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 first virtual event of 2026, the breakout room topics are below.  

Packing 101
How many pairs of shoes do I need for the Loop? Are jackets really necessary? What appliances should be in my galley? Do I stock up on spare boat parts and engine room tools? What size towels? Pillows? And plates? This is just a small sample of questions we hear from planners as they get ready to set out on the Loop. We can almost guarantee that no two Loopers will have the same packing list, or even identical 'must-have' items on their boats. But it's still fun to discuss! Join us if you've Looped and you're willing to share the things you can't live without, or if you're a planner and you want some ideas of how to provision and prepare. 
 
Boat Buying in 2026
Let's talk about the boat market. Specifically, the Looper boat market. During this Virtual Docktails we'll take a deep dive with AGLCA sponsor brokers who specialize in Loop boats. This will be a helpful session to attend if you'll be purchasing a boat this year, as well as selling a boat this year. Or if you're just curious to hear about the current state of the market. Bring your questions and we'll enjoy a helpful discussion!
 
Getting Engaged with AGLCA 
This topic has never been done before for a Virtual Docktails, but we're REALLY excited about it. How can you maximize your AGLCA membership? From advocacy efforts to becoming a Harbor Host; participating in discussion panels/forums to navigating our app...the possibilities are endless for engagement. Kim Russo, Director of the AGLCA, will host this discussion room and looks forward to answering any questions and personally helping our members get involved. We'll even talk about ways to stay engaged after you cross your wake.
 
Bahamas Bound
With many of our Loopers heading to the Bahamas this winter, we felt it was only appropriate to include "Bahamas Bound" as a topic for our January Virtual Docktails! This breakout room can be for any Loopers who've traveled to the Bahamas and want to share tips and memories, or Loopers planning to head to the Bahamas. You can even join this room if you aren't Looping yet, but want to hear more about this popular side trip.
 
Route Choices
Calling all Loopers with opinions...that's right, this Virtual Docktails is for you! The high level route choices may look pretty simple, but when you dive in you'll realize there are a surprisingly large number of small decisions to make. Routing options from the Hudson River to the Great Lakes. Which side of Lake Michigan should you travel? Will you round Florida via Lake Okeechobee or the Keys? Dismal Swamp or Virginia Cut (AKA the prime rib) route? This breakout room can even dive into which tools you use to plan your travel. Planners, please join this session with a question, a drink and a pen/notebook in hand. We'll stress, there's no right way to do the Loop! However, you'll enjoy hearing everyone's opinion on the best way (or possibly even a what-not-to-do!) 
 

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 the 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, Janaury 21st at noon eastern.