Welcome to AGLCA's Virtual Docktails where Loopers can connect on special interest topics! Each Zoom social breakout room will be hosted by a Gold Looper or a representative from AGLCA. The groups are intended to be interactive and fun with no structured agenda or presentations!  For the August event, the breakout room topics are below.  Virtual Docktails will be held at 7 pm eastern/6 pm central.

New! Interact with other Virtual Docktails attendees before and after the event on the members-only discussion forum. You can even post your questions ahead of time so the breakout room host can be sure to answer them during the session. Then bring your follow-up questions after the August 19th event. The forum threads are linked below for each breakout room.

Maintaining Your Boat While Looping

One thing all Loopers have in common is the need to maintain their boat before, during and after the Loop. Join this discussion to talk about routine maintenance, troubleshooting common issues, and strategies for keeping your boat in top shape while cruising. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or prefer to hire the pros, we'll share practical tips on planning maintenance stops, finding reliable service along the Loop, deciding what spare parts and tools to carry, and tackling those inevitable "boat projects" that pop up along the way. Bring your questions, your favorite maintenance hacks, and the lessons you've learned from experience! To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on Maintaining Your Boat While Looping.

Wisconsin VS Michigan
When heading south toward Chicago, many Loopers have to make a tough choice: cruise the Wisconsin shoreline or explore the Michigan coast? Both offer unforgettable experiences, but if you only have time for one...which should it be? Join this lively discussion as we compare the highlights, hidden gems, and trade-offs of each route. From charming harbor towns and favorite marinas to weather, provisioning, distances, and must-see stops, we'll hear from Loopers who've done one side or both! Come ready to share your experiences, defend your favorite shoreline, and maybe even help someone else decide which side of Lake Michigan is right for their adventure. To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on Wisconsin VS Michigan.
 

AI: Your Newest Crew Member?
AI seems to be everywhere these days, but can it actually make your Great Loop easier, or is it just another passing trend? Join us for this friendly discussion as we explore practical, real-world ways AI can help before and during your adventure. From researching boats and information for planning routes to organizing maintenance, managing marina reservations, tracking expenses, and even documenting your journey, we'll share simple ways AI can become a valuable member of your crew. No technical background is required, and no expensive apps or subscriptions are necessary. Whether you're AI-curious or already experimenting with it, come discover how this powerful tool can help you spend less time planning and more time enjoying the Loop. To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on AI:  Your Newest Crew Member?

Solo Loopers
Thinking about tackling the Great Loop on your own? Or are you already proving that one person really can do it all? Whether you're a full-time solo cruiser or occasionally find yourself handling the boat alone, this discussion is for you. Join fellow Loopers to share tips, tricks, and encouragement for cruising solo. We'll talk about docking, lock strategies, safety, planning, meeting other Loopers along the way, and the gear and techniques that make single-handing easier. If you've ever wondered, "Can I really do the Loop by myself?" come hear from those who are living the adventure one mile at a time. To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on Solo Loopers.


To Plan or Not To Plan
How much planning is too much? Should you reserve marinas weeks in advance or wake up and decide where you're headed over your morning coffee? One of the unofficial mottos of the Great Loop is, "Don't keep a schedule," but every Looper eventually faces the question: When should I make a plan... and when should I just go with the flow? Join us for what is sure to be a lively discussion as we debate the pros and cons of planning versus spontaneity. We can talk about reservations, weather windows, seasonal timing, meeting up with friends, popular destinations, and those times when having a plan really does pay off. Whether you're a meticulous planner or someone who prefers to let each day unfold on its own, come share your perspective and what's working for you! To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on To Plan or Not to Plan.

During the registration process, you will inidicate which breakout room you plan to attend but you will also be able to move to another breakout room during the event if you choose to do so.  

Upon registering, you will receive information about your Zoom link for the virtual docktails but you will also be able to find it in "My Events", which can be found under "My Account" on the homepage menu bar of the AGLCA website when you are logged in.  Just click "View Booking" by the appropriate event to see the Zoom link.
 

Registration closes on Wednesday, August 19th at noon eastern.

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