Soo Rally is an international success

By Rear Commodore/Rally Chair Rob Hillman

What a blast! The Great Lakes Cruising Club’s Soo Rally 2026 delivered three days of boating camaraderie, stunning scenery, and nonstop good times in Sault Ste. Marie (S-230).

Boaters gathered at George Kemp Marina, soaking up the Soo Locks Engineers Day with freighter watching and the famous International Bridge Walk. The Tower of History reception sparkled with cold drinks, Yooper-themed hors d’oeuvres, and sweeping views of the world’s busiest inland shipping channel. Old cruising friends reconnected; new friends were made.

Saturday’s highlight had to be the sizzling dinner at Black Rock Bar & Grill, where cruisers cooked their own steaks on 755-degree volcanic rocks amid plenty of stories and good cheer. 

Some cruisers headed out early Sunday for the annual GLCC Rendezvous in Superior/Duluth. Three boats transited the Canadian lock and anchored the night in a quiet bay in the upper St. Marys River and enjoyed happy hour ashore courtesy of ___ friends of Rob and Kelly Hillman..

From the Valley Camp museum tour and Edmund Fitzgerald memorial to food trucks, family fun, and perfect weather, the rally was a memorable event. Big thanks go to everyone who made the trip; your energy and spirit “locked in” another great GLCC gathering.

Here’s to more adventures on our Great Lakes!