As you chart your course for 2025, consider the unique satisfaction that comes from crossing your own wake—a true badge of honor for any boater. Embarking on one of America's mini loops offers not just a journey through stunning waterways, but the chance to complete a circuitous route that brings you back to your starting point, marking a full and accomplished voyage. Whether you're navigating through the historic waters of the Chesapeake Bay or the tropical blues of the Bahamas, each loop presents its own set of challenges and rewards, perfect for adding to your boating achievements this year.
The Triangle Loop
The Triangle Loop is a less demanding route compared to The Great Loop, but no less exciting and adventurous for cruisers. On this loop, you'll cruise in U.S. and Canadian waters, so have your passport and appropriate boat papers ready.
Over the course of 4 to 6 months, you'll embark on a clockwise journey from the Hudson River to Lake Ontario, traveling north through Montreal and Sorel before circling back to Troy, NY. Along the way, you'll navigate through 99 locks, 7 rivers, and 4 lakes, taking in some of the most picturesque scenery in this northern boating region.
The Triangle Loop is not just a great adventure in its own right, it's also an ideal practice round for those who dream of tackling The Great Loop in the future. Even if you're already planning to take on The Great Loop this year, the Triangle Loop is a fantastic side trip that will give you an even greater appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the waterways of North America. Learn more about the Triangle Loop, here.
For detailed navigation tips and local insights, consider complementing your trip with the Waterway Guide Great Lakes Vol. 1 Edition.
The Down East Loop
The Down East Loop, also known as the Down East Circle Route, is a 2,400-mile odyssey that offers a blend of inland passages and open sea stretches, perfect for experienced boaters looking to challenge their navigation skills and enjoy diverse scenery. Starting in New York City, the route heads north on the Hudson River, offering a choice between continuing through the Champlain waterway north to Sorel-Tracy or traversing the Erie Canal, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River. From Sorel-Tracy, the journey extends to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, skirts around Nova Scotia, crosses the Bay of Fundy, and descends down the New England coast, completing the loop back in New York. Learn more about the Down East Loop, here.
For detailed navigation tips and local insights, consider complementing your trip with the Waterway Guide Great Lakes Vol. 1 Edition.
The Chesapeake Bay Loop
The Chesapeake Bay Loop is a boating adventure offering a 400-mile journey around the Chesapeake Bay from Norfolk, Virginia, to Rock Hall, Maryland, and back without crossing your own wake. This incredible route allows you to explore one of the largest tributaries in the United States, surrounded by Maryland, Virginia, and the Eastern Shore, and experience all the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.
While the Chesapeake Bay can get rough at times and put you at odds with weather systems, the good news is that you can dodge, skip, hunker down, and gunkhole your way to adventure and comfort if you pay attention to the weather and tides and plan accordingly.
The Chesapeake Bay Loop offers the perfect opportunity to put your boating skills to the test while exploring some of the best boating regions in the United States. With a 3 to 4-week itinerary, you can enjoy the journey and soak in all the natural beauty, history, and culture of the region, from quaint waterfront towns to bustling cities, historic landmarks to scenic vistas. Learn more about the Chesapeake Bay Loop, here.
Purchase the Waterway Guide Chesapeake Bay Edition or a Print + Digital Subscription to help you navigate The Chesapeake Bay Loop.
For detailed navigation tips and local insights, consider complementing your trip with the Waterway Guide Chesapeake Bay Edition.
The Carolina Loop
The Carolina Loop is a charming and scenic mini loop that links marinas and waterfront towns from Manteo to the Albemarle Sound. Originally established through joint tourism marketing efforts, this 200-mile journey covering 450 square miles of water is a perfect small summer adventure that offers a glimpse into the rich culture and natural beauty of the region.
Along the way, you'll experience a diverse range of experiences, from small towns throwing big festivals to breathtaking views of the Dismal Swamp. Learn more about The Albemarle Loop's member marinas and upcoming events at www.albemarleloop.com. Learn more about the Carolina Loop, here.
For detailed navigation tips and local insights, consider complementing your trip with the Waterway Guide Mid-Atlantic Edition.
The Florida Mini Loop (Smuggler's Run)
The Florida Mini Loop, often called Smuggler's Run, presents a unique cruising experience around Southern Florida, incorporating the historic and picturesque Okeechobee Waterway. Starting in Stuart, the journey crosses Lake Okeechobee, linking the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts through the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee Rivers. This 117-mile route offers a deep dive into Florida's diverse landscapes and maritime cultures, from tranquil inland waters to bustling coastal cities.
For detailed navigation tips and local insights, consider complementing your trip with the Waterway Guide Southern Edition.
The Bahamas Loop
The Bahamas Loop is an adventurous route that takes boaters on a journey through beautiful islands in the Bahamas. This unique route allows boaters to experience all major cruising spots without ever having to backtrack, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore as much as possible. You'll enjoy crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. The timeline for this cruising adventure can range from 4 to 6 months, depending on your preferred pace. Learn more about the Bahamas Loop, here.
For detailed navigation tips and local insights, consider complementing your trip with the Waterway Guide Bahamas Edition and explore even more with Waterway Guide Bahamas Land & Sea available in our Mobile App.
Each of these loops offers a unique way to experience the waterways, whether you're seeking serene nature, rich history, or maritime challenges. Let us know where you will be boating in our current poll. For more tips on planning your 2025 boating adventures with Waterway Guide, see this article.