Alison Major 7/14/25 Alison Major 7/14/25

The Best Internet Gear for Boaters: Cellular, Satellite, and Wi-Fi Boosters

Wondering how to stay connected while working from a boat? Here’s a look at the gear we rely on—Starlink, cellular data, and Wi-Fi boosters—and how we manage power, prep offline work, and stay productive no matter where we’re anchored.

Alison Major 7/11/25 Alison Major 7/11/25

Upgrading Your Boat Mid-Loop: What You Need to Know

Thinking of switching boats while Looping? Here’s how to handle the logistics—from selling and buying, to updating insurance, and transferring all your gear without losing momentum.

Alison Major 7/9/25 Alison Major 7/9/25

Do I Need Boater Certifications for the Great Loop?

If you’re planning to cruise America’s Great Loop, you might be wondering—do I need a boating license? Here’s what you actually need to know about certifications, state requirements, and how to get legal fast.

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

From Landlubber to Captain: How (and Why) to Track Your Boating Experience

Even if you’re just starting out, keeping a log of your miles, engine hours, and boating skills pays off. Here’s what to track, how to do it, and why it matters—for insurance, resale, and your own confidence.

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

Cruising Canada with Kids: Favorite Stops & Surprises

From splash pads to historic canals, Canada’s waterways are full of family-friendly surprises. Here are our favorite stops, snack breaks, and nature escapes while cruising north with kids.

Alison Major 7/2/25 Alison Major 7/2/25

The Triangle Loop: Is It Worth the Detour?

If your boat can clear 17 feet, you have the option to take the scenic and cultural Triangle Loop via the Champlain Canal and St. Lawrence River. Here’s what to expect and why it might be worth it.

Alison Major 6/30/25 Alison Major 6/30/25

How to Check In to Canada by Boat (and What You’ll Need)

Cruising across the border? Here’s how to check in by boat using the ROAM and ArriveCAN apps, plus what to expect from customs agents and how to find official reporting sites.

Alison Major 6/27/25 Alison Major 6/27/25

Moving Days vs. Rest Days: Why You Need Both

Cruising the Great Loop is more than just making miles. Learn how rest days can keep your crew happier, your boat in better shape, and your Loop experience more enjoyable.

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

How to Plan a Loop Itinerary Without Burning Out

Cruising the Great Loop is an adventure, not a race. Learn how to plan your itinerary with enough flexibility, rest days, and buffer time to avoid burnout.

Alison Major 6/23/25 Alison Major 6/23/25

How Far Should You Cruise in a Day? Here’s What Most Loopers Do

Wondering how far you should travel each day on the Great Loop? Here’s what most cruisers do, with realistic distances by boat type, region, and season.

Alison Major 6/20/25 Alison Major 6/20/25

Erie Canal History: The “Folly” That Changed America

From mules on towpaths to booming Midwest towns, the Erie Canal’s history is full of surprises. Here’s how this waterway reshaped the country, and why it still matters to cruisers today.

Alison Major 6/18/25 Alison Major 6/18/25

Choosing Your Route: Erie Canal, Oswego, or Triangle Loop?

Planning your Great Loop route through New York? Here’s a practical breakdown of the Erie Canal, Oswego Canal, and Triangle Loop routes: based on air draft, timing, and adventure level.

Alison Major 6/16/25 Alison Major 6/16/25

Erie Canal Locks 101: What to Expect, What to Bring, and How to Stay Calm

New to locking through? Here’s your practical guide to Erie Canal locks, with gear checklists, calm communication tips, and family-friendly advice for a smooth experience.

Alison Major 6/13/25 Alison Major 6/13/25

Weekend Warriors vs. Full-Time Cruisers: Sharing the Water in Summer

Summer weekends bring big crowds and fast boats. Here’s how full-time cruisers can adjust their expectations and share the water with part-timers and vacationers.

Alison Major 6/11/25 Alison Major 6/11/25

Cruiser Etiquette During Busy Season: How to Share Tight Spaces Without Losing Your Cool

Summer cruising can get crowded—anchorages, locks, marinas, and tempers! Here’s how to practice good cruiser etiquette and keep things calm during peak season.

Alison Major 6/9/25 Alison Major 6/9/25

Can You Anchor Anywhere? How to Find Good Spots in a Crowded Cruising Season

Wondering if you have to anchor in a marked anchorage? Learn how to find safe, legal spots to drop the hook, even during peak boating season.

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

Safety Drills for Cruising Families: How to Practice Without Scaring the Kids

Emergency drills don’t have to be scary. Learn how to prepare your cruising family with calm, age-appropriate safety practice that builds confidence and skills.

Alison Major 6/4/25 Alison Major 6/4/25

What to Do If Someone Falls Overboard: A Step-by-Step Plan for Cruisers

Shorthanded crew? Cruising with kids? Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide for what to do if someone falls overboard, designed for real-world conditions and small crews.

Alison Major 6/2/25 Alison Major 6/2/25

Daily Safety Checks Aboard: 10 Things to Look For Before You Move

Before you pull anchor or cast off lines, a quick daily safety check can prevent a world of headaches underway. Here’s a simple, repeatable list of 10 things to inspect before moving your boat—customizable for your cruising style and vessel type.

Alison Major 5/30/25 Alison Major 5/30/25

Family Fun on the Hudson River: Historic Sites, Parks, and Hidden Gems

Cruising the Hudson River with kids? Discover the best riverfront towns, parks, and museums that are actually accessible from your boat—plus a few hidden gems worth planning for.