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Texas 200 Secrets & Small Boat Adventures with Eric Dahlkamp

 


 

Texas 200, Small Boats, and Adventures with Eric Dahlkamp 
 
The Texas 200 is one of the ultimate small-boat challenges—long, unpredictable, and a real test of preparation and skill. Few sailors have tackled it multiple times, and even fewer have done it while documenting the lessons along the way. 
 
Enter Eric Dahlkamp: a sailor, builder, and adventurer who has taken on the Texas 200 several times, built and upgraded a range of boats, and learned first-hand what it takes to succeed. 
 

 
How It All Started 
 
In this episode of NanoCruising, Eric shares how he got into sailing and the journey that led him to small-boat adventures. From his earliest experiences to designing and rebuilding boats, he’s cultivated a philosophy of simplicity, practicality, and enjoyment on the water. 
 

 
Boats, Builds, and Upgrades 
 
Eric has a history of taking boats apart, tweaking them, and turning them into capable cruising platforms. His 13’ trimaran, "Squirt", was an example of a small boat pushed to its limits as an expedition vessel. Lately, he’s been working on a rejuvenated O’Day 19 Camp Cruiser—perfectly suited for multi-day trips and even another Texas 200 run. 
 
 
Preparing for the Texas 200 
 
The heart of the episode is all about the Texas 200. Eric walks us through: 
 

  • How to get ready for the race 
  • What to focus on when preparing a small boat 
  • Lessons learned from multiple attempts 
  • What matters most when you’re out there on the water 
 
For anyone considering the Texas 200—or any long small-boat adventure—Eric’s insights are invaluable. 
 
 
Real Advice for NanoCruisers 
 
If you’re planning your first overnight trip or dreaming of a multi-day challenge, this episode is full of practical tips and inspiration. Eric’s experiences show how preparation, the right mindset, and thoughtful boat choices make all the difference. 
 
 
If you love small boat cruising, racing, or just hearing stories from sailors who’ve been there, this episode is one to check out. 

#NanoCruising #Texas200 #SmallBoat #TrailerSailing #DinghyCruising #BoatLife #AdventureSailing 
 

 

🌊 Join the NanoCruising community! Be part of the conversation in our Facebook Group — share your adventures, ideas, and small-boat stories.

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www.nanocruising.com
Seas Your Own Adventure ⛵

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