New Canadian Cruising Organization Launches to Showcase 3,000 km Great Canadian Loop
April 23, 2026
Gary J. Brickell, founder and commodore, announces the launch of The Great Canadian Loop Association (GCLA), a grassroots boating group created to inspire owners of vessels from 20′ cuddy cabins to 50′ yachts to untie from their marinas and explore an epic 3,000 km freshwater cruising route around the Great Lakes and adjacent waterways.
Born from conversations at the Toronto International Boat Show, the GCLA grew from a simple idea: offer Canadian boaters a long, adventurous loop that can be completed entirely in Canadian waters. After sketching a magenta-line route covering roughly 3,000 km, from Montreal to Sault St Marie — a trip an average trawler could complete in about 90 days, or a faster cruiser in roughly 50.
Brickell posted the map to local boating groups asking, “Is anyone interested?” Within 24 hours, more than 1,000 enthusiastic boaters responded with “Yes, let’s make it happen”.
Boaters told me they’d put dreams of the American Loop on hold. We realized we didn’t need to cross borders to find an unforgettable voyage — it’s all here in our own backyard. The Great Canadian Loop is about “staycationing” with the added benefit of never being far from home, no saltwater or tides.
The non-profit association emphasizes accessible cruising for average boating families as well as seasoned yacht owners, encouraging members to tackle portions of the Loop this summer and expand their journey in subsequent seasons. Early traction has been strong: GCLA launched at the end of January and, within two months, gained over seven hundred Facebook followers and a rapidly growing number of paid members. Members can be identified by their distinctive Burgee. Currently a vendor’s directory of discounted services for members is being complied. Additionally, member Rendezvous events are being planned for this summer.
We want to help people cross their wake, whether that means a three‑week adventure or a three‑month odyssey. Canada’s freshwater coastline is some of the finest cruising ground in the world — it’s time we rediscover it.
For more information, join visit GreatCanadianLoopAssociation on Facebook.
Contact: Gary J. Brickell, Commodore
The Great Canadian Loop Association
GreatCanadianLoop.ca
https://www.facebook.com/groups/938138308548657
