Trailering Adventures with the Potter Yachters: Eric Zilbert on the Joy of the Pottering

If you’ve ever dreamed of hitching up a small sailboat and exploring both lakes and coasts at your own pace, this episode is for you.

We sit down with Eric Zilbert, Commodore of the Potter Yachters, one of the largest and longest-standing trailer sailor clubs in North America. In our conversation, Eric shares how he first fell in love with sailing, how he found his West Wight Potter 19, and how discovering the Potter Yachters transformed his boating life.

🚤 What Makes the Potter 19 Special?

Eric offers great insights into the appeal of the Potter 19—a rugged, trailerable microcruiser known for its accessibility and versatility. He also touches on how it compares to its smaller sibling, the Potter 15, and why he feels the P19 is a great boat for solo sailing, family cruising, and overnight adventures.

🧭 Advice for New Trailer Sailors

For those just starting out, Eric shares real-world tips on finding the right boat, joining a local club, and easing into overnight trips. His experience makes this a particularly encouraging episode for sailors who might be feeling intimidated by the idea of setting off on their own.

🛶 A Club That’s Grown With Its Members

Originally created for owners of West Wight Potters, the Potter Yachters has evolved into a broad and welcoming community of sailors with all kinds of trailerable boats. From weekend lake sails to saltwater adventures like sailing to Catalina Island or even the Sea of Cortez, this club proves that adventure doesn’t require a big boat—just a spirit of curiosity.

If you're looking for inspiration, practical advice, or just a sense of camaraderie in the trailer sailing world, don’t miss this episode.

Visit the Potter Yachters website

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Seas Your Own Adventure 🌊⛵

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