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Showing posts from February, 2025

Paddle Sailing: A Simpler Way to NanoCruise – With Justin from Travel By Water

What if you could set sail without a trailer, a boat ramp, or even a dock? That’s exactly what Justin from the YouTube channel Travel By Water does through paddle sailing —a minimalist approach to NanoCruising that blends paddling with the power of the wind. In the latest episode of the NanoCruising Podcast , we dive deep into Justin’s journey, from how he got started in paddle sailing to the boats he’s used and built. He shares why paddle sailing can sometimes be a better option than trailer sailing , how to sail upwind effectively, and key safety tips for stability and control . Why Paddle Sailing? Paddle sailing offers a level of freedom and simplicity that even trailer sailors might envy. Without the need for a ramp, marina, or large tow vehicle, a paddle sailor can launch from almost anywhere. It also provides a unique way to interact with the water at a slower, more immersive pace —a true NanoCruising experience. Key Topics in This Episode: ✔️ What is Paddle Sailing? How...
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The Art of Seaworthiness: Sven Yrvind on Solo Sailing, Small Boats, and His Next Big Voyage

When it comes to small boat adventures, few names carry the weight of Sven Yrvind. The legendary sailor, now in his 80s, has spent a lifetime designing and voyaging in tiny, self-built boats—proving that size is no barrier to adventure. In the second part of our interview with Sven, we delve into some of the most fascinating aspects of his sailing life, from navigating fog-bound Newfoundland to the unexpected road trip his boat had to take. Challenging the Seas—and the Authorities  Sven has never let obstacles deter him, but even he wasn’t prepared for the Canadian Coast Guard's refusal to let him set sail. With no option to continue by water, he had to load his tiny vessel onto a U-Haul truck and take an unexpected detour through the U.S. to Maine. For most sailors, this would be a frustrating setback—but for Sven, it was just another chapter in his unpredictable journey. What Makes a Small Boat Seaworthy? If there’s anyone who understands how to make a small boat handle the worst...
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⛵ John Welsford on New Designs, Ocean Dreams, and the Future of Small Boats 🌊

If you enjoyed Part 1 of our conversation with legendary boat designer John Welsford , you’re going to love what’s in store for Part 2. In this episode, John takes us further into his world of small boat innovation and adventure. We kick things off with a look at the new 7-meter ocean-going boat he’s currently designing—something he hasn’t talked much about publicly until now. It’s a boat meant to cross oceans with confidence, while still staying true to Welsford’s core design philosophy: safety, practicality, simplicity, and real-world performance. From there, we dig into the story behind his new design “Scallywag,” which was born out of a desire for a microcruiser like the SCAMP—but with accommodations for longer journeys and sleep-aboard comfort. It’s a design many have been waiting for, and it reflects the continued evolution of small cruising sailboats. John also shares some fantastic anecdotes about his designs out in the wild. We hear about a SCAMP in Tierra del Fuego , and...
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Designing for Adventure: Michael Storer’s Path to Small Boat Innovation

A Passion for Small Boats and Smart Design Michael Storer has made a name for himself in the world of small boat design. His creations, such as the Oz Goose and Oz Racer, have gained a strong following among DIY boatbuilders and NanoCruisers. But how did he get started? In the latest episode of the NanoCruising podcast, we dive into Michael’s journey—his early sailing experiences, how he developed his design philosophy, and the first boat he ever designed. Learning from the Best at DuckFlat Wooden Boats (Australia)  One of the most fascinating parts of Michael’s story is how he learned boat design—not through formal training, but by working as a technical consultant for DuckFlat Wooden Boats (Australia) , where he had access to hundreds of different designs. This hands-on exposure gave him a deep understanding of what works and what doesn’t when it comes to small, efficient boats. Michael’s background in engineering and problem-solving helped him refine his approach, leading t...
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Roger Barnes: Exploring Dinghy Cruising’s Future and Breaking Barriers (Part 2)

Roger Barnes has long been regarded as a cornerstone of the dinghy cruising community. As president of the Dinghy Cruising Association (DCA), a celebrated author, and the creator of a thriving YouTube channel, he has inspired countless adventurers to embrace the joys of small boat sailing. In the second part of our interview, Roger shares more about his journey and the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. Exploring Favorite Cruising Grounds Roger’s passion for exploring unique cruising grounds shines through in this episode. From serene coastal waters to challenging open seas, his experiences provide a window into the diverse beauty of dinghy cruising.  The Role of the Dinghy Cruising Association Under Roger’s leadership, the DCA has become a hub for dinghy sailors worldwide. He discusses how the association fosters a sense of community, provides resources, and encourages members to take on new challenges. Dinghies vs. Yachts: The Unique Appeal What makes dinghy cruising ...
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