John Harris & Chesapeake Light Craft: Building Small Boats, and a Life Around Them (Part 1)

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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.

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