Great Loop Radio Podcast

Great Loop Radio Podcast episodes:

• 04.19.2024

  Great Loop Radio: Advocacy Update

  Join us as America's Great Loop Cruisers' Association's Home Port Crew updates you on our Advocacy efforts including what we do on behalf of members and the boating community as a whole, what we're working on including a long-term issue...

  
• 04.12.2024

  Great Loop Radio: Why Fitness Matters on the Loop

  Several things on the Great Loop are easier if you maintain a good fitness level.  Our guest this week is Doreen Sharpe. She is a Gold Looper and a Physiotherapist, and she shares the reasons why maintaining fitness is important...

  
• 03.29.2024

  Great Loop Radio: AGLCA Harbor Hosts

  This week's episode focuses on our friendly and helpful Harbor Hosts!  The Home Port Crew shares more about the Harbor Host program and the True North Harbor Host of the Year award. Then, the 2022 and 2023 Harbor Hosts of...

  
• 03.22.2024

  Great Loop Radio: Skills to Know Before You Loop

  With a focus on locking and anchoring, this week's episode includes some of the skills you should practice before starting your own Great Loop adventure.  Our guest is Boris Hodak, a recent Gold Looper and U.S. Coast Guard 100 Ton...

  
• 03.15.2024

  Great Loop Radio: Looping on a Fast Boat

  Considering Looping on a fast boat? In this episode, Gold Looper Tom Gutowski joins us to share details on how and why he and Jan chose to cruise the Great Loop on a faster boat. Our discussion focuses primarily on...

  
• 03.08.2024

  Great Loop Radio: Sharing the Journey

  Gold Looper Kim Fleer joins us this week to talk about some of the options for sharing your Great Loop with those you leave behind. We'll discuss the pros and cons of sharing via Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, blogs, and other...

  
• 03.01.2024

  Great Loop Radio: Watching Your Wake

  This week we talk about watching your wake.  It's important for all Great Loopers to practice safe and courteous boating!  The biggest error we see in this area is boats not slowing enough in no wake zones, minimum wake zones,...

  
• 02.23.2024

  Great Loop Radio: Story of Our Loop - Kim & Michael, 41' Silverton

  Kim Russo (AGLCA's Director) and Michael Martin share the story of their own Great Loop adventure aboard The Perch, a Silverton 410 cockpit motor yacht. They'll talk about why they did the Loop, their cruising preferences, and details about their...

  
• 02.16.2024

  Great Loop Radio: 2024 Marine Insurance Update

  This week we wrap up our 2024 update series by talking about marine insurance. Jon Horton with Jack Martin and Associates joins us to discuss what to expect when seeking insurance for your Great Loop boat in the coming year.    The...

  
• 02.09.2024

  Great Loop Radio: 2023 Loop Completion Stats

  The results are in! Listen to find out how many boats completed the Great Loop in 2023 and which boat makes were most popular.  Brent Bowlin and Michael Martin of Great Loop Yacht Sales join us to share some of...

  
• 02.02.2024

  Great Loop Radio: The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association

  This week we talk about the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association (AIWA) and the work they do to keep the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway navigable. Brad Pickel, AIWA's Executive Director, is our guest and he'll share details of why the AIWA was...

  
• 01.19.2024

  Great Loop Radio: 2024 Marine Financing Update

  Join us as Cindy Lewis of Sterling Associates shares her insight on what to expect if you're considering financing a boat in 2024.  Are interest rates really that high? What kinds of terms can I expect?  What are some of...

  
• 01.05.2024

  Great Loop Radio: 2024 Boat Buying Market Update

  Curtis Stokes of Curtis Stokes & Associates is back as our guest to provide an update on what to expect if you are buying our selling a boat in 2024. Our discussion includes marketplace trends, pricing, insurance concerns, and what...

  
• 12.29.2023

  Great Loop Radio: 2024 Preview

  Join us as the Home Port Crew from America's Great Loop Cruisers' Association gives a recap of happenings on the Great Loop in 2023 and previews what's to come in 2024. We'll talk about upcoming AGLCA efforts like Fleet of...

  
• 12.22.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Gulf Crossing-YOU Make the Call

  The Gulf of Mexico crossing brings apprehension for many Loopers as they prepare for the Great Loop's longest open water crossing and seek a suitable weather window. Assistance is available to AGLCA members!  Dave Fuller, former AGLCA Volunteer of the...

  
• 12.22.2023

  Gulf Crossing-YOU Make the Call

  The Gulf of Mexico crossing brings apprehension for many Loopers as they prepare for the Great Loop's longest open water crossing and seek a suitable weather window. Assistance is available to AGLCA members!  Dave Fuller, former AGLCA Volunteer of the...

  
• 12.15.2023

  Great Loop Radio: A Unique Perspective on Handling Commercial Traffic

  On this week's episode, current Looper Dan Pease shares his unique perspective on dealing with commercial traffic on the Great Loop.  Dan is a former tow captain who joins us from his Looping boat currently in Florida. Dan will share...

  
• 12.08.2023

  Great Loop Radio: What to Know Before Cruising Florida

  The America's Great Loop Cruisers' Association Home Port Crew tackles some of the special considerations and skills to master before cruising the Florida segments of the Great Loop. Our discussion includes information on: Marina ReservationsThe Gulf CrossingSojourners Permit/Temporary RegistrationRequired Everglades Boating...

  
• 12.01.2023

  Great Loop Radio: The Story of our Loop - Tom & Joyce, 45' Californian

  Tom & Joyce share the story of their Great Loop adventure. They and their friends, Lee & Jan, Looped aboard a 45' Californian.  Two couples...one boat.  Can it work?  Tom & Joyce explain how with the right attitude, the right...

  
• 11.17.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Looping on a Jet Ski

  What's it like to travel 7,000 miles on a jet ski? Find our when Gold Looper Mike Straub shares the details of his Great Loop adventure aboard his personal watercraft, "Y Wait". Mike shares how he handled basic needs like...

  
• 11.03.2023

  Great Loop Radio - Story of our Loop - Maggie & Bruce, 29' Ranger Tug

  Bruce and Maggie share the story of their Great Loop adventure that begins when they emerge from Covid isolation worse for the wear. They set out on the Great Loop in hopes of rediscovering their adventuresome spirits aboard "Currently" a...

  
• 10.27.2023

  Great Loop Radio: A Challenging Season on the Inland Rivers

  Loopers on the inland rivers this year have experienced lock closures, low water levels, and a few other obstacles, but they have persevered!  Planning, organization, and attitude make all the difference! Join the Home Port Crew as we share what...

  
• 10.13.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Nebo-A Looper Favorite App

  Find out why Nebo is a Looper favorite app!  Nebo is part automated log book and part social sharing app. Loopers use it to find one another on the water, send messages, and share information while we cruise. Stephen WInter,...

  
• 10.06.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Story of our Loop-Bill & Molly, Rosborough RF246

  Join us as Bill & Molly share the story of their Great Loop adventure aboard their 25' Rosborough. They tell us why they selected that boat and how they made their small boat more liveable for the 300+ days they...

  
• 09.22.2023

  Great Loop Radio: The Reopening of the Illinois Waterway

  The AGLCA Home Port Crew fills you in on what to expect as the 120-day lock closure on the Illinois Waterway comes to and end and traffic starts moving. Looper Flotillas are expecting to start through the area on October...

  
• 09.15.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Removal of Abandoned & Derelict Vessels (ADVs)

  The Boat U.S. Foundation was just awarded a large grant to help resolve the growing issue of abandoned and derelict vessels (ADVs) on our waterways. Join us as Alanna Keating, the Foundation's Director of Outreach, gives the details of the...

  
• 09.08.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Story of our Loop-Mike & Lisa, 40' Sea Ray

  Mike & Lisa share the story of their Great Loop adventure aboard their 40' Sea Ray. Lisa started off as a reluctant spouse, but after attending an AGLCA Rendezvous, finding a boat, and getting some training from a captain, she...

  
• 09.01.2023

  Great Loop Radio: AIS for the Great Loop

  Robert Rice is back this week to talk about AIS for the Great Loop. He'll cover the different types of AIS, price points for some of the options, and why you should consider adding AIS for the Great Loop if...

  
• 08.25.2023

  Great Loop Radio: A Side Trip on the Upper Mississippi River

  The Upper Mississippi (from Port Charles to the Twin Cities) is a Great Loop side trip that may be considered "the road less traveled". Join us as Dick Heusinkveld shares the details of the side trip he and Louise took...

  
• 08.18.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Crowd Sourced Waterway Information

  Reviewing anchorages and marinas helps all boaters coming behind you and is also a great way to "pay it forward" for help you received along the way. Ted Stehle from Waterway Guide is our guest this week.  Ted shares how...

  
• 08.09.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Marine Science & Greener Boating on the Loop

  The International Seakeepers Society joins us this week to tell us how Loopers can help with marine science research while Looping. They'll also share details on how Loopers can be more environmentally friendly (and save money!) with tips from their...

  
• 08.04.2023

  Great Loop Radio: The Story of our Loop - Lee & Bake, 42' Grand Banks

  Our "Story of our Loop" series continues with Lee & Bake. They share the story of their Great Loop adventure aboard their 42' Grand Banks. Former sailors, Lee & Bake Looped in segments over three years. They'll talk about why...

  
• 07.28.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Fitness Aboard

  Cruising the Great Loop can be strenuous for the body and mind. Soon-to-be-Looper and live aboard fitness expert, Kevin Williams, joins us this week to discuss how to stay (or get) fit while Looping.  Whether you're looking to increase strength...

  
• 07.21.2023

  Great Loop Radio: A Great Loop Side Trip on Lake Superior

  This year's Loopers may have time for extra side trips while they wait for the Illinois Waterway locks to reopen. Mike & Deb Hervey, who have made multiple trips to the largest of the Great Lakes, tell you why you...

  
• 07.14.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Docking and Close Quarters Maneuvering

  Jay Kraft from Trawlers Great Lakes is back to give advice on how you can learn to better handle your boat during docking and other close quarters maneuvering. He'll share ideas on how to master these skills in preparation for...

  
• 06.30.2023

  Great Loop Radio-The Story of our Loop-Karen & Dave, Maine Cat P47

  Listen to hear the stories of Karen & Dave's Great Loop adventure aboard their Maine Cat P47. Karen & Dave talk about why they wanted to cruise the Great Loop, how they found their boat, how they prepared for the...

  
• 06.23.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Dealing with Commercial Traffic in New York Harbor

  The Great Loop will take you through some busy waterways, including New York Harbor. Our guest this week is Joseph Moceri, a Tug Captain who operates in New York. Joe will share his background and some insight into what his...

  
• 06.16.2023

  Great Loop Radio: The Basic Rules of the Road

  Robert Rice with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary joins us this week to talk about the Basic Rules of the Road. This is must-know information before starting the Great Loop. Whether you're a new boater or ready for a refresher,...

  
• 06.09.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Visiting the Thousand Islands

  AGLCA's Director, Kim Russo, shares one of her favorite areas on the Great Loop, the Thousand Island. This area along the St Lawrence River near where it meets Lake Ontario straddles the U.S./Canada border and includes scenic cruising, quaint towns,...

  
• 06.02.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Preparing your Boat for Hurricane Season

  With Hurricane Season upon us, we brought in John Fitzgerald, President and CEO of Saunders Yachtworks, to share what you should do now to be ready in case a storm heads your way. We'll talk about options like hauling out,...

  
• 05.12.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Cruising the Hudson River

  AGLCA Director, Kim Russo, shares why the Hudson River was one of her favorite parts of the Great Loop. She'll share suggested stops and things to see and do along this 150-mile stretch that takes you from New York City...

  
• 05.05.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Story of our Loop - Chris & Roger, Mainship 400

  Chris & Roger share the story of their Great Loop adventure aboard their Mainship 400 including details about the boat and why it was the perfect Great Loop boat for them. They'll also share how they went from being new...

  
• 04.28.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Advice for Reluctant Partners

  Are you (or your partner) reluctant to jump aboard for the Great Loop? This episode of our podcast offers advice for those who may not share their partner's enthusiasm about the Great Loop.  Jacque Bentley and Claudia Fuller are our...

  
• 04.21.2023

  Great loop Radio: The Best Boat for YOUR Loop

  What's the best boat for YOUR Loop?  Brent Bowlin and Michael Martin of Great Loop Yacht Sales share some things all Loopers should consider when buying their Great Loop boat and talk about some of the more popular makes and...

  
• 04.14.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Starlink on the Loop

  Curious about the best way to stay connected on the Loop? This week, Ben Stein of Panbo.com join us to talk about Starlink. He'll share which service plans and which hardware options are applicable for Loopers. We'll also cover Starlink's...

  
• 04.07.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Story of our Loop - Randy & Cathy, 58' West Bay Sonship

  Randy and Cathy share the story of their Great Loop adventure aboard their 58' West Bay Sonship including why they chose their boat, how they carry a motorcycle aboard, and how having it flagged in Honduras affected their Great Loop.

  
• 03.31.2023

  Great Loop Radio: A Day on the Loop

  At the request of one of our listeners, this week's episode talks about what a "standard" day is like on the Loop, what makes a great day, and what makes a stressful day.  Michael Martin is our guest and the...

  
• 03.24.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Tips for Locking Through

  Most Loopers will encounter more than 100 locks on their Great Loop adventure. On this episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast, Kim Russo shares some tips she learned along the way on how to handle all those locks.

  
• 03.17.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Story of our Loop - Wendy & Hal, Grand Banks 42 Classic

  Wendy & Hal share the story of their Great Loop adventure aboard their Grand Banks 42 Classic, Patriot. They'll tell why they chose the Grand Banks, what they did to prepare for the trip, their cruising preferences like how many...

  
• 03.10.2023

  Great Loop Radio: Looping Solo

  Join us as platinum Looper, Herb Seaton, shares information on Looping solo.  Herb is in the midst of his 3rd trip around the Great Loop solo.  He'll share some of the things he's learned along the way that make locking...