So many Questions... Looking for a looper

I've done the loop in entirety and 1/2 of it another 3 times. As for which engine is better, it depends on the actual model of the engine. Cat's have the largest dealer network and people to fix them throughout the loop considering their heavy equipment market. Detroits would be behind them and then Lehmans.

A single engine with a bow thruster is not a bad way to go, and many trawlers in the size range have a single. Another option that I did a few long trips on would be a 43/44' Lagoon. With the larger motors, you can cruise at 16-16.5 knots. They burn 1.5 GPNM at 16 knots, at 12 knots 2 NM per gallon, at 10 knots 3 NM per gallon, and slower even better. Better than most trawlers that size with a lot more room inside and out. Very stable, plenty or range. A slip might be an issue here or there, but many slips on the loop are side tie and it doesn't matter as much.

When using a boat for the loop, you're putting a lot of hours on everything and you will be spending time in the engine room. An enclosed helm and a lower helm are both very nice to have. Remember the bridge just outside of Chicago has a low clearance of 19'2 although many times it will have 20-21' of clearance but you can't bet on it.

AGLCA is at www.greatloop.org

-Chris

- Lehman vs Detriot vs Cat? - variations on a theme? Less HP (to a point anyway) is better, but how many hours is acceptable before a refit/rebuild?


CAT and Lehman then Detroit.

You can get a CAT worked on anywhere.

Lehmans are old school, simple, easy to work on, give you a lot of room in most engine spaces and very reliable.

Detroit's can be good engines but just not my first choice.

- How big of a generator do I need? - Generally will be at marinas but not always. is "right sized" better or is overkill better?

Right size is better than over kill.

- The Defever had a fantastic stand up engine room. How much time do you spend in the engine room other than oil changes, and filter changes (assuming things are running well)?

Having as much room in an engine space to get to things can be very important. And it encourages you to get in there and do the proper daily checks and spend a little extra time looking things over. As does proper lighting down there.

- What other similar vessels should I consider?

Flemings, Grand Banks, etc.

- Which should I avoid?

Old tied out ones that are money pits and time eaters.


- Should I look for one that needs some 'work' and spend the time to really get to know her, or spend more $$ up front and hope that the B.O.A.T. Acronym doesn't come to bite me in the stern

Spend up front. Look at one that people have just finished doing the loop in perhaps. There is a loopers gathering coming up. You might want to go and look at boats and talk to the loopers.

All good answers. Single engine will be a lot more economical, but my vote would be for twins. The maneuverability will be your reward in a few tight spots, as well as some of the locks with swift currents. Although trusters are a big help, I hate to have to depend on them. The open Gulf run over to Florida is a 24 hour cruise in an 8 kt. boat. That leaves many waiting weeks for a weather window. 16+kts. (twin screw) could actually save you considerable money by cutting dock time. I'd consider a lower helm station almost a must have. A flybridge is nice on a beautiful day, but most days will be too hot, too cold, too wet, too buggy, etc. Lock that 19'2" number that Capt. J mentioned in your mind as you look for a boat. If you can get below 17' you can also do the Champlain Canal in NY. Also keep in mind that you'll want to change your anode over to Magnesium or Aluminum once you get to the top of the Hudson. I like the cats, but it does limit the availablity of dockage a bit if you go over an 18' beam.

love your info/intel.... First timer here also but well read lol. but one question I have (will dole them out slowly is What's the difference between a M and NM isn't a mile a mile? OH while I'm here how many Knots equal a MPH thanks all

It's a good thing we know you're just joking, yanking our chain.

1.15 mph

M=miles (statute)
NM- Nautical Miles =1.15 statute miles

Some suggested "learning time" for your pleasure.

Michael Does The Loop

The Great Loop is a 6,000-mile circumnavigation of the
easternmost third of the United States.

This is the story of my trip.

1. 1 Dec
   
   Transport Day #33: An Historic Day As Valhalla Completes The Great Loop

http://michaeldoestheloop.tumblr.com/

That is yours truly FYI who has the mention in those articles. I was procured to deliver the boat from Michigan after Capt. Ed retired from duty.

What happened to Ed?

Ed dealt with (fill in the blank) one time too many and decided to leave that boat, and boating. No more (fill in the blank), (fill in the blank) or (fill in the blank). Loving retirement.

Hey there! Welcome back after leaving again or again oh no, is this Ground Hog Day?