Send us a text

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.

-----------------------------------------------------

Join the conversation: Facebook group Mailing list Patreon

More at: www.nanocruising.com

Seas Your Own Adventure 🌊⛵

Send us a text

What happens when a bold small-boat idea finally leaves the dock?

In this follow-up conversation, Perry returns to NanoCruising to share the results of real-world sea trials of his Ocean-Capable Small Sailboat. After months of building and planning, the boat has now logged serious miles offshore, offering honest feedback that no design software or dockside discussion can replace.

We talk about how the boat handled in open water, what stood out once conditions became real, and how sea trials shape the next round of decisions. Perry reflects on the balance between ambition and practicality, why testing matters more than opinions, and how incremental refinement is part of designing a capable small cruising boat.

This episode is a thoughtful look at experimentation, learning by doing, and the mindset required to turn unconventional ideas into seaworthy reality — a conversation that will resonate with designers, builders, and anyone curious about pushing small boats beyond the expected.

-----------------------------------------------------

Join the conversation: Facebook group Mailing list Patreon

More at: www.nanocruising.com

Seas Your Own Adventure 🌊⛵

Send us a text

In this episode, I sit down with Graham Byrnes of B & B Yacht Designs—the designer whose Core Sound 17 became a legend in small-boat adventuring. Graham shares his early days growing up and sailing in Australia, how meeting his wife led him to the United States, and the origins of B & B Boats.

We dive into his first WaterTribe Everglades Challenge and his second attempt—the now-famous 2006 race where he shattered the course record. Graham explains the design principles that made the Core Sound 17 such an unusually capable expedition boat, why the cuddy version differs in important ways, and what he’s learned from the many adventures his boats have taken sailors on.

He also offers practical advice for small-boat cruisers—especially his core belief: be prepared.

A great conversation with one of the most influential designers in modern small-craft sailing.

-----------------------------------------------------

Join the conversation: Facebook group Mailing list Patreon

More at: www.nanocruising.com

Seas Your Own Adventure 🌊⛵