Building Small Boats, Sustainably: A Conversation with Sean Petterson of SuperSede

At NanoCruising, we’re always interested in innovations that make small boat adventures more accessible, practical, and sustainable. In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Sean Petterson, CEO and co-founder of SuperSede, to talk about a material that could reshape DIY boatbuilding: SuperSede Marine Board, a next-generation alternative to marine plywood.

What is SuperSede Marine Board?

SuperSede Marine Board is made from recycled plastic, designed as a waterproof, structural solution for marine projects. For small boat builders and DIY enthusiasts, this means no worries about rot, no need for epoxy sealing, and fewer tools required to shape and work with the material. It’s a fresh option for those building boats in garages, backyards, or even apartments.

Why It Matters for Small Boat DIY

Sean talks about his path into boating and how the idea for SuperSede came from a desire to simplify boatbuilding while reducing environmental impact. For small boat builders and cruisers, this material offers:

Simplified construction – fewer chemicals and tools
Long-term durability – resistant to water and UV damage
Eco-conscious design – made from recycled plastics
Versatility – ideal for dinghies, tenders, small cruisers, and components

The Future of Boatbuilding?

Could this material become the new standard for small boats? We explore the possibilities, along with the challenges of moving away from traditional materials. Sean shares real-world use cases, advice for builders, and his excitement for what’s next.

If you’ve ever considered building your own boat—or just want to stay up to date on sustainable marine innovations—this is an episode you’ll want to check out.

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Seas Your Own Adventure 🌊⛵

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