Considering the Great Loop? A Look for Picnic Boat Owners
For those who appreciate the joys of cruising in a comfortable and stylish Hinckley Picnic Boat, the idea of a long-distance adventure might spark interest. The Great Loop presents a unique opportunity: a circumnavigation of the eastern United States and part of Canada via an interconnected network of waterways. This journey offers a diverse cruising experience through various landscapes and communities. Completing the entire loop is often seen as a significant boating achievement. While there isn't one fixed route, a general counter-clockwise direction is often favored to take advantage of river currents. The trip typically takes around a year, though it can be done in shorter sections or at a faster pace.
Understanding the Great Loop's Waterways:
The Great Loop utilizes a system of both natural and man-made waterways. This includes the Atlantic and Gulf Intracoastal Waterways (ICW), the Great Lakes, the Erie Canal, and inland rivers like the Mississippi and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway. A common approach is to travel counter-clockwise, which generally means navigating the river systems with the current from the Great Lakes down towards the Gulf. The typical seasonal progression involves cruising the Great Lakes and Canadian waterways in the summer, moving south on the rivers in the fall, spending the winter in Florida or the Gulf Coast, and then heading north on the Atlantic ICW in the spring. While the Mississippi River is an option for the southern leg, many boaters prefer the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway due to less commercial barge traffic and better access to marinas and fuel. The route also offers choices for crossing Florida (via Lake Okeechobee or the Keys) and reaching Chesapeake Bay (through the Dismal Swamp Canal or the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal). Access to the Great Lakes from the Hudson River can involve all or part of the Erie Canal or the Oswego Canal leading to Lake Ontario and potentially the Trent-Severn Waterway in Canada. Side trips are common, allowing for further exploration.
Time Commitment and Pace:
Many boaters spend about a year completing the Great Loop. However, it's also feasible to complete the journey in segments over multiple years. Some choose a faster pace, though this can mean less time for exploration.
Boat Considerations for Your Picnic Boat:
A variety of boats can undertake the Great Loop. For Picnic Boat owners, here are some practical points to consider:
Dimensions: Key boat dimensions include length, beam (width), air height (height above the waterline), and draft (depth below the waterline). While your Picnic Boat's length and beam are likely suitable, air height is a notable factor, especially concerning fixed bridges like the one in Chicago. A general guideline is to aim for under 19 feet 6 inches. Draft is also important, particularly in inland waterways and some Canadian areas. A draft of less than 5 feet is generally recommended.
Fuel Range: A fuel range of approximately 300 miles is often suggested for the Loop. Consider your Picnic Boat's fuel capacity and plan your stops accordingly. Both gasoline and diesel engines are used, with diesel often favored for fuel availability along the way.
Connecting with the Looper Community:
Those cruising the Great Loop often identify themselves with a white burgee, switching to a gold one upon completion. The America's Great Loop Cruisers' Association (AGLCA) is a helpful organization providing information, networking opportunities, and gatherings for Loopers. This community can be a valuable source of up-to-date information on various aspects of the journey.
Experience and Preparation:
Prior boating experience is certainly beneficial. While you'll gain experience in different types of waterways as you go, a basic understanding of navigation, including tides and currents, is important. Having NOAA nautical charts and a NOAA radio is also recommended for safety.
Considering the Costs and Challenges:
The overall cost of the Great Loop can vary significantly based on factors like boat size, accommodation choices (marinas vs. anchoring), dining preferences, and side trips. It's a journey that can be undertaken on a range of budgets. Some challenges to be aware of include navigating seasonal weather patterns (winter ice in the north, summer hurricanes in the south), operating in locks, and managing river currents. Planning for fuel and marina stops, especially in certain river sections, is advisable. Insurance for a multi-country trip can also require some research. Swimming opportunities along the Loop may be limited due to various factors.
The Looper Demographic:
Many who undertake the Great Loop are retired individuals. While less common, some families complete the journey with children, often finding it to be an educational experience.
A Bit of History:
The waterways that make up the Great Loop have a long history of use. The concept of the "Great Loop" as a defined cruising route gained more prominence with the work of the Stobbs family and the formation of the AGLCA. Modern technology has made certain aspects of the journey, like communication and provisioning, more convenient.
In Conclusion:
The Great Loop offers a unique and extended boating experience, providing a chance to explore the diverse waterways and landscapes of eastern North America. It involves some planning and adaptability, particularly regarding boat dimensions and fuel range for Picnic Boats. The supportive community of Loopers and resources like the AGLCA can be valuable assets for those considering this adventure.