71-Year-Old Breaks Great Loop Speed Record in a 16-Foot Jon Boat

The Great Loop has long stood as one of the most ambitious boating adventures in North America, a continuous waterway route stretching roughly 6,000 miles through the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, Great Lakes, Canadian Heritage Canals, inland rivers, and the Gulf of Mexico.

And now, it has a brand new record holder.

Robert Youens, a 71-year-old adventurer from Texas, completed the full loop in just 19 days, 13 hours, and one minute, setting a new speed record—and capturing the hearts of boaters and dreamers across the country. Even more impressively, he did it all in his 16-foot Jon boat, affectionately named The Ageless Wanderer.

A Journey Fueled by Joy

Youens began his journey quietly, without the intention of breaking a record. On the morning of July 12, he launched from Pensacola’s Navy Point Boat Ramp in his 16-foot Jon boat, The Ageless Wanderer, and headed south toward Fort Myers.

As he shared in an emotional video posted to Facebook upon his return, “I left this pass, heading to Fort Myers, not knowing any of this stuff was going to happen.”

What began as a solo boating challenge quickly evolved into a record-breaking adventure, with thousands following his GPS tracker online. His determination, grit, and good humor carried him through tight river locks, rough Gulf waters, and long, 12- to 14-hour days at the tiller. His final day alone covered over 200 miles before he crossed his wake back in Pensacola on July 31 at 9:53 p.m., to cheers, music, and a warm welcome from fans and fellow boaters.

What Is the Great Loop?

Often referred to as the “boater’s thru-hike,” the Great Loop is a massive undertaking that typically takes boaters several months to complete. The route allows for flexibility — some loopers opt to start in the Great Lakes, travel down through inland rivers such as the Tennessee and Tombigbee Waterways, and return via the East Coast and Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.

Most Loopers take their time, stopping to explore towns, refuel, restock, and enjoy the natural beauty along the way. Completing it in less than 20 days is virtually unheard of, until now.

Why It Matters

This incredible feat has sparked excitement and admiration throughout the boating community. Loopers and aspiring Loopers have filled forums and Facebook groups with congratulations and awe. For many, this is a reminder that age is just a number, and that adventure is always within reach.

At Ahoy!, we love stories like this one. They highlight the enduring spirit of boaters, the strength of community, and the passion that powers every voyage, whether it's across a lake or around the continent.