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Resources and Relationships for Great Lakes Cruisers

Whether you’re an old salt or a novice, power boater or sailor, captain or crew, there’s always more to know about cruising the Great Lakes. Sharing information is what we’re all about. We are cruisers helping cruisers--to find remote anchorages; navigate locks and waterways; hone skills via online webinars; or connect with other cruisers and build friendships.

Many join GLCC to obtain access to our constantly updated online Harbor Reports--considered the most authoritative, accurate and up-to-date cruising documents on the Great Lakes. These reports provide detailed observations by members who have personally visited the area, anchorage, harbor or waterway. Is that restaurant still there?  What about propane, hospitals or groceries? What’s the best approach? Current depth? How can I avoid rocks and shoals in an uncharted anchorage? A GLCC report is sometimes the only information source available for a particular remote location. Plus each report contains first hand and useful details, as shown in these three sample reports for anchorages in Lake Superior, The North Channel and Georgian Bay

Unlike other guides, our reports are constantly updated – over 1000 since our start in 1934 — and regularly maintained by our members in a "wiki" format on the Web. They are viewable, printable and can be downloaded to your phone and computer for off line viewing while cruising. 

And our renowned harbor reports are just the beginning… 

•    Many harbors have GLCC Port Captains, who provide local knowledge and assistance-- especially helpful for cruisers outside their home waters.

•    A growing number of yacht clubs -- Great Lakes and beyond -- extend reciprocity to GLCC members.

•    Member discounts for marine services, products, marinas and gas docks are available.

•    Our online school www.glccschool.com offers live and recorded classes in all aspects of cruising. 

•    Collective member experiences provide priceless material for discussions, stories and boating tips. 

•    Besides our popular annual rendezvous, we arrange rallies, flotillas, and fun social events. 

But the best GLCC experiences just seem to “happen,” when members find each other in the same harbor, refuge, anchorage, wilderness or dock.  Having fun with fellow cruisers may be the best of all GLCC membership benefits.

 

Over 1000 Harbor Reports

Harbor Report screenshot

One of the great member benefits of joining the Great Lakes Cruising Club is access to our detailed Cruising Guides for over 1000 harbors of the five Great Lakes as well as Lake St. Clair. Our Harbor Reports are continually updated by fellow GLCC members, and the latest versions are immediately available on this website.

Tuesday in the GLCCSchool – Understanding and Avoiding Thunderstorms

Join Mark Thornton on Tuesday March 19th & 26th as he takes an in depth look at these strong and dangerous storms. Thunderstorms cancome quickly and can bring with them strong winds, large waves, dangerous lightning and even waterspouts. Understanding what causes and makes up a thunderstorm can help you avoid danger.

Mark Thornton is one of the GLCCSchool’s most popular instructors and if you have enjoyed any of his previous webinars this presentation is right up your alley. The old adage “forewarned is forearmed” certainly applies to this webinar.

Missed Part I, but still want to register? No problem, we will provide all late registrants with a link to the recording of the first session so you’ll be ready to jump right into Part ll.

Don't forget all the GLCCSchool webinars are free for all GLCC members.

Wednesday in the GLCCSchool – Marine Communications: Outfitting Your Boat for the Great Lakes

The equipment you need to communicate on the water varies depending on where and how you will use your boat, and the technologies for marine communication are changing all the time. Do you possess the appropriate communication equipment? Is your current equipment outdated and potentially unsafe? Does your equipment match your cruising plans? Join Christian Sandvig, this Wednesday as he presents this brand new GLCCSchool webinar, Marine Communications: Outfitting Your Boat for the Great Lakes. If you are a serious cruiser don’t miss this thorough look at modern marine communications equipment.

Don't forget all the GLCCSchool webinars are free for all GLCC members.

Thursday in the GLCCSchool – Diesel 2: “I’ve Got the Diesel Fuel Blues,” Marine Diesel Fuel Systems

Thursday, March 21st brings the second webinar in the Marine Diesel webinar package, “I’ve Got the Diesel Fuel Blues,” Marine Diesel Fuel Systems, to the GLCCSchool. This four-part series is a must for all cruisers who are looking for a no diesel drama cruising season.

In the second session of the GLCCSchool marine diesel series, master mechanic Jim Zima will review the diesel engine fuel system, its various components and what you as the captain can do to keep the system in good shape and how to trouble shoot problems.

Don't forget all the GLCCSchool webinars are free for all GLCC members.

2024 GLCC Membership Cards

This year the GLCC is introducing a new feature where members can display their membership card on their mobile device or print them from their PC. Please note that each person in a membership will have their own card. There will not be a way to have a card with both names on it.

February 22 2024 Harbor Report Updates

Sections of the St. Lawrence Harbor Reports have received significant updates based on the travels of GLCC members and friends who made the journey down the Seaway over the last couple of years. These updates will be helpful for those heading out as well as those who are heading into the Great Lakes via the Seaway.

Port Captain Introductions: Denny & Ellie Schurdell

Port Clinton, Ohio (E-20): Denny Schurdell has been a life-long teacher. He is retired as a visual arts teacher, K-12 and college. He coached for many years in wrestling, cross country and soccer. Denny has degrees from Kent State University, La Verne College, and Cleveland State University. He belongs to the Sandusky Yacht Club, and is a former member of Bay Point Yacht Club and Harbor Bay Yacht Club. He is a founder of the former Catalina sailboat association-LECOA (Lake Erie Catalina Owners Association).