Everything You Need to Know About the Great Loop

The Great Loop is one of the most renowned long-distance cruising routes in the world. It is a continuous waterway loop that allows recreational boaters to circumnavigate the eastern portion of the United States—and part of Canada—without ever crossing open ocean for extended periods. Spanning approximately 6,000 miles, the Great Loop combines rivers, canals, lakes, and coastal waterways into one unforgettable journey.

For many boaters, completing the Great Loop represents a lifetime achievement, blending adventure, seamanship, and cultural exploration.

Overview of the Route

The Great Loop is most commonly traveled clockwise, though some boaters choose to complete it counterclockwise depending on weather patterns and personal preference.

Primary Waterways Included:

• The Great Lakes

• The Erie Canal

• The Hudson River

• The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)

• The Florida Loop

• The Gulf of Mexico

• The Tennessee–Tombigbee Waterway

• The Tennessee, Ohio, and Mississippi Rivers

These waterways connect naturally and artificially, creating a navigable loop suitable for a wide range of cruising vessels.

Major Segments of the Great Loop

• The Great Lakes

The journey often begins on the Great Lakes, typically Lake Michigan. This portion offers expansive freshwater cruising, scenic coastlines, and vibrant boating communities. While breathtaking, the lakes can produce ocean-like conditions, making weather awareness critical.

• Erie Canal

The Erie Canal connects Lake Erie to the Hudson River and serves as a historic and practical passage through New York State. Boaters transit a series of locks and low bridges, passing through charming canal towns with strong boating traditions.

• Hudson River

Flowing south toward New York City, the Hudson River provides dramatic scenery and a direct route from upstate New York to the Atlantic Ocean. This stretch blends natural beauty with iconic city views.

• Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)

The ICW runs parallel to the Atlantic coast from New York to Florida, offering protected inland cruising. It allows boaters to avoid offshore conditions while passing through coastal towns, historic ports, and major cities.

• Florida Loop

Boaters can cross Florida using either:

• The Okeechobee Waterway, a popular inland route with bridges and locks, or

• The Florida Keys, which involves more open water and weather-dependent planning.

Both routes reconnect with the Gulf of Mexico.

• Gulf of Mexico

The Gulf portion typically involves longer cruising legs between ports. While conditions are often manageable, weather windows must be carefully selected.

• Tennessee–Tombigbee Waterway

Often called the “Tenn-Tom,” this man-made canal system connects the Gulf of Mexico to the Tennessee River. It is widely regarded as one of the most enjoyable segments due to its calm waters, scenic surroundings, and boater-friendly facilities.

• Inland River System

The final stretch includes the Tennessee, Ohio, and Mississippi Rivers, eventually leading back to the Great Lakes. This segment introduces powerful currents, commercial traffic, and lock systems, requiring careful navigation and planning.

Vessel Considerations

The Great Loop can be completed by a variety of boats, but most successful Loopers choose vessels that meet specific criteria.

Common Vessel Types:

• Trawlers

• Motor yachts

• Tug-style cruisers

• Loop-capable sailboats (with mast unstepped)

Key Requirements:

• Air draft under 19 feet (bridge clearance)

• Reliable engines and systems

• Comfortable living accommodations

• Sufficient fuel capacity and range

Boats typically range from 30 to 55 feet in length.

Timeframe and Planning

Most boaters complete the Great Loop in 6 months to 1 year, depending on pace, seasonal timing, and travel preferences. Many follow seasonal weather patterns to avoid extreme heat, cold, or hurricane seasons.

Planning Considerations:

• Lock schedules and delays

• Fuel availability

• Maintenance and repairs

• Weather windows

• International regulations (for Canadian waters)

Costs and Lifestyle

The cost of completing the Great Loop varies widely based on boat size, travel pace, and personal lifestyle. Expenses typically include fuel, dockage, maintenance, food, insurance, and occasional repairs.

Many Loopers describe the lifestyle as a balance between:

• Adventure and routine

• Social marina life and quiet anchorages

• Travel and floating home living

Cultural and Personal Experience

Beyond navigation, the Great Loop is deeply about people and places. Boaters experience:

• Small river towns and major cities

• Historic canals and modern marinas

• A strong Looper community known for camaraderie and shared support

For many, the friendships formed and experiences gained are just as meaningful as completing the route itself.

The Great Loop is more than a boating route—it is a journey through America’s waterways, history, and cultures. It challenges navigational skills, rewards careful planning, and offers an unparalleled cruising experience.

Whether completed as a personal goal, retirement adventure, or extended cruising lifestyle, the Great Loop remains one of the most iconic and achievable long-distance boating adventures in the world.

America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association. (n.d.). Great Loop route map [Map, map illustration]. GreatLoop.org. Retrieved February 9, 2026, from https://www.greatloop.org/great-loop-route.html