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 July 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 July 22nd event. The forum threads are linked below for each breakout room.
Boat Buying 101
Are you ready to start shopping for your Great Loop boat? Join fellow future Loopers for a fun discussion about all things boat buying! Some topics this group can cover include common makes and models of Loop-capable boats, the features that make certain boats well-suited for the journey, and how to narrow down your options based on your cruising style and budget. Whether you're just dreaming or actively shopping, bring your questions and learn from others who are navigating the same exciting journey. To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on Boat Buying 101.
Cooking Aboard
One of the best parts of the Great Loop is enjoying good food in beautiful places! Join fellow Loopers to chat about cooking aboard. Some topics this group can cover include galley organization, easy go-to recipes, provisioning strategies, favorite grilling setups, and the appliances cruisers simply can't live without. Whether you're a gourmet chef or prefer one-pot meals and dockside cookouts, this is a great opportunity to swap ideas and pick up a few new tricks. Bring your favorite recipes, galley hacks, and maybe even your best boat meal story! To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on Cooking Aboard.
Loop Technology for Beginners
Technology can make the Great Loop easier, safer, and a whole lot more fun, but it can also feel a little overwhelming at first. If you've ever wondered what apps other Loopers use, how cruisers stay connected, or which onboard systems are actually worth learning, this is the room for you. The conversation may include navigation apps, weather tools, internet and Wi-Fi options, and simple technology that can make life aboard more convenient. No question is too basic, and you certainly don't need to be a "tech person" to join in. Come curious and discover a few tools that might make your Great Loop adventure even more enjoyable. To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on Loop Technology for Beginners.
Georgian Bay
Georgian Bay is often described as one of the most beautiful stretches of the Great Loop, and this breakout room is an opportunity to swap stories, ask questions, and learn from fellow cruisers who have experienced it. Topics may include favorite anchorages, marina and fuel stops, planning tips, must-see destinations, and lessons learned along the way. If you've cruised Georgian Bay and loved it, we'd especially encourage you to join and share what made this area so memorable. And if Georgian Bay is still ahead of you, come curious and bring your questions. Chances are someone in the room has a story or tip that will help make this incredible section of the Loop even more enjoyable. To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on Georgian Bay.
Anchoring
For many Loopers, anchoring can feel a little intimidating at first. Whether you're looking to gain confidence, anchor more often, or simply learn what all the fuss is about, this discussion is for you. This room may include tips for getting started, favorite apps and resources for finding good anchorages, equipment and techniques that work well, and lessons learned from nights spent on the hook. We'd especially encourage experienced anchorers to join and share their favorite spots, best practices, and advice for those who are still building confidence. You may discover that some of your favorite nights on the Great Loop are the ones spent at anchor under a sky full of stars. To get the conversation started now, join this forum thread on Anchoring.
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, July 22nd at noon eastern.
