Newbie Question on Great Loop

[chrisjul]

Newbie here...been lurking a bit and researching the Great Loop. I live in Jacksonville and about to retire. The Great Loop looks like a nice first adventure...I have some experience with small power boats.

What would be considered an ideal boat for this trip for 2 people? Comfort, economy and ease of handling are key issues.

Thanks in advance and Great Forum!

Chris

[Steve Rust]

Could you be a little more specific? What is the budget? New or used? While I am not a powerboat guy I have a friend who had a Grand Banks 32 trawler. I really like that boat and think it would be a good choice on the used market.

[jsschieff]

There is as association for people who are or will cruise the great loop called the Great Loop Cruisers Association. www.greatloop.org. I have read their newsletters and from what I can see the majority of members who do the great loop have powerboats ranging from 35-feet to about 48-feet, with many between 40 and 45 feet. Most are trawler-types like Mainship, Grand Banks, Albin etc., but there are plenty of people who do it in express style powerboats. Pilothouse single-screw powerboats like the American Tug 34 and the Nordic Tug 37 and 42 are also popular. People who do the loop in power catamarans like the PDQ 34 or Endeavour powercats seem to be pleased with their boats.

One design feature to look for is ease of access around the decks -- when you are handling lines in locks it is safer and more manageable if you can move around the decks easily.

There is another group that has a blog site for Great Loop enthusiasts -- you may be able to find it at Samurai Hosting.

[High Cotton]

Originally Posted by Steve Rust

Could you be a little more specific? What is the budget? New or used? While I am not a powerboat guy I have a friend who had a Grand Banks 32 trawler. I really like that boat and think it would be a good choice on the used market.

Steve, I agree 100% with you....
a 32' GRAND BANKS would be at the top of my list for that trip!

[rwhit323]

Chris,

I too intend to do the loop next year starting in Jacksonville FL. However, I am a sailor at heart and plan to continue exploring the Bahamas, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean after that trip. Therefore I have opted for a catalac 9m catamaran (made in England). it has twin desiel engines for the times I'm motoring, and sails when I can use them. I draw 30" and with my tabernacle rig mast I can go under bridges as low as 10". And yes the Great Loop Cruisers Association is a great place for info.

Rick