What It Really Costs — and Where People Get Surprised
“How much does the Great Loop cost?” is the most searched Looper question — and the most misunderstood.
There is no single number, but there is a pattern.
Loopers who struggle financially tend to underestimate dockage, maintenance, and logistics, not fuel.
Dockage vs. Anchoring
Marinas often cost:
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$1.50–$2.50 per foot in small towns
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$4.00+ per foot in major cities
Over months, dockage frequently exceeds fuel costs.
Anchoring:
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Is free
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Requires proper gear and confidence
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Reduces expenses dramatically
We’ve covered anchoring strategies, comfort, and safety extensively in multiple videos — especially how comfort directly affects safety decisions.
Fuel: Predictable if You Plan
Fuel costs depend on:
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Speed choices
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Hull efficiency
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Regional pricing
Slowing down often saves thousands of dollars annually and reduces mechanical wear.
Maintenance Is Not Optional
A Loop boat typically accumulates 1,000 engine hours in a year.
Plan for:
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At least two professional oil changes
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Spare filters and impellers
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Minor repairs that always show up at the worst time
Unexpected repairs are part of the journey — planning for them keeps them from becoming emergencies.
Towing Insurance Is Mandatory
One river tow can exceed $2,000.
An annual BoatUS or SeaTow unlimited plan is one of the cheapest and smartest decisions a Looper can make.
Lifestyle Costs Add Up Quietly
Groceries, dining, laundry, tours, and side trips don’t feel expensive day-to-day — but over months, they matter.
The Loop rewards:
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Slower travel
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Longer stays
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Intentional spending
Bottom Line
The Loop doesn’t have to be expensive — but it punishes poor planning.
Those who budget conservatively travel longer, stress less, and enjoy the journey far more.
Meet Captain Mike
I’m Captain Mike — a lifelong boater and the voice behind the Good Time Adventures YouTube channel.
I created the channel to share what really happens out on the water — not just the highlights, but the decisions, mistakes, fixes, and lessons that don’t show up in glossy brochures. From Great Loop planning to comfort, safety, boat systems, and mindset, my goal is simple: help boaters be better prepared and less stressed when they cast off.
If you want to see these topics in action — along with real trips, real fixes, and real decisions — you can follow along on my YouTube channel here:
👉 [https://www.youtube.com/@CaptainMike1965]
