Midnight Rambler on the Loop

The adventures of MR5 as she cruises America's Great Loop

Back to the USA: DeTour, MI

August 17, 2026 through August 18, 2026

It’s hard to believe that our Canadian adventure has come to an end!

We checked into Kingston, Ontario, on June 26, and 53 days later emerged having conquered all 44 locks of the Trent-Severn Waterway and somehow survived the famously treacherous waters of the Thirty Thousand Islands of Georgian Bay and the North Channel.

What an incredible journey it has been. Canada treated us to sights we never imagined, sounds we’ll never forget, and a breathtaking beauty that seemed to appear around every bend. From quiet anchorages and spectacular sunsets to narrow channels, rocky shores, and the occasional “Are we really supposed to go through there?” moment, every day brought something new.

Perhaps the greatest treasure of the journey, though, has been the people we met along the way. We made wonderful new friendships, shared countless stories, laughs, meals, and adventures with fellow Loopers, and became part of a special community brought together by this wonderfully crazy boating lifestyle.

After 53 days, countless miles, 44 locks, and more memories than we can possibly count, we headed back to the US with full hearts, more photos than we can possibly organize, and a whole new appreciation for just how beautiful—and occasionally unpredictable—this adventure can be.

Canada, you’ve been spectacular. We came for the adventure, but we’re leaving with friendships, stories, and memories that will last a lifetime. ❤️🇨🇦

Crossing the unseen line back into the US. The water is beautiful.

Our first stop in the US was DeTour Village, MI. The year-round population is approximately 260.

The town is only 8.38 square miles but it has not one,…

…not two,…

….but three churches! All within two blocks from one another.

And, there’s a cannabis shop!

And there were enough loopers to have a Docktales at which we were finally introduced to “mini beers.” (A sweet dessert shooter made with Licor 43 topped with heavy cream that looks like a tiny mug of beer.)