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.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

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. The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org. Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

Great Loop Radio: Story of Our Loop: Ken & Cheryl Pfeiffer, Custom Trawler

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!

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

You can download the AGLCA app below.

iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aglca/id6476233488
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.landandseasoft.aglca&hl=en_US

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! The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org. Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership. You can download the AGLCA app below. iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aglca/id6476233488 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.landandseasoft.aglca&hl=en_US

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!

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

You can download the AGLCA app below.

iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aglca/id6476233488
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.landandseasoft.aglca&amp;hl=en_US

Great Loop Radio: Looper Loot

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.

The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org.

Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

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. The Great Loop is the boating adventure of a lifetime. Loopers follow the 6,000-mile route in their own boats, cruising up the east coast, into the Great Lakes, through the inland rivers, and through the Gulf. Learn more at www.greatloop.org. Not yet an AGLCA member? Join today and use code LOOP20 for $20 off your new membership.

Great Loop Radio: Lithium Batteries: What Loopers Need to Know

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.

Want to learn more about the Great Loop and connect with thousands of experienced Loopers? Join AGLCA for trusted information, educational resources, and a community that's ready to help every step of the way.

Visit https://www.greatloop.org/join-online.html and use code LOOP20 to save $20 on a new membership.

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. Want to learn more about the Great Loop and connect with thousands of experienced Loopers? Join AGLCA for trusted information, educational resources, and a community that's ready to help every step of the way. Visit https://www.greatloop.org/join-online.html and use code LOOP20 to save $20 on a new membership.

Great Debates: Route Choices (Part 2)

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. 
Tune in for the information you need to plan your visit and make the most of this unforgettable stretch of the Loop. Often described as the adventure of a lifetime, America's Great Loop boasts a 'low risk, high reward' travel experience. Boaters journey over 5,000 miles around the Eastern part of the United States and into parts of Canada.

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. Tune in for the information you need to plan your visit and make the most of this unforgettable stretch of the Loop. Often described as the adventure of a lifetime, America's Great Loop boasts a 'low risk, high reward' travel experience. Boaters journey over 5,000 miles around the Eastern part of the United States and into parts of Canada.

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.&nbsp;
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.&nbsp;
Tune in for the information you need to plan your visit and make the most of this unforgettable stretch of the Loop. Often described as the adventure of a lifetime, America's Great Loop boasts a 'low risk, high reward' travel experience. Boaters journey over 5,000 miles around the Eastern part of the United States and into parts of Canada.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Great Loop Radio: Cruising Through Chicago

Find Karly & Evan here:
YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingnietzels" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingnietzels</a>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/navigatingnietzels" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.instagram.com/navigatingnietzels</a>
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550850008997" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550850008997</a>
TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@karlynietzel" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.tiktok.com/@karlynietzel</a>

Find Karly & Evan here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingnietzels Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/navigatingnietzels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550850008997 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@karlynietzel

Find Karly &amp; Evan here:
YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingnietzels" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingnietzels</a>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/navigatingnietzels" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.instagram.com/navigatingnietzels</a>
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550850008997" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550850008997</a>
TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@karlynietzel" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.tiktok.com/@karlynietzel</a>

One Year on the Great Loop with the Navigating Nietzels

You can view the video one of Lee's crew members made featuring photos of his time on the Loop here:
<a href="https://vimeo.com/reviews/fe36bb9d-0571-4d8d-9be6-c6f3fd6c34b6/videos/1080218461" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://vimeo.com/reviews/fe36bb9d-0571-4d8d-9be6-c6f3fd6c34b6/videos/1080218461</a>

You can view the video one of Lee's crew members made featuring photos of his time on the Loop here: https://vimeo.com/reviews/fe36bb9d-0571-4d8d-9be6-c6f3fd6c34b6/videos/1080218461

You can view the video one of Lee's crew members made featuring photos of his time on the Loop here:
<a href="https://vimeo.com/reviews/fe36bb9d-0571-4d8d-9be6-c6f3fd6c34b6/videos/1080218461" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://vimeo.com/reviews/fe36bb9d-0571-4d8d-9be6-c6f3fd6c34b6/videos/1080218461</a>

Story of Our Loop - Lee & Kathy

<h1>SkyMed International</h1>
Admiral Sponsor
<ul>
 <li><a href="mailto:rob@skymed.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">rob@skymed.com</a></li>
 <li><a href="https://skymed.com/?krajicek" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://skymed.com/?krajicek</a></li>
 <li>813-997-2377</li>
</ul>
Webinar Link: <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87082956772?pwd=DM5euHy0fvLj4qycFGzRWyKpFBOMBb.1" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87082956772?pwd=DM5euHy0fvLj4qycFGzRWyKpFBOMBb.1</a>

SkyMed International Admiral Sponsor rob@skymed.com https://skymed.com/?krajicek 813-997-2377 Webinar Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87082956772?pwd=DM5euHy0fvLj4qycFGzRWyKpFBOMBb.1

SkyMed International
Admiral Sponsor
<ul>
 <li><a href="mailto:rob@skymed.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">rob@skymed.com</a></li>
 <li><a href="https://skymed.com/?krajicek" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://skymed.com/?krajicek</a></li>
 <li>813-997-2377</li>
</ul>
Webinar Link: <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87082956772?pwd=DM5euHy0fvLj4qycFGzRWyKpFBOMBb.1" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87082956772?pwd=DM5euHy0fvLj4qycFGzRWyKpFBOMBb.1</a>

SkyMed

Captain Craig's Boat Services
<ul>
 <li><a href="mailto:craig@captaincraigsboatingservices.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">craig@captaincraigsboatingservices.com</a></li>
 <li><a href="https://www.captaincraigsboatingservices.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.captaincraigsboatingservices.com/</a></li>
 <li>3215011282</li>
</ul>

Captain Craig's Boat Services craig@captaincraigsboatingservices.com https://www.captaincraigsboatingservices.com/ 3215011282

Captain Craig's Boat Services
<ul>
 <li><a href="mailto:craig@captaincraigsboatingservices.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">craig@captaincraigsboatingservices.com</a></li>
 <li><a href="https://www.captaincraigsboatingservices.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.captaincraigsboatingservices.com/</a></li>
 <li>3215011282</li>
</ul>

Tides and Currents

<a href="https://theboatgalley.com/">The Boat Galley</a>John Herlig's <a href="https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/the-boat-galley-handy-vhf-reference-quick-guide-for-all-boaters-sailboats-powerboats-fishing-boats-trawlers-houseboats-cruisers-and-loopers">VHF Quick Reference Guide</a>

The Boat Galley John Herlig's VHF Quick Reference Guide

<a href="https://theboatgalley.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Boat Galley</a>John Herlig's <a href="https://products.theboatgalley.com/products/the-boat-galley-handy-vhf-reference-quick-guide-for-all-boaters-sailboats-powerboats-fishing-boats-trawlers-houseboats-cruisers-and-loopers" rel="noopener noreferrer">VHF Quick Reference Guide</a>

Using your VHF Radio on the Great Loop

My guest is Brent Bowlin of Great Loop Yacht Sales<a href="https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/" target="_blank">https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/</a>brent@greatloopyachtsales.com865.216.7628

My guest is Brent Bowlin of Great Loop Yacht Sales https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/ brent@greatloopyachtsales.com 865.216.7628

My guest is Brent Bowlin of Great Loop Yacht Sales<a href="https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/</a>brent@greatloopyachtsales.com865.216.7628&nbsp;

2025 Great Loop Completion Stats

Scott Miller, Miller Marine Consulting <a href="mailto:scott@millermarineconsulting.com" target="_blank">scott@millermarineconsulting.com</a><a href="https://millermarineconsulting.com/" target="_blank">https://millermarineconsulting.com/</a>703-927-5705

Scott Miller, Miller Marine Consultingscott@millermarineconsulting.com https://millermarineconsulting.com/ 703-927-5705

Scott Miller, Miller Marine Consulting <a href="mailto:scott@millermarineconsulting.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">scott@millermarineconsulting.com</a><a href="https://millermarineconsulting.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://millermarineconsulting.com/</a>703-927-5705 &nbsp;

Surveying Your Boat in 2026

Thank you to Cindy Lewis & Sterling Associates for their AGLCA sponsorship!<ul><li><a href="mailto:cindy@recreationfinance.com" target="_blank">cindy@recreationfinance.com</a></li><li><a href="http://www.recreationfinance.com/" target="_blank">http://www.recreationfinance.com</a></li><li>410.903.6611</li></ul>

Thank you to Cindy Lewis & Sterling Associates for their AGLCA sponsorship!cindy@recreationfinance.comhttp://www.recreationfinance.com410.903.6611

Thank you to Cindy Lewis &amp; Sterling Associates for their AGLCA sponsorship!<ul><li><a href="mailto:cindy@recreationfinance.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">cindy@recreationfinance.com</a></li><li><a href="http://www.recreationfinance.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">http://www.recreationfinance.com</a></li><li>410.903.6611</li></ul>

Financing Your Boat in 2026

Thank you to Jack Martin & Associates for their AGLCA sponsorship! Here's how to reach Jon Horton:Email: jon.horton@jackmartin.comPhone: O 410-626-1000 | M 443-336-6838

Thank you to Jack Martin & Associates for their AGLCA sponsorship! Here's how to reach Jon Horton: Email: jon.horton@jackmartin.com Phone: O 410-626-1000 | M 443-336-6838

Thank you to Jack Martin &amp; Associates for their AGLCA sponsorship! Here's how to reach Jon Horton:Email: jon.horton@jackmartin.comPhone: O&nbsp;410-626-1000 |&nbsp;M 443-336-6838&nbsp;

Marine Insurance in 2026

Thank you to Great Loop Yacht Sales for their AGLCA sponsorship! You can reach them at:Website: <a href="https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/">https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/</a>Tel: <a>855-826-4597</a>Email: info@greatloopyachtsales.com

Thank you to Great Loop Yacht Sales for their AGLCA sponsorship! You can reach them at: Website: https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/ Tel: 855-826-4597 Email: info@greatloopyachtsales.com

Thank you to Great Loop Yacht Sales for their AGLCA sponsorship! You can reach them at:Website: <a href="https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.greatloopyachtsales.com/</a>Tel: <a rel="noopener noreferrer">855-826-4597</a>Email: info@greatloopyachtsales.com

Great Loop Boat Buying in 2026

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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