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Embark on an unforgettable journey with us as we recount our Great Loop adventure aboard our Mainship 400, PartnerShip II. Explore the highs, the lows, and the breathtaking moments that defined our incredible voyage.
Our great loop journey
We set out on our Great Loop adventure on March 28, 2024, completing the 4,371-nautical-mile trip in February 2025. The journey took us through 15 states and Canada, navigating 105 locks and passing landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and the St. Louis Arch. Our route followed the Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee, and Tenn-Tom rivers to Mobile Bay, then along the Gulf Intracoastal to Apalachicola, across the Gulf of Mexico, and through the Okeechobee Waterway—ending back at our home port in Delray Beach, Florida.
PartnerShip II: perfectly equipped
Like most Mainships, ours originally required shore power or the generator for cooking and hot water. To make things more self-sufficient, we swapped out the electric stove for a propane one—so we could cook anytime, anywhere. We also connected the water heater to the engine’s cooling system, giving us hot showers every day without the need for shore power. And with the addition of an easy-to-use davit system, launching the dinghy for exploring was quick and hassle-free.
Challenges and triumphs
The biggest challenges we faced were the weather, tides and currents, and navigating the locks. You always want little or no wind when crossing large bodies of water. Whether it’s Lake Ontario or the Chesapeake Bay, keeping an eye on the forecast is essential—storms can develop quickly. Always be prepared and have a plan B just in case.
Tides and depth also demand constant attention. One night, we anchored in 10 feet of water and were surprised to wake up aground the next morning. It was a minor inconvenience, but a good reminder to stay aware. Currents, too, can be unpredictable—whether you’re in the Intracoastal Waterway or a river, they can shift suddenly and catch you off guard.
Locks presented their own set of challenges. The lockmaster expects you to stay in full control of your boat at all times. Twice in a single day, we entered a lock only to be pushed sideways by the wind before we could grab the wall lines. Each of these experiences required patience, attention, and growing skill. By the end of our journey, we felt confident handling them all.
The triumph was learning to work together, the determination to overcome any obstacle we encountered, meeting the many people along the way whether they were loopers or even someone we met at a laundry mat. And the satisfaction on knowing we did it.
Advice for future loopers
If you’re planning to do the Great Loop, our biggest advice is to take your time and enjoy the journey. It’s not a race. Every stop has its own charm — small towns, big cities, friendly marinas, and quiet anchorages. Give yourself room in the schedule to linger when you find a place you love.
Watch the weather, and be flexible. Calm days make for better crossings, and patience pays off. If the forecast doesn’t look good, stay put. A layover day is always better than a rough ride.
Learn your boat. Know how everything works, and carry spare parts. Something will break — it’s just part of the adventure — but knowing how to fix or work around it keeps the stress level down.
Respect the tides, currents, and locks. They’ll teach you patience and precision. Take your time, and don’t be afraid to ask the lockmasters or dockhands for help — they’ve seen it all and are usually happy to lend a hand.
Connect with people — both Loopers and locals. One of the most rewarding parts of the journey is meeting other boaters, but don’t overlook the people who aren’t on the Loop. Locals, marina staff, and fellow travelers you meet along the way can share tips, stories, and friendships that enrich the experience even more.
And finally, enjoy every mile. From the first lock to the last sunset, it’s an experience like no other — one that will stay with you long after you’ve crossed your wake.
