Crossing the Wake
One Woman's Great Loop Adventure
A bold, honest memoir about a woman who decided not to wait for retirement to live her dream of cruising America's Great Loop solo.
Tanya Binford’s Crossing the Wake is the story of one woman who set out to cruise America’s Great Loop on her own terms. Bold, honest, and deeply relatable, it’s a memoir about chasing a dream before the “right time” ever arrives.
A perfect read for anyone in the dreaming or planning stage — or for those who want a shot of courage for the journey ahead.
Thoughts from a Looper:
Crossing the Wake is one of those books that captures the full arc of a Looper’s journey: from dreaming and planning to tackling the miles, handling the small crises, and reflecting on how the trip changes you. Tanya Binford’s honesty and humor make it easy to relate, whether you’re single-handedly running your boat or just imagining what it would be like.
Early on, it’s inspiring to see her take action before retirement and embrace the planning, preparation, and mental work required. Along the way, small details — like stopping at a local bakery, dealing with a missing bolt on the impeller plate, or experiencing unique locks like the Big Chute Railway — really make the Loop feel alive and tangible.
Later chapters highlight the growth every Looper experiences: building confidence, solving problems, navigating long stretches like the Mississippi, and leaning on the community knowledge that makes the journey possible. The book also touches on something every cruiser eventually notices: how the Loop can change your perspective on life, relationships, and what “home” really means.
Whether you’re dreaming, planning, or already underway, this memoir is a reminder that the Loop isn’t just a route; it’s a journey that shapes you along the way.
Why We Read It in the Great Loop Book Club
Solo Looping is its own category of adventure, and Tanya’s story offers a rare, honest look at what it’s actually like, especially as a woman doing it at a time when it was uncommon. Her book came up in conversation at a Looperpalooza event in Punta Gorda when AGLCA director Kim Russo mentioned it, and that was enough of an endorsement to add it to our list.
What the Book Club Loved
Tanya doesn’t gloss over her inexperience; she leans into it, which makes the whole journey feel real and accessible rather than intimidating. Her backstory before the Loop is woven in naturally, so you understand exactly why this trip mattered so much to her personally. And Tanya’s openness about navigating the Looper community as a solo woman adds a layer to the story that most Loop books don’t touch.
The writing style is warm and specific. She gives you enough detail to feel like you’re on the boat with her without losing the forward momentum of the narrative.
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