challenges, and the realities of stepping away and coming back. They share how breaking the Loop in
April 3 · 39 min
Our Advocacy Efforts
On this episode, the Home Port Crew dives into our advocacy mission—what it means, why it matters, and how we’re working to support it. We’ll share the key issues we’ve tackled, highlight current areas of concern, and look ahead to what’s on the horizon. Most importantly, we’ll talk about where you can make a difference and how you can help shape the future. 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
March 27 · 32 min
A Culture of Safety Aboard
Cruising the Great Loop is an incredible adventure—but safety requires more than just the right gear. In this episode, we’re joined by Wes Notovitz to talk about how to intentionally build a culture of safety aboard your boat. Learn how to set expectations, involve your crew, and reinforce safe habits—while also discovering how a strong safety culture can reduce incidents and even lead to cost savings. We’ll also cover ways to test your readiness so you’re prepared when it counts. The Great Lo
March 20 · 31 min
Story of My Loop: Jacquie, Rosborough 246
What would it take to cast off the lines and take on the Great Loop completely on your own? Jacquie did just that aboard her Rosborough 246, and her story is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, she shares the highs, the challenges, and the moments that tested her resolve along the way. In addition, she reflects on what the journey gave back to her. If you’ve ever wondered if you're capable of doing the Great Loop solo, Jacquie’s story might just inspire you to find out.
March 13 · 40 min
Medical Emergencies 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 he

Great Loop Radio Podcast

Story of our Loop - The Brown Family, 55' Marquis

Upcoming AGLCA Events

All About Georgian Bay

Great Debates: Boat Features

Cruising the Rideau Canal

Story of My Loop: Peter - 37' Lord Nelson Victory Tug

5 Most Under-Used AGLCA Membership Benefits

Crossing Into Canada on the Loop

Story of Our Loop-Doug & Melissa-Gemini 105MC

Handling Personal Business While on the Great Loop

Traveling To and From the Boat While Looping

Story of Our Loop-Eleanor & Alan, Brits on the Great Loop

Saving Money on the Great Loop with AGLCA

Electric Boats for the Great Loop

The Art of the Side Trip

Story of Our Loop-Tad & Libbie, Kadey-Krogen 39

Our Advocacy Efforts

A Culture of Safety Aboard

Story of My Loop: Jacquie, Rosborough 246

Medical Emergencies Aboard