Planning Your Next Boating Excursion Along the Great Loop
If you ask a boating enthusiast what one of their bucket list journeys would be, there’s a pretty good chance they’re going to mention the Great Loop.
What is the Great Loop?
Stretching across 6,000 miles of the Eastern United States, the Great Loop is a system of waterways that is made up of both natural and man-made waterways. This includes the Atlantic and Gulf Intracoastal waterways, the Great Lakes, the Erie Canal, and both the Mississippi and Tennessee-Tombigbee waterway.
While there isn’t a single route of itinerary to follow in order to complete the loop, many will plan their voyage based on the seasonal complications that come with this side of U.S.
In order to avoid both icy winters and summer hurricane season, boaters typically head through the Great Lakes and Canadian waterways during the summer months, before making their way down the Mississippi or Tennessee-Tombigbee waterways in the fall. From there, they can cross the Gulf of Mexico and Florida during the winter months, and then head back up the Atlantic Intracoastal network in the spring.
Traversing the Great Loop timewise can depend on an individual boater’s speed and itinerary, but the route can take as little as two months to do — or, in more likely scenarios, up to a full year.
To successfully complete this excursion, the ideal vessel will be one that can act as both a mode of transportation and sleeping accommodations simultaneously — such as trawlers, motor yachts, and substantial sailboats.
While you can definitely break up the journey and complete segments of the Great Loop at different times, if you want to complete the whole thing in one shot, there’s going to be quite a bit of preparation for this transient boating experience.
Safety and Preparation for a Transient Boating Voyage
It’s important to get your vessel inspected before heading out on a quick trip, so it’s especially important to make sure your boat is good to go before embarking on a months-long journey all across the Eastern Seaboard.
Have a trusted boat mechanic take a look at your watercraft or take advantage of the free Vessel Safety Check program that the U.S. Coast Guard Auxillary offers. These vessel examiners are trained to look for common issues that can occur, such as the overall condition of the boat, navigation lights, proper display of numbers, fire extinguishers, proper ventilation, backfire flame control, and more — and they can complete this check just about anywhere (yes, even in your driveway) in under an hour.
During this check, they’ll also make sure you have the right amount of personal flotation devices, proper marine safety and navigation equipment, and feel comfortable handling any potential emergency situations that could pop up.
It’s important to file a float plan with someone who you trust — and who will be on dry land while you’re out on the boat. An effective float plan should detail your exact route, including specific departure times, destinations, and estimated return times. It should also list your boat’s make, model, size, and capacity, along with the contact information for everyone on board.
→ Morningstar Marinas Tip: Download the Coast Guard’s official float plan template here to make things even easier!
Trip Planning & Logistics
Since you’ve mapped out your travel schedule and chosen a few marinas for docking along your journey, it’s a good idea to call ahead and secure a slip in advance. Naturally, plans may shift due to weather conditions, unexpected delays, or quicker travel times, so be sure to keep the marinas informed as your itinerary evolves.
Visit These Key Stops Along the Great Loop
Visit Morningstar Marina’s Little Creek in Norfolk, VA
Situated just off the open water, our Little Creek facilities offer convenient access to the Chesapeake Bay and are only a short boat ride from the James River and the Atlantic Ocean.
Come experience our state-of-the-art, storm-resistant Bellingham dock system firsthand, or stop by to refuel — whether it’s for your boat or yourself! We’re also happy to help you head in to Norfolk when you stop at our marinas on your excursion, providing different transportation options and many local attractions are just a short walk away.
Spend time exploring nearby Norfolk, Virginia, home to tons of history and unique experiences that are a must-see when in the area. Hailed as a major shipbuilding center and shipping export hub back in the 1700s, be sure to stop by Norfolk’s Hampton Roads Naval Museum. Afterward, check out some of the area’s best restaurants over in the Waterside District before heading back to your vessel for the night!
Stop by our Southport Marina along the ICW in North Carolina
Situated about thirty miles southeast of Wilmington, North Carolina, you’ll find the charming little town of Southport. This scenic spot is a favorite among Loopers because of its easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway. Plus, the Cape Fear River and Bald Head Island aren’t too far away, either!
Did you know that Southport is also a popular filming destination? If you’ve ever seen Safe Haven, A Walk to Remember, or Dawson’s Creek, then you’ve already caught a few glimpses of the beauty of Southport! You can even go on a self-guided walking tour to see some of the exact filming locations for a variety of TV shows and movies!
Of course, if you’re in the area, you must stop by Morningstar Marina’s Southport location as you venture up or down the coast. Located at marker 2A on the ICW, the marina is just a short walk from downtown Southport. And, if you’re staying overnight, you’ll appreciate our brand-new docks, complimentary WiFi, and a fully stocked ship store — ensuring you have everything you need before continuing your journey along the coast!
Don’t Forget the Golden Isles on St. Simons Island in Georgia
With beautiful beaches, scenic marshes, and towering oak trees draped in Spanish moss, this stop on the Golden Isles is a dream for nature lovers everywhere. But there are plenty of things to do for everyone! Explore historic sites like Fort Frederica, climb the local lighthouse for amazing views, or check out the nearby charming village with great shops and seafood spots.
As you’re coming along the ICW, be sure to make a stop at marker 675 to visit Morningstar Marina’s St. Simon Island location. This marina was designed with larger vessels and sailboats in mind, thanks to its deep waters and lack of vertical obstructions.
Enjoy the convenience of our call-ahead concierge service, a courtesy car for inland trips, and a complimentary fresh-water rinse for every boat that docks with us. Whether you’re heading up or down the ICW, this is a stop you won’t want to miss!
Spend the Night with Morningstar Marinas
As you embark on the Great Loop, add Morningstar Marinas to your itinerary! Learn more about our transient locations for boat overnight dockage, and reserve your slip before your upcoming trip.