Experienced Pop boating customers often have goals for unique and spectacular journeys. According to Pop's, national sales manager, The Great Loop journey is on the bucket list for many seasoned boaters. Traveling the Great Loop attracts adventuresome boaters from all over North America. This is a 6,000-mile trip that takes at least 6 months to complete. It's fair to suggest that people with lots of available time who love boating adventures will have a blast on this journey.
According to Pop CEO Mike Adams, certain boat types will be required for a successful Great Loop trip. "Motor yachts, trawlers, houseboats, and sailboats are the most common Great Loop vessels," said Adams. "Many Pop sales consultants will ask buyers of these vessels if they're considering a Great Loop trip, and we see several every year."
Great Loop planners are thirsty for tips and trip knowledge. "We either provide specific answers based on our collective experience, or we help buyers get the information they need for this exciting journey."
The Pop sales team has assembled many of the planning tips they've heard over the years. "The Great Loop is a continuous waterway that runs through the eastern portion of North America, consisting of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), the Great Lakes, and the inland rivers.". "The loop covers approximately 6,000 miles and offers a unique and exciting way to explore the beauty and diversity of the North American landscape. Many boaters dream of completing the Great Loop, and for good reason." "It's a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that offers a combination of stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and an opportunity to explore the culture and history of the United States and Canada."
Boating the Great Loop creates a fully immersive experience, with the opportunity to stop at numerous ports, anchor in remote coves, and take in the scenery from a unique perspective. "Pop customers who've traveled the Great Loop said that along the route they've encountered a wide variety of landscapes, from pristine beaches and sparkling lakes to rugged mountains and dense forests." "Many boaters see a wide variety of wildlife, from dolphins and manatees to bald eagles and black bears."
Planning your Great Loop journey is essential if you want to make the most of your experience. This typically involves researching the waterways and ports of call, determining the best time of year to make the journey, and preparing your boat for the long journey ahead.
It is important to make plans based on your boat's size, draft, and cruising speed, as well as any height or width restrictions along the way. There are several resources available to help you plan your journey, including guidebooks, online forums, and boating associations.
Adams said the right boat is crucial to handle the long distances and varied conditions they will encounter along the way. "There are many types of boats to choose from, including sailboats, trawlers, motor yachts, and houseboats," added Adams. "Each type of boat has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to research and choose the one that best fits your needs. Pop is pleased to offer numerous Great Loop boat types at www.popsells.com."
Adams said Sailboats are an excellent option for boaters who prefer a more environmentally friendly way of traveling. "They rely on the wind to move, so there is no need to use fuel. Additionally, sailboats are usually smaller than other boats, which means they can navigate smaller waterways that larger boats cannot," stressed Adams. "However, sailboats can be slower than other boats, which means you'll need to allow more time. They can also be more challenging to operate than other boats, requiring more expertise in navigation and sailing."
Trawlers are popular among many Great Loop boaters. "Trawlers are known for their fuel efficiency and ability to move through waterways without producing large wakes, which can be important in more populated areas." "Trawlers are often slower than other types of boats, but they offer more stability in choppy waters, which can be a benefit during the Great Lakes portion of the journey."
Pop COO said motor yachts are ideal for the Great Loop as they are designed for speed and luxury. "Motor yachts offer a smooth ride and plenty of amenities, such as air conditioning, large living spaces, and even hot tubs." "However, motor yachts are typically the most expensive type of boat and can be less fuel-efficient than other options. They also may not be able to navigate as many smaller waterways as other boats."
Houseboats for the Great Loop are recommended as they are like floating homes, including kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms. "Houseboats are an excellent option for those who want to travel with family or friends or who want to have plenty of living space." "However, houseboats are often the slowest option and may not be able to navigate all the waterways along the Great Loop."
It's also important to consider the storage and provisioning of your boat, according to Cairney. "You'll need to ensure that you have enough food, water, and fuel for the journey, as well as appropriate storage for any supplies or equipment you'll need along the way."
One of the major challenges of the Great Loop is the sheer size of the trip. "Even if you're an experienced boater, traveling 6,000 miles can be a daunting prospect, and it's important to be prepared for the unexpected." "You'll need to be able to navigate through unfamiliar waters, deal with changing weather conditions, and cope with the occasional mechanical issue or other emergency."
Another challenge is the need to be self-sufficient. "While there are plenty of marinas, fuel stops, and other services along the way, there may be stretches where you need to be self-sufficient for several days at a time." "This means you'll need to be able to carry your own food, water, and other supplies, and be prepared to handle any repairs or other issues that arise."
Adams best summed up a Great Loop journey. "Despite these challenges, however, exploring the Great Loop on a boat can be an incredibly rewarding experience," he said. "Along the way, you'll meet a wide variety of people, from fellow boaters to friendly locals in the small towns and communities you visit. You'll also have the chance to explore the unique history and culture of the eastern United States, from the music of New Orleans to the colonial architecture of Savannah."