What is the Great Loop?
America's Great Loop is a continuous waterway that encompasses the eastern portion of North America, including the Atlantic and Gulf Intracoastal Waterways, the Great Lakes, the Canadian Heritage Canals, and the inland rivers of America's heartland. The entire route is roughly 6,000 miles long. Depending on their pace and path, it can take boaters anywhere from 6 months to over a year to complete the Loop.
The Loop offers a unique way to see some of North America's most beautiful and historical parts. Along the way, boaters will pass through major metropolitan areas, small towns, and scenic wilderness areas, experiencing diverse cultures, landscapes, and communities.
Boaters traveling the Great Loop typically use vessels for long-term cruising, such as trawlers, motor yachts, and sailboats. The Loop is suitable for boats of all sizes, and many boaters choose to live aboard their boats for the duration of the trip.
Overall, the Great Loop is an incredible adventure that allows boaters to explore some of the most beautiful and fascinating parts of North America, all from the unique perspective of the water.
Why now? Why not wait for retirement?
Many travelers along The Loop take on the adventure during their retirement. We (Alison and Chris) are still working full-time and far from retirement. Why go now and complicate things? We've seen far too often that life can be unpredictable, and our lifetime or abilities may not last as long as we hope. Sometimes we must grab hold of the moment and do something extraordinary.
For us, the decision to embark on the Great Loop was influenced by this philosophy. We wanted to make the most of our time and create unforgettable memories with our loved ones. We know that unexpected things can happen, and we want to live our lives to the fullest without waiting for the "right" time to go.
Traveling on a boat along the Great Loop allows us to disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle and connect with the world around us. Yes, the adults of our crew will still be working as we go. But this journey provides a chance to slow down and appreciate the beauty of nature and the richness of different cultures.
This trip will be a fun adventure and a valuable learning experience for our children. They will have the chance to learn about history, geography, and science in a unique way that is impossible to replicate in a traditional classroom.
In short, we are embarking on this journey because we want to make the most of our time, create unforgettable memories, and provide our children with a unique and valuable learning experience. The Great Loop is a challenging and rewarding adventure we can't wait to experience.
This adventure is dedicated to our family and friends, who have taught us to seek out everyday adventures and not to take this life that God has given us for granted.
