Explore every episode of the podcast NanoCruising : the small boat cruising podcast (dinghy cruising & trailer sailing)
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serge Testa: The Man Who Circled the World in an 11-Foot Boat | 07 Nov 2025 | 00:36:59 | |
In this special episode, we talk with Serge Testa, the Australian sailor who set a world record by circumnavigating the globe in an 11-foot boat — the Acrohc Australis. Serge shares how he designed and built his tiny aluminum yacht, what life was like during his 500-day voyage, and the lessons learned from years at sea. We also hear from his wife, Robin, who offers her candid perspective on the man behind the record — a true doer who fixes problems as they come and keeps moving forward. Serge also tells us what came after the Acrohc Australis — including building bigger boats, new adventures, and why small-boat sailing still holds a special place in his heart. A timeless conversation with a sailor whose story continues to inspire adventurers around the world. 🌊 ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Howard Rice: From Tierra del Fuego to Japan — A Life Shaped by Small Boats | 24 Oct 2025 | 00:41:30 | |
In this second part of our conversation with legendary sailor Howard Rice, we journey with him deep into the wilds of Tierra del Fuego — where he sailed through the same treacherous channels that once confounded Joshua Slocum. Howard recounts the intense reality of navigating the “Milky Way,” his unexpected rescue in one of the most remote regions on earth, and the untold story of the footage that never became a film. Now based in Japan, Howard continues his lifelong pursuit of craftsmanship and adventure, building both SCAMPs and traditional Japanese fishing boats in his workshop. He also shares his reflections on what comes next — the future of small boat voyaging, and his own evolving relationship with the sea. This episode is a rare blend of hard-won experience, deep philosophy, and raw adventure from one of small craft sailing’s true pioneers. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| 🎙️ Finding the Current: Trapper Haskins on Building a Boat, Paddling South, and Rediscovering Himself ⛵ | 20 Jun 2025 | 00:41:05 | |
Trapper Haskins, author of Crooked River, built his own Mississippi Yawl and paddled it all the way to New Orleans—but the real journey was internal. In this heartfelt and candid conversation, Trapper shares the story behind building his boat, the inspiration behind the trip, and how navigating the river helped him navigate a personal crossroads. We dive into the highs and lows of the adventure, the craftsmanship behind his boat, and the mental and emotional clarity that can emerge when we fully commit to something difficult and uncertain. It’s a moving tale of self-reliance, reinvention, and finding purpose on the water. If you’ve ever dreamed of a reset—or just building a boat and heading south—you’ll want to listen to this one. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Epic Journeys in Tiny Boats: Stephen Ladd on Rowing, Sailing, and the Spirit of Adventure ⛵🌎 | 06 Jun 2025 | 00:38:13 | |
In this episode, I’m joined by legendary small-boat adventurer and author Stephen Ladd, known for his remarkable books Three Years in a 12-Foot Boat and The Five-Year Voyage. We dive into the origins of his epic journeys, including designing and building his own 12-foot microcruiser Squeak and navigating thousands of miles of wild and remote waterways—from the Mississippi to the jungles of South America. Stephen shares what it takes to live aboard such a small craft, how he and his partner Ginny voyaged across oceans and rivers, and the emotional highs and lows of long-term small boat travel. We talk about boat design, staying safe, finding joy in simplicity, and how these intimate journeys can lead to deep personal transformation. If you’ve ever dreamed of casting off in a tiny boat and heading into the unknown, this episode is for you. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| ⛵ John Welsford on New Designs, Ocean Dreams, and the Future of Small Boats 🌊 | 23 May 2025 | 00:36:08 | |
In Part 2 of our deep dive with legendary boat designer John Welsford, we go beyond the SCAMP and explore what's next. John shares exciting news about a new 7-meter ocean-going boat currently on his drawing board and introduces us to Scallywag, a design born from sailors dreaming of a SCAMP... with accommodations. We also hear some incredible stories from the field—including Welsford designs voyaging to Tierra del Fuego and playing a part in community building in East Timor. John weighs in on the debate between junk rigs and balanced lug sails, and offers his hopeful perspective on the bright future of small boats and their builders. If you love design talk, big ideas, and small seaworthy boats—you won’t want to miss this one. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| ⛵ From Sketch to Sea: A Conversation with Designer John Welsford (Part 1) ⚓ | 09 May 2025 | 00:31:17 | |
In this first of two special episodes, we sit down with legendary New Zealand boat designer John Welsford, the mind behind some of the world’s most beloved small boat plans—including the hugely popular SCAMP (Small Craft Advisor Magazine Project). John shares the fascinating story of how he got into boat design, how SCAMP came to be, and what makes a good first boat for those curious about building and cruising small sailboats. We also dive into some of the key principles that guide his design work—especially his focus on safety and seaworthiness for real-world adventures. If you've ever thought about building your own microcruiser or just want to hear the wisdom of one of the greats in small boat design, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. 🛠️ Mentioned in the episode: 🎧 Listen now and be inspired to start sketching your dream boat! ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| 🎙️ Canoes, Connection & 24,000km of Wild: A Conversation with Dianne Whelan 🌲 | 25 Apr 2025 | 00:45:44 | |
In this special episode, we sit down with award-winning Canadian filmmaker, author, and adventurer Dianne Whelan, whose film 500 Days in the Wild documents her epic solo journey across the entire 24,000 km of the Trans Canada Trail — by canoe, on foot, and in deep conversation with the land. But this episode goes beyond just the miles and the route. Dianne shares how she discovered a deep love of canoeing, the unexpected lessons from six years on the trail, and how the journey became more than just an expedition — it became a path to reconnection, healing, and respect for Indigenous knowledge and the Earth itself. If you’ve ever felt the pull to slow down, unplug, and listen more closely to the natural world, this conversation will resonate. Dianne’s insights are both powerful and poetic, and her story reminds us that adventure isn’t just about movement — it’s about meaning. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Trailering Adventures with the Potter Yachters: Eric Zilbert on the Joy of the Pottering | 11 Apr 2025 | 00:38:52 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Eric Zilbert, Commodore of the Potter Yachters, one of the largest trailer-sailor clubs in North America. Eric shares his sailing origin story, how he found his West Wight Potter 19, and what drew him to the welcoming community of Potter sailors. We dig into the differences between the Potter 15 and Potter 19, hear about some of Eric’s favorite adventures, and get practical advice for anyone looking to get started with trailerable micro-cruisers. Whether you’re already a trailer-sailor or just small-boat curious, there’s plenty here to inspire your next journey. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Michael Storer on Small Boat Design, Simple Sails, and the Art of Adventure | 28 Mar 2025 | 00:37:17 | |
In this second episode with boat designer Michael Storer, we dive into his innovative small boat designs and the unique advantages of canoe-style sailboats. Michael also shares insights into Real Simple Sails, his company dedicated to making high-quality, affordable sails for home-built boats. Beyond design, we explore his philosophy on small boat sailing—why simplicity, efficiency, and accessibility are key to maximizing adventure on the water. If you're interested in designing, building, or optimizing your own small boat, this episode is packed with expert insights! ------------------------------------------------------ Show Notes: Michael Storer Boat Plans and on Facebook ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Designing for Adventure: Michael Storer’s Path to Small Boat Innovation | 14 Mar 2025 | 00:36:17 | |
Michael Storer is one of the most influential small boat designers today, known for his lightweight, high-performance, and easy-to-build designs like the Oz Goose and Oz Racer. But how did he get started? In this first of two episodes, Michael shares: Michael’s passion for accessible, high-performance small boats is contagious, and this conversation is packed with insights for anyone interested in boat design, NanoCruising, or DIY boatbuilding. #NanoCruising #SmallBoatDesign #SailingPodcast #DIYBoatBuilding #MichaelStorer #DinghySailing #BoatDesign #MicroCruising #MinimalistSailing #OzGoose #OzRacer ------------------------------------------------------ Show Notes: Michael Storer Boat Plans and on Facebook ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Paddle Sailing Adventures with Justin: A Simpler Way to NanoCruise | 28 Feb 2025 | 00:32:14 | |
What if you could set sail without a trailer, a boat ramp, or even a dock? In this episode, we dive into the world of paddle sailing with Justin from the YouTube channel Travel By Water. Justin shares how he got started in this minimalist form of NanoCruising, the boats he's built and used, and the surprising advantages of paddle sailing over traditional trailer sailing. We also cover key techniques like sailing upwind, staying stable, and essential safety considerations. Whether you’re looking for an ultra-portable adventure or a new way to explore the water, this episode is packed with practical advice for getting started in paddle sailing. Tune in and discover why paddle sailing might just be the ultimate way to travel by water. 🌊⛵ #NanoCruising #PaddleSailing #MicroCruising #TravelByWater ----------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Sven Yrvind on Seaworthiness, Solitude, and His Next Big Voyage | 14 Feb 2025 | 00:35:00 | |
In the second part of our conversation with legendary small boat sailor Sven Yrvind, we explore the challenges, philosophies, and innovations behind his lifetime of solo sailing. He recounts his arrival in fog-bound Newfoundland, the unexpected road trip his boat had to take. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Howard Rice: Preparing for the Edge of the World (Part 1) | 10 Oct 2025 | 00:30:32 | |
Few sailors embody the spirit of small-boat adventure like Howard Rice. In this first of two episodes, Howard shares what drives him to journey to the ends of the Earth — from his early training expeditions in a Klepper kayak to the careful preparation of his SCAMP dinghy for one of the most remote and demanding sailing challenges on the planet: Tierra del Fuego. We dive into his motivations, the philosophy behind his voyages, the logistics of shipping a small boat across the world, and the moment his journey began. It’s an intimate and inspiring look at what it takes — both mentally and practically — to pursue a true expedition under sail. If you’ve ever dreamed of pushing beyond your comfort zone in a small boat, this conversation with Howard Rice will remind you why we go. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Sven Yrvind: A Lifetime of Small Boat Adventures – From Island Roots to Revolutionary Designs | 31 Jan 2025 | 00:35:00 | |
In this first of two episodes with legendary sailor and boatbuilder Sven Yrvind, we explore his incredible journey from growing up on a small Swedish island to becoming one of the most respected figures in small boat voyaging. 🌊⛵ ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Christine Berven and the Sparrow 16: Exploring Community, Adventures, and Empowerment in Dinghy Cruising | 17 Jan 2025 | 00:37:40 | |
In this inspiring episode of NanoCruising, we sit down with Christine Bergen, proud owner of a Sparrow 16 and an active member of the Lewis-Clark Sailing Association. Christine shares her journey of finding and setting up her boat, highlighting the unique features that make the Sparrow 16 perfect for her adventures.
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| Roger Barnes: Exploring Dinghy Cruising’s Future and Breaking Barriers (Part 2) | 03 Jan 2025 | 00:31:52 | |
In the second part of our conversation with Roger Barnes, president of the Dinghy Cruising Association and a leading voice in the world of dinghy cruising, we dive into his favorite cruising grounds and the growing popularity of his inspiring YouTube channel. Roger shares insights on the unique joys of dinghy cruising compared to yacht sailing, how the DCA supports adventurers, and tips for overcoming hesitation to embark on your own small boat journeys. Plus, we get a glimpse of Roger's exciting future plans as he continues to shape the world of dinghy cruising. Don't miss this engaging and motivational episode with a true pioneer of the craft. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Exploring the Art of Dinghy Cruising with Roger Barnes (Part 1) | 20 Dec 2024 | 00:32:05 | |
In this captivating first installment of our two-part conversation with Roger Barnes, renowned president of the Dinghy Cruising Association and author of The Dinghy Cruising Companion, we dive into the life and insights of a true dinghy cruising pioneer. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Designing Freedom: Exploring Tiny Boat Adventures with Perttu Korhonen | 06 Dec 2024 | 00:24:02 | |
In this episode of NanoCruising, we dive into the innovative world of Perttu Korhonen, a prolific boat designer from Finland. With over 20 unique designs under his belt, including portable kayaks, ultra-compact sailboats, and his renowned Ocean Explorer, Perttu shares the inspiration behind his creations and the thought process that guides his designs. Join us as we explore his favorite cruising adventures, gain insights into crafting a boat for small, ambitious journeys, and learn practical advice on getting started in NanoCruising. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just dreaming of small boat adventures, Perttu’s story is sure to inspire. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Building a Community: Inside the Cam-Am Dinghy Cruising Association with Kelly Trafford | 22 Nov 2024 | 00:31:39 | |
In this episode, we chat with Kelly Trafford, the founder of the Cam-Am Dinghy Cruising Association. Kelly shares his journey in creating a cross-border community for dinghy cruisers and his vision for connecting like-minded sailors across North America. We discuss the inspiration behind the association, strategies he used to grow the group, the benefits of being part of this unique community, and some of the most memorable events that have brought members together. Plus, Kelly hints at exciting future events and initiatives that aim to keep the community thriving. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Dream Big, Sail Small: Andrew Bedwell's Bold Mission to Break the Smallest Boat Record to Cross the Atlantic | 08 Nov 2024 | 00:38:08 | |
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Andrew Bedwell, an adventurer aiming to break the record for the smallest boat to cross the Atlantic. After a setback with his first attempt from Newfoundland to England, Andrew shares how he’s turning failure into fuel by designing and building an even better vessel for his 2025 voyage. Join us as we dive into his fascinating journey—from finding his first tiny boat, to overcoming challenges, to the ambitious design elements of his new craft. Andrew's insights and advice are a must-hear for dreamers and sailors ready to embrace adventure, no matter the size of the boat. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| A Complex Coast: David Norwell's Kayak Odyssey from Vancouver to Alaska | 25 Oct 2024 | 00:31:47 | |
In this episode of NanoCruising, we sit down with author and adventurer David Norwell to explore the fascinating journey chronicled in his book A Complex Coast. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Building the Next Wave Rover: Alan Mulholland's Journey from Rogue Wave to New Beginnings | 11 Oct 2024 | 00:29:58 | |
In this second episode with Alan Mulholland, the adventurer behind the Wave Rover YouTube channel, we dive into his remarkable story of resilience and renewal. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| From Navy to Pacific - Alan Mulholland's Inspiring DIY Adventures | 27 Sep 2024 | 00:23:03 | |
In this episode of NanoCruising, we sit down with Alan Mulholland, the creator of the popular YouTube channel RoversAdventures, maybe better known as Sailing Wave Rover. Alan shares his fascinating journey from training with the Royal Canadian Navy to becoming a dedicated small boat cruiser. We dive into the story of how he built his first boat, sailed to Hawaii and the South Pacific, and designed his own windvane. Alan also details the modifications made to his Contessa 26 for its Atlantic crossing to the Azores. Join us as we explore the passion and precision behind Alan's adventures on the high seas! ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Designing for Adventure: Roy Schreyer on Small Boats, Big Ideas | 26 Sep 2025 | 00:44:51 | |
Roy Schreyer has spent a lifetime exploring the waterways of Georgian Bay and beyond, but his journey took a new direction when his wife found traditional sailboats less than comfortable. The result? The Dianne Rose, a compact, towable houseboat that combines practicality, comfort, and simplicity — proof that great design comes from real-world needs. In this episode, Roy shares how his wife’s perspective shaped his approach to boat design, why a composting toilet can be a game-changer, and the principles he follows when creating strong, functional boats. We also talk about the Crow, his clever 15-foot sailboat, and the joy of crafting boats that make adventure accessible. If you’re curious about thoughtful design, small-boat cruising, or how to balance comfort with exploration, this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world insight. Also check out his designs at RoyDesignedThat. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Empowered Cruising: Rachel and her adventures with the Guppy 13 and beyond | 13 Sep 2024 | 00:27:52 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Rachel Doss, an inspiring woman sailor who has become the unofficial ambassador of the Guppy 13 sailboat. We explore her journey of discovering the Guppy 13, her thrilling first outing, and her participation in the Texas 200 small boat event. She also shares tips for long-distance trailering, her unforgettable experience during the Salish 100, and even recounts the challenges of being knocked down at sea. We wrap up with the fascinating history of the Guppy/Sparrow design and her essential advice for women sailors. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| From Keelboat to Dinghy: Bruce’s Journey to the Barrier Reefs | 30 Aug 2024 | 00:26:00 | |
In this episode of NanoCruising, we sit down with Bruce from the YouTube channel Sailing Wayfinder. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Windsurfing the Edge: Jono Dunnett's windsurfing Odyssey around Japan | 16 Aug 2024 | 00:16:25 | |
In this thrilling follow-up episode, we continue our conversation with the legendary windsurfer, Jono Dunnett. After his record-breaking windsurfing journeys around Britain and Europe, Jono embarked on his most ambitious challenge yet—circumnavigating Japan. Join us as Jono shares the trials and triumphs of navigating the complex seas of Japan, from battling unpredictable weather to overcoming the language barrier in a foreign land. We also dive into why Jono is committed to documenting his epic adventures through his books and website, and how the support of a dedicated community fuels his passion for pushing the limits of what’s possible on a windsurfer. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or an armchair adventurer, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and the indomitable spirit of a true pioneer. Tune in to explore the fascinating world of windsurfing through the eyes of one of its most daring adventurers. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Epic Windsurfing Adventures with Jono Dunnett: From Britain to Europe | 02 Aug 2024 | 00:19:28 | |
In this thrilling episode of NanoCruising, we sit down with the extraordinary Jono Dunnett, who has not only circumnavigated Britain on a windsurfer but also holds the Guinness World Record for the longest windsurf journey, covering an astonishing 15,000 kilometers around Europe. Currently, Jono is tackling the waters around Japan, continuing his incredible journey. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Building Dreams: Perry Eubank's Journey to an Ocean Capable Small Sailboat | 19 Jul 2024 | 00:22:41 | |
In this exciting episode of Nano Cruising, we sit down with Perry Eubank, the mastermind behind the popular YouTube channel documenting his journey to build an Ocean-Capable Small Sailboat. Perry shares his rich sailing background, the meticulous process of choosing the perfect design, and the unique modifications he's made to tailor the boat to his needs. We delve into the supportive community he's fostered, his future plans once the boat is launched, and much more. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Revolutionizing Small Boat Sailing: An Interview with Derek Ellard of Scruffie Marine | 05 Jul 2024 | 00:20:27 | |
In this episode of NanoCruising, we sit down with Derek Ellard, the visionary founder of Scruffie Marine in Australia. Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Scruffie Marine, exploring Derek's philosophy in boat design and the innovative developments that set his company apart. From the start of his boat-building venture to the adventures of Scruffie Marine owners, Derek shares fascinating stories and insights. We also discuss Derek's groundbreaking zero-carbon initiatives, including solar sail panels and retractable electric drive pods, highlighting his commitment to sustainable sailing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in small boat sailing, sustainable innovations, and the future of marine design. Tune in and discover how Derek Ellard is revolutionizing the world of dinghy cruising.
Go Sail Cargo
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| Sailing the St. Lawrence: Spiro's Adventure from Montreal to Quebec City on a CL16 | 21 Jun 2024 | 00:23:17 | |
In this episode of NanoCruising, we chat with Spiro, an adventurous sailor who undertook an incredible journey from Montreal to Quebec City aboard his trusty CL16, also known as a Wayfarer. Spiro shares his experiences, challenges, and unforgettable moments from this remarkable voyage. Discover what inspired him to set sail on the St. Lawrence River, the preparation involved, and the insights he gained along the way. Tune in to hear about his journey and check out his captivating YouTube series documenting the trip. Whether you're an experienced sailor or a curious beginner, Spiro's story is sure to inspire your own nautical adventures. -------------------------------------------------------- Show Notes
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| RowCruising Adventures: Lorne Kelly's Epic Journeys in His Custom-Built RowCruiser | 07 Jun 2024 | 00:20:07 | |
In this week’s episode of NanoCruising, we have the pleasure of interviewing Lorne Kelly, an adventurous sailor and master boat-builder. Lorne constructed a unique RowCruiser from Angus Boats, a small vessel reminiscent of a kayak but with the added comfort of an enclosed sleeping area. Join us as Lorne shares his incredible experiences navigating the waters of Lake Ontario, Lake Huron, Lake Superior, and the beautiful Parc La Verendrie. From the challenges of building his RowCruiser to the exhilarating moments on the water, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for anyone passionate about small boat cruising. Don’t miss Lorne’s captivating stories and invaluable tips for fellow adventurers!
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| Charting Your Course: Essential Advice and Pro Tips from Sailing Kate Louise | 24 May 2024 | 00:22:07 | |
Embark on a voyage of discovery with Paul from Sailing Kate Louise in our latest episode of NanoCruising! In "Charting Your Course," Paul shares his expert tips, tricks, and essential gear recommendations to help you navigate the waters and set sail with confidence. From mastering the art of anchoring to optimizing your galley setup, Paul covers it all with his trademark enthusiasm and firsthand experience. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just getting started, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and practical advice to elevate your sailing adventures. Tune in to NanoCruising and unlock the secrets to successful cruising with Sailing Kate Louise. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Unveiling the Adventures of Sailing Kate Louise: An Interview with Paul | 10 May 2024 | 00:20:56 | |
Join us for an exciting new episode of NanoCruising as we sit down with Paul from the popular YouTube Channel, Sailing Kate Louise. In this interview, we dive into Paul's background in sailing, his journey to selecting the perfect boat, and the incredible cruising grounds he explores with Kate Louise. From the tranquil waters of Australia's inland lakes to the picturesque landscapes surrounding them, Paul shares his experiences, insights, and favorite destinations for sailing adventures. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or dreaming of your first voyage, this episode offers inspiration and valuable tips for exploring the world of small boat adventures. Tune in to NanoCruising and discover the captivating stories and thrilling escapades of Sailing Kate Louise with Paul at the helm. Don't miss out – subscribe today for more exciting interviews and insights from the world of sailing! ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Paddling for Change: Dan Rubinstein on SUP Adventures, Blue Space, and Protecting Our Waters | 12 Sep 2025 | 00:42:29 | |
What happens when you combine adventure, advocacy, and a paddleboard? Dan Rubinstein set out on a Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) journey from Ottawa to New York and onward to Lake Erie, and along the way discovered more than just miles of water — he found community, kindness, and a deeper understanding of how “blue space” can transform our mental and physical health. In this inspiring conversation, Dan shares:
This isn’t just a story of adventure — it’s a call to rediscover the water in your own backyard and protect it for the future. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Covered Comfort: Exploring Options for Dinghies with Cabins | 26 Apr 2024 | 00:20:49 | |
In the latest episode of NanoCruising, we're delving into the world of covered dinghies, where comfort meets adventure on the open water. Join us as we explore some of the most popular options for sailors seeking shelter and convenience during their voyages.
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| Sailing Freedom: Exploring Open Dinghy Options for Your Next Adventure | 12 Apr 2024 | 00:32:23 | |
Embark on a thrilling voyage of exploration with NanoCruising as we delve into the world of open dinghies perfectly suited for cruising adventures. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Dinghy Explorers: Courageous Tales of Exploration and Adventure | 29 Mar 2024 | 00:23:53 | |
In this captivating episode of NanoCruising, we embark on a thrilling journey into the annals of maritime history, exploring the remarkable exploits of some of history's most courageous dinghy explorers. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Unveiling the Origins of Dinghy Cruising: A Journey Through History | 15 Mar 2024 | 00:17:27 | |
Embark on a captivating journey through maritime history as we explore the origins of dinghy cruising in Episode 2 of NanoCruising. From the humble beginnings of the word "dinghy" to the earliest forms of small boats crafted by ancient civilizations, and the evolution of sailing techniques that have shaped the art of navigation, this episode is a treasure trove of nautical knowledge. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Setting Sail: Introduction to Nano Cruising | 01 Mar 2024 | 00:18:36 | |
Join us for the maiden voyage of NanoCruising, where we hoist the sails and embark on an exhilarating journey into the world of dinghy cruising. In this inaugural episode, your host Stephan Marceau welcomes you aboard and sets the course for the adventures that lie ahead. Discover the allure of small boat voyages, hear captivating stories from seasoned sailors, and learn what it takes to navigate the open seas in a dinghy. So grab your life jacket and join us as we set sail into the horizon of endless possibilities. Key Highlights:
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| Trailer for NanoCruising podcast | 25 Jan 2024 | 00:02:18 | |
In a world where the sea meets the sky, where freedom takes the shape of billowing sails, and every journey is a chance to discover the extraordinary – welcome to the NanoCruising Podcast. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| From Desert to Community: Eric Miller on Launching Raid Erie 2025 | 29 Aug 2025 | 00:38:24 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Eric Miller, the energetic sailor and organizer behind Raid Erie 2025. Eric shares how he first fell in love with small boat sailing and why he felt compelled to create a small-boat event in northern Ohio—a place he calls a “desert” for dinghy sailing. We dive into the story of how Raid Erie came together, what made it such a success, and the lessons Eric learned while turning his idea into a thriving event that drew sailors of all ages. He talks about fostering community, welcoming the next generation, and even hints at future plans—including the possibility of a race/expedition next year. This is an inspiring conversation about what happens when one sailor decides to build a “well in the desert” and discovers just how many others are thirsty for adventure. ⛵ If you’ve ever though about starting a sailing event, growing your local community, or just want to hear how grassroots energy can spark something bigger, this episode will leave you inspired. ------------------------------------------------ ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Cruising Made Easy: Kelly Trafford’s Checklist for Small-Boat Adventures | 15 Aug 2025 | 00:48:12 | |
From anchors to outboards, trailering to the galley, Kelly Trafford joins us to walk through his tried-and-true cruising checklist—packed with practical tips, safety must-dos, and lessons learned the hard way. This episode is a goldmine for small-boat cruisers who want to be ready for anything on the water, and it comes with a downloadable copy of Kelly’s checklist so you can put it to work on your own adventures. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| ⛵ Sailing the Wayfarer Way with Matt Sharman 🌊 | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:26:57 | |
Wayfarer guru, teacher, cruiser, innovator—Matt Sharman shares a lifetime with one iconic boat. In this episode, we sit down with Matt Sharman—a lifelong Wayfarer sailor whose journey began with a hand-me-down boat from his uncle and evolved into a deep, lifelong connection with one of the most beloved dinghies ever built. Matt shares stories from his cruises, his work introducing newcomers to the sport, and his active role in the Wayfarer community—both on the water and online. We also talk about Aero Luff Spars, his ultralight furling and reefing system that’s become a go-to for small boat sailors looking to optimize performance without complexity. Humble but rich with knowledge, Matt reflects on memorable meetings with sailing legends like Ian Proctor (the Wayfarer’s designer) and Frank and Margaret Dye, whose legendary voyages helped define small boat cruising. Whether you're a Wayfarer fan or just exploring what makes a great small cruiser, this conversation has heart, history, and practical advice in equal measure. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| 🌊 Building Better Boats: Sustainable DIY with Sean Petterson of SuperSede 🛶 | 18 Jul 2025 | 00:31:39 | |
In this episode of the NanoCruising Podcast, we sit down with Sean Petterson, co-founder and CEO of SuperSede, to explore a game-changing innovation in boatbuilding: a sustainable, recycled-plastic alternative to marine plywood. Sean shares his own journey into boating and how it led him to help develop SuperCede Marine Board—a structural material designed for boats and marine projects that’s waterproof, durable, and easy to work with. We dive into why this material is especially exciting for DIY boatbuilders and small boat cruisers:
We also discuss where SuperSede works best, how it could change small boat building, and why accessible innovations like this matter to the future of the marine community. If you’ve ever dreamed of building your own boat—or just want to learn about the next wave of sustainable materials—you won’t want to miss this episode.
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| ⛵ Small Boats, Big Community: Dan Roeder and the West Coast Trailer Sailing Squadron 🌊 | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:44:06 | |
Dan Roeder, current lead of the West Coast Trailer Sailing Squadron (Florida), joins us to talk about the vibrant life of a small boat cruising community. In this episode, Dan shares his personal journey into the group, the variety of boats that show up to their events, and the shared joy of trailer sailing. We explore:
Whether you're new to trailer sailing or a seasoned cruiser, this episode is a celebration of camaraderie, exploration, and the joy of small boats. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Cruising Wild: Bass Strait, Capsizes & a Dinghy Around Tasmania | 28 Nov 2025 | 00:48:42 | |
In this episode, I’m joined by Geoff Macqueen — sailor, adventurer, and author of Cruising Wild, his newly released account of circumnavigating Tasmania in his self-built Welsford Houdini dinghy. Geoff takes us deep into the story behind his boat, the spark that led him to attempt a Bass Strait crossing, and the moment everything went wrong: an unexpected capsize in notorious waters, and the detailed, honest retelling of how he recovered and kept going. We talk about:
It’s an honest, insightful conversation about adventure, risk, resilience, and the special joy of traveling slowly in a tiny sailboat. If you’re drawn to dinghy cruising, expedition sailing, or stories of perseverance in the wild, you won’t want to miss this one. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| Graham Byrnes: The Mind Behind the Core Sound 17 — A Conversation on Design, Adventure | 12 Dec 2025 | 00:31:15 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Graham Byrnes of B & B Yacht Designs—the designer whose Core Sound 17 became a legend in small-boat adventuring. Graham shares his early days growing up and sailing in Australia, how meeting his wife led him to the United States, and the origins of B & B Boats. We dive into his first WaterTribe Everglades Challenge and his second attempt—the now-famous 2006 race where he shattered the course record. Graham explains the design principles that made the Core Sound 17 such an unusually capable expedition boat, why the cuddy version differs in important ways, and what he’s learned from the many adventures his boats have taken sailors on. He also offers practical advice for small-boat cruisers—especially his core belief: be prepared.
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| From Workshop to Open Water: Sea Trials of an Ocean-Capable Small Sailboat | 26 Dec 2025 | 00:35:34 | |
What happens when a bold small-boat idea finally leaves the dock? In this follow-up conversation, Perry returns to NanoCruising to share the results of real-world sea trials of his Ocean-Capable Small Sailboat. After months of building and planning, the boat has now logged serious miles offshore, offering honest feedback that no design software or dockside discussion can replace. We talk about how the boat handled in open water, what stood out once conditions became real, and how sea trials shape the next round of decisions. Perry reflects on the balance between ambition and practicality, why testing matters more than opinions, and how incremental refinement is part of designing a capable small cruising boat. This episode is a thoughtful look at experimentation, learning by doing, and the mindset required to turn unconventional ideas into seaworthy reality — a conversation that will resonate with designers, builders, and anyone curious about pushing small boats beyond the expected. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||
| John Harris & Chesapeake Light Craft: Building Small Boats, and a Life Around Them (Part 1) | 09 Jan 2026 | 00:34:30 | |
Chesapeake Light Craft (CLC) has been shaping the world of small boats and home boatbuilding for more than three decades. In this first of two episodes, I sit down with John Harris, founder of CLC Boats, to explore how a passion for small craft turned into one of the most influential boatbuilding companies in the world. We talk about the early days of CLC, the challenges of building a niche business, and why small boats have always been at the heart of John’s work. John shares insights into the different kinds of boatbuilders he designs for, how CLC supports first-time builders, and what truly makes a good small-boat design — beyond just performance or looks. Of course, we also dive into one of CLC’s most iconic designs, the PocketShip, and why it continues to resonate so strongly with sailors drawn to capable, human-scale cruising boats. This episode is part business story, part design philosophy, and part celebration of small boats — and it sets the stage perfectly for Part 2. ----------------------------------------------------- | |||