NanoCruising

In our latest NanoCruising episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with David Norwell, author of A Complex Coast , which chronicles his remarkable kayaking journey from Vancouver Island to Alaska.  This epic adventure along the Pacific Northwest’s wild coastline is far more than a physical expedition—it’s a profound exploration of personal growth, environmental awareness, and the intricate relationship between humans and nature. David’s book delves into the natural beauty and ecological challenges of this iconic coastline. Along the way, he reflects on the wildlife encounters, dramatic seascapes, and the communities he meets, all while grappling with the mental and emotional challenges of such a demanding journey. His storytelling is rich with insight, balancing thrilling adventure with deep contemplation. In our conversation, David shared the inspiration behind his trip, detailing how this journey transformed his views on environmental stewardship and personal resilience. As we expl

In the second part of our interview with Alan Mulholland, the man behind the Rovers Adventure YouTube channel, we explore a tale of resilience and innovation that will inspire sailors and adventurers alike. Alan’s journey took a dramatic turn when a rogue wave hit his Contessa 26 on his way back to the Caribbean, forcing him to rethink his plans and his vessel. This near-disaster could have been the end of his sailing adventures, but instead, it marked a new beginning. Facing the Challenge of COVID at Sea After surviving the rogue wave and making it safely back to Martinique during the height of the COVID-19 lockdowns, Alan had to navigate a whole new set of challenges. Being far from home and with restrictions in place, he had to plan his journey back to Canada. However, the time ashore gave Alan the space to reflect on his future, and it was then that the idea of a new boat began to take shape. Community Support and a New Vision Thanks to the encouragement from his YouTube community

In the latest episode of NanoCruising , we have the pleasure of sitting down with Alan Mulholland, the man behind the popular YouTube channel Rover's Adventure , maybe better known as Sailing Wave Rover . Alan has a fascinating story that’s sure to inspire small boat sailors and adventurers alike. From his roots in the Royal Canadian Navy to becoming a DIY boat builder and completing epic voyages, Alan’s journey is a perfect blend of technical know-how and adventurous spirit. In this first part of a two-episode series, we dive into Alan’s early life and career in the Royal Canadian Navy, which provided him with essential skills for his later sailing adventures. After leaving the Navy, Alan took on the ambitious task of building his own sailboat which he would set sail for some incredible destinations. We also get into Alan’s incredible voyage with his father to Hawaii and his solo trip to the South Pacific. He shares the joys and challenges of that expedition and how it shaped his

In the world of NanoCruising, few stories are as empowering as that of our latest guest, Rachel Doss who has earned the unofficial title of ambassador for the Guppy 13 sailboat. A small boat with a big heart, the Guppy 13 has become her trusted companion on a series of adventures that are both inspiring and instructive for aspiring sailors, especially women looking to embark on their own journeys. Her journey with the Guppy 13 began with a fortuitous discovery. As a sailor looking for the perfect boat, she came across the Guppy 13, a design that perfectly suited her adventurous spirit. In our latest podcast episode, she shares the excitement of finding her, and of her first outing.  One of the highlights of her sailing career was participating in the Texas 200, an annual small-boat event that covers hundreds of miles along the Texas coast. The Texas 200 which was a true test of her skills and the boat’s capabilities. Her stories of the event offer valuable insights and lessons for anyo

I have covered this in episode 3 of the NanoCruising podcast , but thought it might be worthy of its own blog post in case people are simply searching on the web. I get no affiliate marketing, but people are frequently asking me this question. So, let's start with some minimalistic Open Dinghies: The Sunfish and the Laser sailboats The Sunfish and Laser are excellent examples of minimalistic dinghies that are both accessible and capable, making them ideal for newcomers to NanoCruising. These boats are light, simple, and easy to handle, which reduces the learning curve for those just starting out.  Sunfish: The Sunfish is a classic, beloved for its simplicity and durability. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to experience the joys of NanoCruising without the complexity of larger boats. The open design offers an intimate connection with the water, allowing sailors to feel every wave and breeze, which is both exhilarating and educational. Its lightweight structure makes it easy

In the latest episode of NanoCruising , we had the pleasure of speaking with Bruce Dyson-Smith, the man behind the intriguing YouTube channel Sailing Wayfinder . Bruce’s story is one of transformation, adventure, and a deep love for the sea. In his sailing journey he lived aboard a keelboat, but over time, he felt the pull towards the simplicity and intimacy of dinghy cruising. This shift led him to a whole new world of exploration, where every voyage is about the essentials—no frills, just the boat, the water, and the horizon. Bruce’s transition from keelboat to dinghy cruising is a fascinating one. He shares how the experience of offshore racing compares to the close-to-nature adventures of dinghy sailing. But the highlight of our conversation is Bruce’s ambitious and breathtaking cruise to the Great Barrier Reefs in Australia. This journey, which became his most-viewed video on YouTube, is a testament to his meticulous preparation, seamanship, and love for the ocean’s beauty. Throug