Alison Major 3/10/26 Alison Major 3/10/26

From Blank Page to Published: Getting Your Loop Blog Started Quickly

Starting your Great Loop blog doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These tips remove friction and help you get from a blank page to a first post you’ll be proud of.

Alison Major 3/5/26 Alison Major 3/5/26

How to Choose the Right Platform for Your Loop Story

Blog, YouTube, newsletter, social media… so many ways to share your Great Loop story. Here’s how to pick the platform that fits your style, your time, and your audience.

Alison Major 10/17/25 Alison Major 10/17/25

Boat Cards: Your Floating Calling Card on the Loop

Ever wonder how other Loopers make friends so easily? Enter the boat card: a simple, friendly way to connect with fellow cruisers and leave your mark along the way.

Alison Major 7/25/25 Alison Major 7/25/25

Staying in Touch While Cruising: Tools for Email, Messaging & More

Cruising doesn’t mean going off the grid entirely. Here’s how our family stays connected with email, messaging apps, video calls, and offline tools—whether we’re at anchor, underway, or out of cell range.

Alison Major 7/23/25 Alison Major 7/23/25

How to Use Starlink on a Boat (and When It’s Worth It)

Starlink has transformed how cruisers stay connected—but it’s not always plug-and-play. Here’s what to know about setup, usage, and whether the cost is worth it for your cruising lifestyle.

Alison Major 7/21/25 Alison Major 7/21/25

Offline Cruising: Best Apps for No-Signal Zones

Cruising off-grid? Here’s a curated list of the best offline-friendly apps for boaters, from charts and weather to books and entertainment.

Alison Major 12/18/24 Alison Major 12/18/24

The Joy of Virtual Games

Discover the joy of staying connected this holiday season through virtual games! From online board games to multiplayer console favorites like Mario Kart, virtual game nights bring laughter, teamwork, and quality time with loved ones—no matter the distance. Explore tips and ideas to make your next game night unforgettable!

Alison Major 12/13/24 Alison Major 12/13/24

Staying Connected with New Friends on the Loop

As you travel along the Great Loop, meeting new people is one of the highlights of the journey. Staying connected with these new friends, especially during the holiday season, can add so much joy to your adventure. Whether it’s through apps like nebo for Loopers, WhatsApp for cruisers worldwide, or Facebook Messenger Kids for boat kids, there are plenty of ways to keep in touch. You can also spot familiar boats on AIS or watch for them on nebo as you visit new anchorages and marinas. Keeping these connections alive makes the Loop even more special!

Alison Major 8/14/24 Alison Major 8/14/24

Discovering Docktails: A Fun and Inclusive Tradition on the Great Loop

"Docktails" is a term used in the boating community to describe informal social gatherings held on docks or boats. These gatherings are an excellent way for boaters to unwind, share stories, and enjoy each other's company. Typically, "docktails" involve everyone bringing their beverage of choice, whether a cocktail, soft drink, or even just water.

Alison Major 8/5/24 Alison Major 8/5/24

The Hardest Parts of the Great Loop

The Great Loop is an incredible adventure, offering countless unforgettable experiences for you and your family. However, like any journey, it comes with challenges that Loopers must navigate.

Alison Major 7/27/24 Alison Major 7/27/24

Staying Connected During Special Occasions

When your family moves onto a boat to travel along America’s Great Loop for a year, there will be moments when you or your crew miss home. Celebrating special occasions is important, and being on the Great Loop doesn’t mean missing out on these celebrations.

Alison Major 7/16/24 Alison Major 7/16/24

Meeting Other Kids While Cruising the Great Loop

One of the most common questions from families considering the Great Loop is how kids can meet and connect with other kids along the journey. Social interaction is crucial for kids, and while the experience of meeting other kids on the Loop can vary, there are plenty of opportunities for making friends and staying connected.

Alison Major 7/4/24 Alison Major 7/4/24

Friends & Family Back Home: How to Stay Connected

Embarking on your Great Loop adventure brings a thrilling sense of freedom and exploration. Still, it can raise concerns about maintaining relationships with those you leave behind. Whether you’re worried about staying in touch or your friends and family are anxious about staying connected, there are plenty of ways to bridge the distance and keep everyone in the loop (ha!).