Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction
Step-by-Step Guide
Best Boats
Maintenance Checklist
Navigating Locks

Boat Preparation

  • Vessel Suitability: Ensure your boat is appropriate for the varied conditions of The Great Loop. Consider size, draft, and fuel capacity.
  • Maintenance Check: Complete a full maintenance check of the engine, hull, sails (if applicable), and all onboard systems.
  • Navigation Equipment: Update and test your GPS, radar, depth sounder, and charts (electronic and paper).
  • Safety Gear: Stock life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, EPIRB, and a first-aid kit.
  • Communication Devices: Check VHF radio, satellite phone, and ensure you have a reliable internet connection for weather updates and emergency communications.
  • Anchoring System: Verify the condition of your anchor, chain, and rope.
  • Fuel and Water Capacity: Assess fuel and water tanks for adequate capacity and consider additional storage options if needed.

Legal and Documentation

  • Boating License: Ensure your boating license is up-to-date and valid.
  • Registration and Insurance: Verify that your boat registration and insurance are current and cover The Great Loop journey.
  • Navigation Rights: If you're crossing international borders (e.g., into Canada), ensure you have the necessary documents and understand the customs procedures.

Provisioning and Supplies

  • Food and Water: Stock up on non-perishable food items and bottled water. Plan for regular stops to replenish fresh supplies.
  • Clothing and Personal Items: Pack clothing for all weather conditions, along with personal items and medications.
  • Spare Parts and Tools: Carry basic spare parts (e.g., bulbs, fuses, belts) and a toolkit for minor repairs.

Navigation Planning

  • Route Planning: Familiarize yourself with the route, noting marinas, fueling stations, and potential hazard areas.
  • Tide and Current Charts: Obtain tide and current charts for the entire route.
  • Weather Forecasting: Have access to reliable weather forecasting services and understand how to read them.

Skills and Knowledge

  • Boating Skills: Brush up on your boating skills, including navigation, docking, and emergency procedures.
  • Local Knowledge: Research the areas you will be visiting for local rules, marina protocols, and cultural insights.

Environmental Considerations

  • Eco-Friendly Practices: Plan for waste disposal, understand the regulations regarding discharge, and use eco-friendly products.
  • Wildlife Guidelines: Know how to interact responsibly with wildlife you may encounter along the route.

Emergency Preparedness

  • Emergency Plan: Have a clear plan for emergencies, including medical emergencies, mechanical failures, or extreme weather.
  • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including coast guard and marina contacts along your route.

Miscellaneous

  • Entertainment: Pack books, games, or other entertainment for leisure time.
  • Photography Equipment: If you're planning to document your journey, ensure you have cameras, chargers, and storage media.
  • Physical Maps and Guides: In addition to digital navigation aids, carry physical maps and waterway guides.

Remember, preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable journey.

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Contact Info

Important Information:

This application is intended to instruct your contacts on how to proceed and who to call in case of an emergency. Always make sure your contacts have received your Float Plan. There are many roadblocks on the internet that can prevent your Float Plan and reminder messages from being delivered to your contacts. Always have a charged VHF Radio and Cell Phone with you when out on the water. And always have a backup plan!