The golden hues of sunset gently kiss the horizon as boaters, especially those on America’s Great Loop (Loopers), gather for a cherished evening ritual known as “Docktails.” This convivial gathering is a hallmark of life on the water, where the camaraderie is as vast as the open seas themselves. As the evening cools and the stars begin to twinkle, boaters converge around their vessels with glasses in hand, ready to unwind after a day of cruising.
Each boater brings their favorite personal beverage—be it a crisp beer, a glass of fine wine, or perhaps a uniquely mixed cocktail reflecting their tastes or the local flavor. Accompanying these beverages are a variety of snack items, ranging from dips and cheeses to boat-cooked delights, which are generously shared among all attendees, creating a potluck of tastes and friendships.
The atmosphere at Docktails is relaxed and casual, yet there are elements of etiquette that everyone respects to enhance the experience. It is customary for each participant to bring their own chair, ensuring there is always a seat ready for an impromptu story or laughter shared under the twilight sky.
The tradition of exchanging Boat Cards—akin to business cards—takes center stage during these gatherings. These cards not only serve as a form of personal introduction but also act as mementos of the connections formed along the journey.
The conversations at docktails mainly revolve around personal introductions, and boating, featuring stories, tips, and crucial insights about upcoming destinations. It’s an excellent way to gather information about marinas, towns, and navigational hazards on the upcoming route. Etiquette dictates that discussions surrounding politics or religion are verboten! We all try to keep it friendly and avoid controversial topics.
Though traditionally held on docks, Docktails are versatile and can occur in various settings. Marina meeting rooms often serve as excellent venues, especially in inclement weather. We held a Halloween docktail celebration in the bathrooms in Alton, Mississippi because that was the only warm dry place available. (It was snowing and sleeting with temps around 30°. Many times, a hospitable boater will offer their flybridge or salon as the evening’s gathering ground, adding a personal touch to the occasion.
A famous (infamous) Looper, Herb on Phantom, had a large open cockpit on his boat that he called his “Porch.” An invitation to Herb’s “Porchtails” was a treasured event when doing the Great Loop!
Another variation is the Boat Crawl, where boaters open up their boats, and the group moves from boat to boat for a tour and snacks. It’s a great way to learn about the features of other boat brands. Just try to avoid getting engine room or galley envy!
Docktails, while centered around fostering friendships and exchanging stories, are also a delightful venue for sharing snacks that satisfy a variety of palates. When selecting the ideal snacks to bring, consider ease of preparation, portability, and general appeal. Here are some suggestions that are sure to be a hit at any Docktails gathering:
- Cheese and Charcuterie Platters: These are always a crowd-pleaser. A selection of cheeses, ranging from sharp cheddars to creamy bries, paired with cured meats like salami and prosciutto, can cater to many tastes. Add some crackers, breadsticks, or sliced baguette, and you have a sophisticated yet simple offering.
- Vegetable Platters with Dip: Crisp, fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper strips are both healthy and refreshing. Serve them with a variety of dips such as hummus, ranch, or guacamole for a colorful and appetizing snack.
- Fruit Skewers: Easy to prepare and visually appealing, fruit skewers can include a medley of grapes, strawberries, pineapple chunks, and melon. Drizzle with a bit of honey or sprinkle with mint for an extra touch.
- Popcorn: This snack is not only easy to transport but also versatile. Try offering traditional salted popcorn, or kick it up a notch with flavors like caramel, cheese, or a spicy chili seasoning.
- Mini Quiches or Savory Muffins: These can be made ahead of time and are packed with flavor. Ingredients like spinach, feta, bacon, and cheddar offer a satisfying bite-sized snack that’s perfect for mingling guests.
- Deviled Eggs: A classic party snack, deviled eggs are simple to make and can be spiced up with ingredients like mustard, paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce.
- Bruschetta or Crostini: Toasted slices of baguette topped with a variety of ingredients make for a delectable treat. Try classic tomato-basil bruschetta, or get creative with toppings like goat cheese and roasted red peppers or olive tapenade.
- Nuts and Trail Mixes: For those who prefer quick, snackable items, a bowl of mixed nuts or a sweet-and-savory trail mix can satisfy this need. Add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or pretzels for a mix that covers all flavor profiles.
- Shrimp Cocktail: Offering pre-cooked shrimp with a tangy cocktail sauce is both an elegant and delicious option that requires minimal preparation.
- Wrap Bites or Pinwheels: Made with tortillas filled with a selection of meats, cheeses, and veggies, then rolled and sliced into bite-sized pieces, these are both filling and easy to manage while standing and chatting.
As Docktails are as much about the space and ambiance as they are about the food, keeping snacks bite-sized and easy to handle is key. Aim for items that don’t require much in terms of utensils, allowing everyone to grab a bite as they continue to socialize and share stories. Remember, part of the charm is in the sharing, making this the perfect opportunity to introduce fellow boaters to some of your favorite snacks or to discover new ones from others.
A quick reminder: If your snack contains potential allergens like peanuts, milk, or soy, please put a small label on it so others are aware. Also, if your offering contains some sort of meat product that is not obvious (I love anything fried in bacon fat!), out of respect for the vegetarians among us, please label any meat products. Speaking of labels, if you want your plates, bowls, and serving utensils back, be sure to label them with your boat name and phone number!
The spirit of community and mutual respect is at the heart of the Docktails tradition. As the night draws to a close, everyone participates in the cleanup, ensuring that the space remains as pristine as it was at the start. This collective effort leaves the docks or meeting areas tidy and strengthens the bonds formed over the evening. Whether swapping stories, discovering new cruising routes, or simply enjoying the pleasure of each other’s company, Docktails remains a cherished tradition among boaters, especially those on the Great Loop. You will make new friends that you will meet downstream and foster friendships that can last well beyond your current trip.
What is your beverage of choice for docktails? What’s your favorite docktail treat?
Share it in the comments below! 
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