One Year on the Great Loop with the Navigating Nietzels

·42 min·4 clips

Evan explains how working full-time on the loop limited their ability to explore towns during weekdays.

The episode begins with host Kim Russo introducing Evan and Carly Neitzel, popular YouTubers documenting their Great Loop adventure. They mark one year on the loop and share insights based on their video about lessons learned. First, they discuss working full-time while cruising, noting it's doable with technology like Starlink but limits spontaneous exploration. Next, they talk about packing, advising to bring fewer clothes and focus on essentials like winter gear. They debate boat features, with Evan preferring a faster boat for better weather windows, though it increases fuel costs. Carly emphasizes the importance of reaching out to fellow loopers to organize social gatherings like docktails. After a sponsor break, they shift to things they wouldn't change. Evan praises their lower helm for protection in locks and bad weather, while Kim shares a differing preference. They discuss single versus twin engines, with Evan highlighting the simplicity and protection of a single engine. Carly describes their dinghy setup as essential for anchoring and exploring hidden areas. Evan details their solar and lithium battery system, which allows off-grid living and has paid for itself through marina savings. They recommend spending time in Canada for its scenic beauty and friendly locals. Finally, they advocate for using headsets for calm communication during docking and locks. The episode concludes with Kim commending their engagement with the looper community and teasing a future update after they cross their wake.

As heard by us

A practical year-in-review on the boat choices the Neitzels would keep.

A little over a year into their Great Loop adventure, Evan and Carly Neitzel can now sort some boat choices into changes and keepers. The most useful stretch makes a strong case for the lower helm: at locks, the starboard-side setup helped with grabbing a line and watching…

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Why you'd press play

You get a little-over-a-year-in perspective on the Loop, with the lower-helm case made through locks, rain, wind, and rolling water.

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