Welcome to Captain Mike’s Great Loop Adventure
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Ahoy there, fellow adventurers! I’m Captain Mike, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to my journey—where the water is our road, and the adventure never ends. Whether you’re a seasoned boater, a dreamer yearning for the open sea, or someone who just loves a good story, you’ve come to the right place.
A Passion for Boating and the Outdoors
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the water. Boating, exploring, diving beneath the surface, and fishing on top of it—this is where I find my peace and my thrill. But my passion doesn’t stop there. I love boat projects, turning old vessels into seaworthy beauties, and sharing every step of the journey with you.
The Great Loop – A Dream Set to Sail in 2025
This year, I plan to complete the Great Loop—a 6,000-nautical-mile journey that circles the eastern U.S., stretching through the Great Lakes, down the Mississippi, and around Florida. If you don’t know what the Great Loop is, stick around—I’ll be breaking it down and bringing you along for every twist and turn.
Why Follow My Journey?
On my channel and website, you’ll find:
- Exciting Great Loop adventures—the good, the bad, and the unforgettable.
- Boat restoration tips—from frugal fixes to full-scale transformations.
- Stories from 35 years on the water—including near-death experiences and the best moments of my life.
- Smart boating on a budget—so you can hit the water without sinking your finances (or your marriage).
But this journey isn’t just about me—it’s about us. Whether you’re an experienced captain or dreaming of your first boat, this is a place to learn, share, and connect.
A Little About My Background
Some folks call me crazy for the things I do. Maybe I am—but everything I do is a calculated risk. My background might help explain that.
In 1990, I joined the fire department as a volunteer in Auburndale, FL. The adrenaline rush of fighting fires quickly became a passion, and I pursued it professionally—completing the fire academy, becoming an EMT, and eventually moving up the ranks to Lieutenant.
Later, an opportunity arose for me to attend the police academy and join the SWAT team as a medic. For the next 15 years, I served as a dual-certified firefighter, police officer, and fire investigator—helping to create our city’s first arson investigation division.
Through all those years, I took risks—but always calculated ones. I never caused harm to those under my command, and I’m proud to say that no firefighter I led ever lost their life. That mindset has carried over into everything I do, including boating.
Where My Love of Boating Began
In 2001, I bought my first real saltwater boat—a 23’ Sunrunner from Niantic, CT. I flew up, purchased it sight unseen, and drove it down the East Coast to Florida with a couple of firefighter buddies. That 2-week journey was my first taste of what would later become my ultimate goal—the Great Loop.
Over the years, while raising three amazing kids and running a business, I owned several boats—including a Carver 32’—spending most weekends on the water. Even when life threw challenges my way, including losing my business in 2008, my passion for boating never faded.
Overcoming Life’s Biggest Challenge
In 2022, I faced something far more difficult than any fire or storm—I developed a severe case of pancreatitis. I lost 100 pounds and spent six months in bed, battling intense pain and coming dangerously close to death. When I was hospitalized, many thought it would be the last time they saw me.
But here’s the truth—I experienced a miracle healing. My faith in God and the power of prayer pulled me through, and I have the proof to back it up. If you’re interested in that story, let me know, and I’ll gladly share more.
Once I recovered, the dream of completing the Great Loop came rushing back. I knew I needed a smaller, trailerable boat to pick up where I left off in Chesapeake, VA. I found my perfect project—a $600 Bayliner 2450—and rebuilt it from the ground up.
The Next Chapter – The Great Loop in 2025
With a new engine, solar panels, and a fully remodeled setup, my boat is ready to set sail on May 1, 2025 (weather permitting). My goal? To finally complete the Great Loop and share every mile, every challenge, and every triumph with you.
So, if you’re looking for inspiration, education, or just some good old-fashioned adventure, you’ve found the right place.
Come Aboard!
Join me on this incredible journey—hit that subscribe button, follow along, and let’s navigate the Great Loop together. Less than 5% of people even know what the Great Loop is—by the time we’re done, you’ll not only know it, but you’ll feel like you’ve done it yourself.
Let’s set sail—see you on the water!
🚤⚓
The Great Loop
Just some of the beautiful scenes of the Great Loop.
