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

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

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

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 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.

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.

Use code LOOP20 for $20 your new membership.

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. 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. Use code LOOP20 for $20 your new membership.

Great Loop Radio: Before You Hit the Inland Rivers - What Loopers Need to Know

Our Guest Host this week will be David Grill, NY Harbor Host, who will talk about  cruising New York Harbor and around Staten Island.

Our Guest Host this week will be David Grill, NY Harbor Host, who will talk about cruising New York Harbor and around Staten Island.

Our Guest Host this week will be David Grill, NY Harbor Host, who will talk about&nbsp; cruising New York Harbor and around Staten Island.

Great Loop Information--Cruising NY Harbor and Staten Island

This week our Guest Hosts are Richard and Carol Nick, Harbor Hosts for cape May, NJ,

This week our Guest Hosts are Richard and Carol Nick, Harbor Hosts for cape May, NJ,

Great Loop Information--Cape May, NJ

Our Guest hosts this week are Carol and Richard Nick.

Our Guest hosts this week are Carol and Richard Nick.

Great Loop Information-Carol and Richard Nick

Cruising Into Canada and Back to US

This week our Guests Hosts are Ron and Eva Stob. They will discuss the early days of the organization and their own Great Loop cruise.

This week our Guests Hosts are Ron and Eva Stob. They will discuss the early days of the organization and their own Great Loop cruise.

Great Loop Information--A conversation with the Founders

Our Guest Host is Donna Stewart, manager of the Dismal Swamp Canal. Connecting the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia via the Elizabeth River and the Albemarle Sound in North Carolina via the Pasquotank River, this is the oldest continually operating man-made canal in the United States. Its inclusion into the National Register of Historic Places and its designation as a National Civil Engineering Landmark are honors worthy of its colorful past. Donna will tell us about cruising the Canal and why it should be part of every Great Loop cruise!

Our Guest Host is Donna Stewart, manager of the Dismal Swamp Canal. Connecting the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia via the Elizabeth River and the Albemarle Sound in North Carolina via the Pasquotank River, this is the oldest continually operating man-made canal in the United States. Its inclusion into the National Register of Historic Places and its designation as a National Civil Engineering Landmark are honors worthy of its colorful past. Donna will tell us about cruising the Canal and why it should be part of every Great Loop cruise!

Great Loop Information--The Dismal Swamp

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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