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Showing posts from October, 2024

Exploring "A Complex Coast" with David Norwell: A Kayaking Journey of Adventure and Reflection

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 ...
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Building the New Wave Rover: Alan Mulholland’s Journey from Rogue Wave to Renewal

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...
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Popular posts from this blog

Designing for Adventure: Michael Storer’s Path to Small Boat Innovation

A Passion for Small Boats and Smart Design Michael Storer has made a name for himself in the world of small boat design. His creations, such as the Oz Goose and Oz Racer, have gained a strong following among DIY boatbuilders and NanoCruisers. But how did he get started? In the latest episode of the NanoCruising podcast, we dive into Michael’s journey—his early sailing experiences, how he developed his design philosophy, and the first boat he ever designed. Learning from the Best at DuckFlat Wooden Boats (Australia)  One of the most fascinating parts of Michael’s story is how he learned boat design—not through formal training, but by working as a technical consultant for DuckFlat Wooden Boats (Australia) , where he had access to hundreds of different designs. This hands-on exposure gave him a deep understanding of what works and what doesn’t when it comes to small, efficient boats. Michael’s background in engineering and problem-solving helped him refine his approach, leading t...
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Roger Barnes: Exploring Dinghy Cruising’s Future and Breaking Barriers (Part 2)

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 ...
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⛵ John Welsford on New Designs, Ocean Dreams, and the Future of Small Boats 🌊

If you enjoyed Part 1 of our conversation with legendary boat designer John Welsford , you’re going to love what’s in store for Part 2. In this episode, John takes us further into his world of small boat innovation and adventure. We kick things off with a look at the new 7-meter ocean-going boat he’s currently designing—something he hasn’t talked much about publicly until now. It’s a boat meant to cross oceans with confidence, while still staying true to Welsford’s core design philosophy: safety, practicality, simplicity, and real-world performance. From there, we dig into the story behind his new design “Scallywag,” which was born out of a desire for a microcruiser like the SCAMP—but with accommodations for longer journeys and sleep-aboard comfort. It’s a design many have been waiting for, and it reflects the continued evolution of small cruising sailboats. John also shares some fantastic anecdotes about his designs out in the wild. We hear about a SCAMP in Tierra del Fuego , and...
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