Alison Major 8/1/25 Alison Major 8/1/25

Keeping Cruising Fun: Adjusting the Plan to Match the Energy

When the crew’s tired, the weather’s questionable, or a stop just isn’t what you hoped—it’s okay to pivot. Here’s how adjusting your plans along the Great Loop can actually make your experience better (and save your sanity).

Alison Major 7/30/25 Alison Major 7/30/25

Buffer Days & Bailouts: Real-Life Examples of Flexible Planning on the Loop

Cruising the Great Loop isn’t about rigid schedules—it’s about building in margin. From weather delays to surprise detours, here’s how we used buffer days and bailouts to keep our journey safe, sane, and flexible.

Alison Major 5/16/25 Alison Major 5/16/25

Gratitude on the Great Loop: What This Trip Teaches You About Enough

Cruising the Great Loop shifts your relationship with space, stuff, and the pace of life. Here’s how living on a boat taught us to notice the little things, appreciate simple joys, and redefine what “enough” really means.

Alison Major 5/14/25 Alison Major 5/14/25

Why We Had the Kids Journal on the Great Loop (and What I’d Do Differently)

Journaling helped our kids remember and reflect on our Great Loop adventure—but it wasn’t always smooth sailing. Here’s what worked, what didn’t, and why I created prompt journals to make it easier for other families.

Alison Major 5/12/25 Alison Major 5/12/25

5 Simple Prompts to Help You Remember Your Great Loop Journey (Even if You’re Not a Journaler!)

No time for journaling? No problem. These five short prompts make it easy to capture your Great Loop adventure—whether you’re writing in a notebook, app, or one of our kid-friendly travel journals.

Alison Major 4/11/25 Alison Major 4/11/25

Instagram vs. Reality: The Truth About Cruising Full-Time

Social media makes full-time cruising look like a dream—gorgeous sunsets, endless adventure, and carefree days on the water. But what’s the real story? Let’s take a fun, side-by-side look at the expectations vs. reality of life aboard.

Alison Major 4/9/25 Alison Major 4/9/25

How to Stay Positive When Things Go Wrong on the Water

Setbacks are inevitable on the Great Loop, but they don’t have to ruin your experience. From mechanical failures to bad weather days, here’s how to shift your mindset and handle challenges with grace—so you can enjoy the journey, no matter what comes your way.

Alison Major 4/7/25 Alison Major 4/7/25

Behind the Scenes of Loop Life: The Hard Days You Don’t See on Social Media

The Great Loop is full of breathtaking views and unforgettable moments, but what about the days that don’t make it to Instagram? Let’s talk about the maintenance struggles, weather challenges, and unpredictable realities that come with life on the water.

Alison Major 4/4/25 Alison Major 4/4/25

Overcoming the ‘What Ifs’: Addressing Common Fears About the Great Loop

Worried about storms, breakdowns, or feeling isolated on the Great Loop? You’re not alone. Let’s tackle the biggest fears about Looping and how to manage them so you can embrace the adventure with confidence.

Alison Major 4/2/25 Alison Major 4/2/25

Finding the Right Boat for a Reluctant Partner

The right boat can make or break the Great Loop experience—especially for a hesitant spouse or partner. Here’s how to choose a vessel that balances comfort, safety, and ease of cruising so both of you can enjoy the journey.

Alison Major 3/31/25 Alison Major 3/31/25

Easing the Transition: How to Make the Great Loop Feel More Like Home

Moving onto a boat—even temporarily—can feel like a big adjustment. But with a few intentional choices, you can create a space that feels comfortable, familiar, and homey, even while cruising.

Alison Major 3/28/25 Alison Major 3/28/25

The Art of Slowing Down: Embracing the Journey, Not Just the Destination

One of the greatest lessons cruising teaches you is patience. Whether it’s waiting out bad weather, dealing with mechanical delays, or simply taking the scenic route, life on the water isn’t about rushing from point A to point B—it’s about savoring the journey.

Alison Major 3/26/25 Alison Major 3/26/25

The Unwritten Rules of the Cruising Community

The cruising community is like a floating small town—one where generosity and camaraderie are the foundation. From sharing tools to checking on each other’s boats after storms, boaters look out for one another in ways that go beyond the norm. Here’s a look at the unspoken rules that keep this incredible community thriving.

Alison Major 3/24/25 Alison Major 3/24/25

Cruising Challenges & How to Overcome Them

Every cruiser faces setbacks, whether it’s mechanical failures, unpredictable weather, or the occasional technology meltdown. But these challenges don’t have to ruin your journey—they can actually make you a better boater. Here’s how to navigate the rough patches with patience, resilience, and a little help from the cruising community.