Welcome to the GREAT LAKES CRUISING CLUB
Sharing Information to Enhance Cruising Since 1934
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
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.
Non-Members: Lifeline Newsletter
Want to learn more about what’s happening with the GLCC? Sign up for our monthly newsletter. It's Free!
Wednesday in the GLCCSchool – Navigating Locks
If you are a serious cruiser sooner or later, you'll encounter locks, but they don't need to be intimidating. Actually, passing through a lock is a challenge. To learn more about locks join veteran cruiser Bill Rohde as he discusses the necessary preparation, equipment and proper etiquette that go into making a successful lock passage. If you are thinking of stretching your cruising legs and a canal passage is part of your adventure don’t miss this great GLCCSchool webinar.
Thursday in the GLCCSchool – Anchorages of the North Channel
The North Channel is cruising paradise right here close to home. Join veteran North Channel cruiser, Dave Spencer, on Thursday, February 12th as he explores this Great Lakes gem. If you’ve never been to the North Channel this webinar is the place to start. If you’ve already been to the North Channel this webinar is the place to gather new insights and new destinations.
January 29 2026 Harbor Report Updates
Another New Year! Time to start planning for the upcoming boating season by reviewing the Harbor Reports, flagging the places that are on your must-see list, and dreaming about warm temperatures!
GMail putting GLCC emails in spam
Have you been expecting an email from the GLCC and can't find it? Do you use GMail as your email provider? The Club has had an issue with GMail putting its emails in the member's Spam folder. If this is happening to you, please see how to prevent this in the HELP section on this website or go to GMail Fix.
You could earn 2025 GLCC Founders Award
Have you had a fun / exceptional / learning cruising experience on the Great Lakes
that you would like to share with other GLCC members? The Founders Award is a great way to take other cruisers along with you during that memorable time on the water
Club wins at Toronto boat show, GLCC meetup
For many Great Lakes Cruising Club members, the Toronto International Boat Show is a welcome winter tradition. It’s a chance to escape the cold, see the latest in boating, and maybe pick up some new gear. But beyond the boats and gadgets, the show is also an important opportunity for the GLCC to connect with prospective members who are looking to expand their Great Lakes cruising experiences.