Retirement on the Water: Janet & Bob’s Great Loop Adventure from Clarks Landing
Published on Oct 23, 2025
When Janet and Bob Menzie contemplated retirement, they imagined spending more time by the water. The question was...where? On a river, lake, maybe the bay? Instead of choosing a single location, Bob discovered America’s Great Loop, a 6,000-mile circumnavigation of the eastern United States’ waterways. The solution was clear: why buy a second home when you could live and travel on your own boat, experiencing countless destinations along the way?
Though new to boating, the Menzies found the perfect vessel at Clarks Landing Yacht Sales following the TrawlerFest show in Baltimore: a Beneteau Swift Trawler. Once purchased, they docked their new boat at Clarks Landing Marina in Point Pleasant, NJ, preparing for the adventure ahead. While docked, they learned to operate their boat, cook on board, and live on the water full-time. They also took boating lessons to ensure they were fully prepared for the journey that lay ahead.
Exploring America’s Waterways
On July 1, 2024, Janet and Bob departed from their slip in Point Pleasant, embarking on a journey that would take them through bustling cities, serene rivers, and breathtaking natural landscapes. They cruised past New York City’s dramatic skyline, explored the scenic Hudson River, and marveled at the rugged Georgian Bay. Along the way, they navigated the Erie and Oswego Canals and tackled 44 locks on the Trent Severn Waterway, all within the first 60 days.
The voyage was not without its challenges. While the Florida Keys offered two months of relaxation, much of the inland river cruising tested their skills and perseverance. Yet it was here, among the meandering waterways and unexpected obstacles, that the Menzies discovered some of the most rewarding accomplishments and built meaningful relationships with fellow Loopers.
From bald eagles soaring over the Illinois River to misty autumn mornings in Tennessee, every mile of the Great Loop brought unforgettable experiences. Equally memorable were the towns they explored on foot, touring museums, sampling local breweries, distilleries, and wineries, attending concerts, and connecting with the people and culture of each region.
Life Aboard A Beneteau Swift Trawler
Janet and Bob quickly realized that their 35-foot Swift Trawler was more than just a boat; it was the perfect companion for their ambitious journey.
“While we met many who had more living space inside their boats, we had several advantages,” they said.
Their trawler offered a cruising speed of 12–14 knots, a top speed of 20, and superior fuel efficiency with a single diesel engine—significantly faster and more economical than many two-engine Loopers. Its smaller size allowed access to tighter spaces, lock walls, and even saved on slip fees along the way.
The Adventure of a Lifetime
“Living on a trawler while navigating the Loop is not a vacation—it’s a working adventure,” Janet explains.
Each day presented challenges, from navigating unfamiliar waterways to managing life aboard a compact vessel. Yet with teamwork, communication, and Captain Bob’s growing confidence, they embraced every new obstacle. Completing America’s Great Loop proved to be the perfect way to transition from professional life to retirement, combining adventure, learning, and personal growth.
Janet and Bob’s journey stands as a testament to the freedom, flexibility, and excitement that a life on the water can bring. And it all began with the right boat—a Beneteau Swift Trawler!
