NanoCruising

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 ...