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

How to Choose the Right Weather App for You

Not all weather apps are created equal—and not every cruiser needs the same kind of forecast. Here’s how to choose the right marine weather app based on how you cruise and what kind of information you trust most.

Alison Major 8/6/25 Alison Major 8/6/25

3 Mistakes Boaters Make with Weather Apps

Weather apps are incredibly useful—but they’re not magic. Here are three common ways boaters misread or misuse them, and what to do instead so your next cruising leg isn’t a white-knuckle ride.

Alison Major 8/4/25 Alison Major 8/4/25

What to Look for in a Marine Forecast (Even If You’re Not a Weather Nerd)

You don’t need to be a meteorologist to cruise safely—but you do need to know how to read a marine forecast. In this post, we’ll show you the 3 key things we always check, the red flags we’ve learned to watch for, and the one clue that almost always means a front is coming.

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 7/28/25 Alison Major 7/28/25

Weather Wisdom for Cruisers: Reading the Forecast & Staying Flexible

When the forecast looks fine but the water says otherwise, how do you know when to go or stay put? Here’s how to build confidence in your weather-watching skills and stay safe on the water — no matter where you’re cruising.

Alison Major 4/18/25 Alison Major 4/18/25

Caught in a Storm: Lessons Learned from Rough Weather

Weather on the water can change in an instant, and every storm is a lesson in preparation, patience, and adaptability. From sudden squalls in the Gulf of Mexico to scrambling to close hatches before a downpour, here’s what we’ve learned about handling rough weather and staying safe when conditions turn.

Alison Major 4/16/25 Alison Major 4/16/25

What’s in Our Storm Kit? The Essential Gear Every Cruiser Should Have

Storms are an inevitable part of cruising, but being prepared makes all the difference. From anchor backups to emergency lighting, here’s what’s in our storm kit and why you should build your own before the weather turns.

Alison Major 4/14/25 Alison Major 4/14/25

Anchoring for Storms: Best Practices for Staying Put in Rough Weather

Anchoring in rough weather requires more than just dropping the hook and hoping for the best. Different boats behave differently, and understanding anchor choices, scope calculations, and storm anchoring techniques can make all the difference.

Alison Major 3/10/25 Alison Major 3/10/25

How to Read Marine Weather Forecasts Like a Pro (Without Being a Meteorologist)

Weather can make or break a cruising day. For Loopers, understanding marine forecasts isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for safety and comfort. But with so many maps, numbers, and apps, where do you even start? Let’s break it down into what really matters, so you can confidently plan your passages and avoid surprises on the water.

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

Navigating Common Waterway Hazards: How to Stay Safe

The waterways can be unpredictable, with hazards like low visibility, shifting shoals, and floating debris posing risks to boaters. Understanding these dangers and knowing how to navigate them safely is key to an enjoyable time on the water. In this post, we’ll break down common waterway hazards and how to handle them, so you can cruise with confidence.

Alison Major 12/30/24 Alison Major 12/30/24

Navigating & Weather Planning on the Great Loop: Our Favorite Tools and Tips

Planning a safe and enjoyable journey on the Great Loop starts with the right tools. In this guide, we share our favorite weather and navigation apps to help you navigate with confidence. Discover the best apps for tracking tides, monitoring anchor drag, and planning routes for open water crossings. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to the Loop, these tools will keep you informed and prepared for every leg of your adventure.