John Vigor is a longtime newspaperman and a former South African sailing champion. In 1987, John and his family began their new life in America. He now lives in Washington State, where he sails on Puget Sound and continues to write. He is a regular contributor to GOOD OLD BOAT magazine.

A well-written and thoroughly enjoyable book, Small Boat to Freedom is no mere sailing story. The interweaving of South African politics, the history of the places visited, and the emotions of their departure add much depth to this tale.