NanoCruising

What if you could set sail without a trailer, a boat ramp, or even a dock? That’s exactly what Justin from the YouTube channel Travel By Water does through paddle sailing —a minimalist approach to NanoCruising that blends paddling with the power of the wind. In the latest episode of the NanoCruising Podcast , we dive deep into Justin’s journey, from how he got started in paddle sailing to the boats he’s used and built. He shares why paddle sailing can sometimes be a better option than trailer sailing , how to sail upwind effectively, and key safety tips for stability and control . Why Paddle Sailing? Paddle sailing offers a level of freedom and simplicity that even trailer sailors might envy. Without the need for a ramp, marina, or large tow vehicle, a paddle sailor can launch from almost anywhere. It also provides a unique way to interact with the water at a slower, more immersive pace —a true NanoCruising experience. Key Topics in This Episode: ✔️ What is Paddle Sailing? How...

When it comes to small boat adventures, few names carry the weight of Sven Yrvind. The legendary sailor, now in his 80s, has spent a lifetime designing and voyaging in tiny, self-built boats—proving that size is no barrier to adventure. In the second part of our interview with Sven, we delve into some of the most fascinating aspects of his sailing life, from navigating fog-bound Newfoundland to the unexpected road trip his boat had to take. Challenging the Seas—and the Authorities  Sven has never let obstacles deter him, but even he wasn’t prepared for the Canadian Coast Guard's refusal to let him set sail. With no option to continue by water, he had to load his tiny vessel onto a U-Haul truck and take an unexpected detour through the U.S. to Maine. For most sailors, this would be a frustrating setback—but for Sven, it was just another chapter in his unpredictable journey. What Makes a Small Boat Seaworthy? If there’s anyone who understands how to make a small boat handle the worst...

Few sailors embody the spirit of NanoCruising like Sven Yrvind. At 85 years old, he continues to design and sail tiny boats across vast oceans, proving that adventure isn’t about the size of your vessel, but the strength of your vision. In the first of two episodes with Sven, we dive into his remarkable journey—from growing up on a small island in Sweden to becoming a world-renowned small-boat sailor and designer. A Childhood Shaped by the Sea Sven’s love for the ocean started early. Growing up on a small island, he developed a deep appreciation for self-sufficiency and resilience. His first major voyage—a daring trip to Denmark in a tiny homemade boat—set the stage for a lifetime of innovative and ambitious adventures. Designing Bris and Challenging the Norm Sven’s first famous boat, Bris, challenged traditional ideas of offshore sailing. Built with simplicity and efficiency in mind, it showcased his philosophy: a well-designed small boat can be safer, more practical, and more efficie...

When it comes to NanoCruising, every sailor's journey is unique, but some stories resonate deeply with the spirit of adventure and community. In our latest episode of NanoCruising, we had the privilege to chat with Christine Berven, an accomplished sailor, proud owner of a Sparrow 16, and a very active member of the Lewis-Clark Sailing Association (She was Commodore, and now runs the cruising activities). Christine’s journey is an inspiring one. From finding and customizing her Sparrow 16 to fit her cruising lifestyle, to exploring the breathtaking waters of Northern Idaho, the Salish Sea, and the San Juan Islands, her experiences highlight the joys of small boat cruising. But Christine’s story is about more than just adventure—it's about building a community and empowering others. Highlights of the Episode The Sparrow 16 Advantage: Christine discusses why the Sparrow 16 is her boat of choice, detailing its features and her personal setup tips that make it perfect for NanoCrui...

Roger Barnes has long been regarded as a cornerstone of the dinghy cruising community. As president of the Dinghy Cruising Association (DCA), a celebrated author, and the creator of a thriving YouTube channel, he has inspired countless adventurers to embrace the joys of small boat sailing. In the second part of our interview, Roger shares more about his journey and the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. Exploring Favorite Cruising Grounds Roger’s passion for exploring unique cruising grounds shines through in this episode. From serene coastal waters to challenging open seas, his experiences provide a window into the diverse beauty of dinghy cruising.  The Role of the Dinghy Cruising Association Under Roger’s leadership, the DCA has become a hub for dinghy sailors worldwide. He discusses how the association fosters a sense of community, provides resources, and encourages members to take on new challenges. Dinghies vs. Yachts: The Unique Appeal What makes dinghy cruising ...

 If you’re passionate about dinghy cruising or just beginning to dip your toes into the world of small-boat adventures, our latest interview is one you won’t want to miss! We had the honor of sitting down with Roger Barnes , president of the Dinghy Cruising Association and the highly respected author of The Dinghy Cruising Companion. Known globally for his profound knowledge and contributions to dinghy cruising, Roger has inspired countless sailors with his practical advice, adventurous spirit, and dedication to the craft. In this first part of our two-part interview series, Roger takes us on a personal journey through his own discovery of dinghy cruising. We explore his selection process for his beloved Ilur dinghy, a design that’s well-suited to his style and needs, as well as his advice on the essential features that make a great cruising dinghy. His reflections on choosing a boat are sure to resonate with anyone who’s faced the question of which design to sail. One of the stand...