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Home » Blog » Gear » 25 sailing books every sailor should read

25 sailing books every sailor should read

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: January 26, 2023

THE BEST SAILING BOOKS INSPIRE YOU TO GET OUT THERE

Whether you’re looking to do some armchair sailing during the off-season or stock up your floating library with sailing stories for summer cruising, these are the best sailing books for adventure and inspiration.

In this list, you’ll find books about sailing around the world, first-hand accounts of daring Antarctic adventures, true crime nautical thrillers, and meditative musings about life at sea. Be sure to let us know your favorite sailing books in the comments below.

If you’re looking for reference books on boat maintenance and how to sail, check out our post on the nautical books we’ll never go to sea without .

A quick note that this post contains affiliate links (so if you purchase through a link we’ll earn a small commission). All the opinions are our own.

Best books about sailing around the world

1. the long way – bernard moitessier.

This is the book that inspired us to buy a boat and go sailing! Bernard Moitessier was a French sailor who raced in the 1968 Golden Globe, the first single-handed around the world race.

He sails from England alone for several months and when it seems he is just about to win…(well, I won’t spoil it for you!). His account is a great adventure story and also a deep meditation on zen philosophy.

2. Sailing Alone Around the World – Joshua Slocum

Joshua Slocum’s  Sailing Alone Around the World  is a really interesting account of the first solo-circumnavigation. It would be an interesting account even if it were written today but is especially so due to the fact that the events he recounts take place prior to the 20th century.

In many ways, Slocum was the first cruiser and the trouble he gets himself into, the people he meets, and the places he goes are things to which we can all relate.

3. A World of My Own – Robin Knox-Johnston

Robin Knox-Johnston’s account of his non-stop solo-circumnavigation of the world. He presents a vivid and  vulnerable portrait of a sailor attempting to accomplish what most thought impossible.

It’s a testament to the ability of the human mind to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and heartening for fellow sailors who will encounter situations that put their own courage to the test. It’s a great read and details one of the most incredible feats of the modern era.

4. Dove – Robin Lee Graham

Dove is a book for those who dream of sailing around the world.

In 1965, 16-year-old Robin Lee Graham set off from California in 24-footer on a solo round-the-world voyage. After 5 years and 33,000 miles, he returns with a wife and daughter. His adventures in between are recounted in this best-selling book.

5. Gipsy Moth Circles The World – Francis Chichester

In August 1966, Francis Chichester set out from Plymouth on his 53-foot ketch “Gypsy Moth VI”. He would become the first person to make a one-stop round the world circumnavigation.

Chichester’s journey set records, earned him a knighthood, and fueled the ambition of the next generation of sailors, to become the first to sail around the world non-stop in the 1968 Golden Globe Race.

6. Maiden Voyage – Tania Aebi with Bernadette Brennan

At 18 years old, Tania Aebi was going nowhere, until her father presented her with an ultimatum: she could go to college or get a boat. She chose the latter and for the next two and a half years and 27,000 miles, she sailed the world with only her cat as a companion.

Sailing adventure books

7. an island to oneself – tom neale.

New Zealander, Tom Neale travels to Suwarrow, a remote South Pacific atoll, and spends 16 years living alone and off the land. If you’ve ever fantasized about living on a remote South Pacific Island, this book is for you.

8. Sailing & Mountain Exploration Books  – H.W. Tilman

Considered one of the greatest adventurers of our time, Tilman has sailed and climbed in some of the world’s most remote and environments. His sailing books are must-reads for those who dream of straying from the beaten path and sailing in high-latitudes.

9. Kon-Tiki: Across the Pacific in a Raft – Thor Heyerdahl

Kon-Tiki was the first book about sailing that I ever read.  And really it is more about adventuring than sailing. The sheer foolhardiness of building a balsa wood raft and sailing it 4000 miles from Peru to Tahiti is enough to pique the interest of any adventurous soul.

It’s fascinating to read the various ways that the four men on the raft handled the, at times, boring, stressful, exciting, and survival situations in which they were placed.

Sailing thriller books

10. and the sea will tell – vincent bugliosi.

In this terrifying true story, two couples sail to a remote Pacific atoll, but only one couple makes it off the Island alive. As told by the defense lawyer, Vincent Bugliosi (who also prosecuted Charles Manson), the investigation that follows is a riveting true-crime murder mystery.

And the Sea Will Tell reconstructs the events and recounts the trial that follows. The first half of the book is a real page-turner. The second half delves into technical aspects of the court case which makes for a less compelling read (unless perhaps you’re a lawyer!).

11. The Perfect Storm – Sebastian Junger

A real-life thriller, this book is likely to scare you out of ever leaving land, but it will also give you an appreciation of the sheer power of weather in the Atlantic Ocean.

Junger tells the story of the Perfect Storm, a record topping storm that hit the east coast of North America in the fall of 1991. It follows the accounts of the crews of the fishing boat, a sailboat, and the U.S. Coast Guard as they battle to survive the severe conditions.

12. Adrift: Seventy-six Days Lost at Sea – Steven Callahan

A staggering survival story written by Steven Callahan about 76 days spent in a life raft in the Atlantic Ocean.

Only six days out, Callahan’s small sloop capsizes and he’s left battling for survival in an inflatable raft. “Adrift” was on the New York Times bestseller list for more than thirty-six weeks when it first came out.

13. Godforsaken Sea – Derek Lundy

Godforsaken Sea  recounts the running of the 1996-97 Vendée Globe. On 3 November 1996, sixteen sailors set out to race around the world single-handed. Only six completed the course. The book explores what compels a sailor to go to sea why the Vendée Globe racers were willing to risk everything.

Sailing and cruising stories

14. the curve of time – m. wylie blanchet.

The story of a single mother in the 1920s with 3 children and a dog, exploring Vancouver Island’s inside passage.

In 1926 Muriel “Capi” Wylie Blanchet, a Vancouver Island resident, tragically lost her husband Geoffrey when he took their 25 ft cabin cruiser “Caprice” out on a solo camping trip and never returned. Rather than sell the boat, she took her three young children and dog on summer sojourns, exploring the pristine BC coast with nothing but her wits to rely on.

She documents her many adventures: piloting through whirlpools, run-ins with bears and cougars, climbing thousand-foot cliffs, and exploring abandoned First Nations villages. Her account is both inspiring and a reminder to slow down, appreciate the beauty of nature, and be present with those you love.

One of the few books to make our list of best sailing books that doesn’t take place on a sailboat!

15. Seraffyn’s European Adventure – Lin and Larry Pardey

Lin and Larry Pardey are living proof that you don’t need to be wealthy to see the world. They traveled for 26 years (covering the equivalent of 5 circumnavigations) in their home-built cutters, Seraffyn and Taleisin.

In Seraffyn’s European Adventure the young couple journey in their 24ft boat to the Baltic, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Germany. Without engine, electronics, or gadgetry these scrappy sailors accomplish remarkable things through sheer endurance and resourcefulness.

Their stories are as salty as it gets and their message is freedom: “Go small, go simple, go now.”

16. The Log from the Sea of Cortez – John Steinbeck

An account of the six-week scientific expedition made by John Steinbeck in 1940 with marine biologist Ed Ricketts, collecting marine specimens as they travel through the Sea of Cortez.

The book recounts bizarre sea creatures, funny anecdotes about the eccentric crew, and Steinbeck/Ricketts’ life philosophies. A good read if you’re planning to visit Mexico.

17. The Boat Who Wouldn’t Float – Farley Mowat

If you’ve ever cursed your boat, you’ll sympathize with the exasperated (but ever hopeful) Mowat in “The Boat Who Wouldn’t Float”.

Seeking adventure, Mowat hopes to buy a boat , a proud and seaworthy vessel, and roam the seven seas. Instead, he gets the worst boat ever and nearly goes mad trying to keep it from sinking.

18. Passage to Juneau – Jonathan Raban

Raban sails from Seattle to Juneau in a small boat, deftly describing the history of First Nations, Captain Vancouver, and life at sea as he travels up the coast.

More than just a travelogue, Raban recounts personal challenges: his relationship with his father, and being a good dad to his young daughter Julia. The Pacific Northwest history is absolutely fascinating and Raban is a deep and thoughtful soul who you can’t help but empathize with.

19. The Incredible Voyage – Tristan Jones

With wit and style, Tristan Jones tells the story of his 6-year voyage where he sailed a distance equal to twice the circumference of the world. His adventures include capsizing off the Cape of Good Hope, starving in the Amazon, and dodging snipers on the Red Sea.

20. Looking for a Ship – John McPhee

John McPhee, considered one of the pioneers of creative nonfiction, recounts a 42-day journey from Charleston down the Pacific coast of South America on one of the last American merchant ships, the S.S. Stella Lykes.

21. My Old Man and the Sea – David Hays, Daniel Hays

An account of an ambitious father-son project: build a boat and take on Cape Horn. With nothing more than a compass, sextant, and pet cat, the father and son duo are tested on an incredible voyage. Told in alternating sections by father and son.

Best Nautical Novels

22. Moby Dick – Herman Melville

No list of classic sailing novels would be complete without Moby Dick.

The story follows a whaler captain’s quest for revenge against the giant sperm whale, Moby Dick. Written by Herman Melville in 1851, it’s considered one of the “Great American Novels”.

23. The Old Man and the Sea – Ernest Hemingway

24. Master and Commander – Patrick O’Brian

Published in 1969, this nautical novel was the start of a 20-book series. Set at the turn of the 19th century, the story follows a young Jack Aubrey, who has recently been promoted to the rank of Master and Commander.

Sailing logbook

25. Sailing logbook

The best sailing stories are the ones you create!  Pick up one of these hardcover logbooks to record your nautical travels.

Looking for more great sailing stories? Check out our posts on sailing vlogs and sailing podcasts .

Do you have any suggestions for other inspirational sailing books? We’d love to get your recommendations – please leave them in the comment box below.

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

Monday 1st of April 2019

Hi there! Great post, but my all time favorite is “South Sea Vagabonds” by John Wray!

Niah Vaughan

Saturday 16th of March 2019

The Loneliest Race by Paul Gelder. Is a must read.

Wednesday 27th of March 2019

Thanks Niah. I've been thinking about writing a post on sailing race books - there are some many good ones!

Michael Robertson

Friday 15th of March 2019

Overlooked on this list and many others is the great "The Water in Between" by Kevin Patterson.

Yes indeed - that's a great recommendation.

Jean Baillargeon

Hi Fiona n Robin, Hope you’re not missing the heat of the SP too too much. If I may suggest a few more books for your great list.

Anything by Moitessier of course, specially «Vagabond des mers du Sud» (telling of his learning to sail in Vietnam as a young man), and «Tamata et l’Alliance», (his last book written during his years living in French Polynesia) Quick english titles list here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=moitessier+bernard&crid=DQW3GY4NSYPS&sprefix=Moitessier%2Caps%2C446&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_10

Anything about Éric Tabarly, there are one or two bios and he wrote one account of his winning the BOAC. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=tabarly&crid=C9Q57RE444SF&sprefix=Tabarly%2Caps%2C872&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_5_5

And my welsh mother in law would be very disappointed in me if I did not recommend Tristan Jones’ books. His are tall tales that sometimes strech believability, but they sure a great read. Typical welsh storyteller with a knack for spinning a good yarn with priceless tongue in cheek humour. Also of interest to handicapped sailors, Jones lost a leg to diabetes on one of his crossings, but kept sailing for many years afterwards. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=tristan+jones+books&crid=11M2GS14E6MD4&sprefix=tristan+jones%2Caps%2C1327&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_4_13

These are great! Thank you Jean. Hope you're finding lots of time for reading on the boat in paradise :)

Darlene Kristi

You did miss a riveting true story, which won the National Outdoor Book Award for best book of the year! Journey of A Hope Merchant - from Apartheid to the Elite World of Solo Yacht Racing. by Neal Petersen

Wow this sounds fascinating! We'll check it out. Thanks Darlene.

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32 Best Sailing Books For Current and Future Yachtsmen

Heading out on a sailing adventure? Need some inspiration away from the YouTube creators we often featured? Then you’re in the right place.

We have rounded up the best books for sailing enthusiasts. You’ll find highly respected books on racing, cruising and sailboat maintenance for your next adventure on the open seas!

1. Chapman Piloting & Seamanship 69th Edition

One of the best sailing books available, the Chapman Piloting & Seamanship 69th Edition is a comprehensive book with descriptions, illustrations, and pictures for every situation.

Whether the need is a guide for it all or looking for some tips, the book has an easy-to-use index that makes it simple to find information. 

2. The Complete Sailing Manual  

The Complete Sailing Manual by Steve Sleight is a detailed book written by sailors for sailors. 

It delves into the latest advancements in sailing, keeping the reader updated and ready to handle any situation.

3. Fifty Places to Sail Before You Die

Searching for a new, exciting place to sail can be exhausting. Chris Santella has an extensive list of options to bring back that exhilaration.

The handy guide gets inspiration by asking well-known sailors and athletes about their favorite places to sail.

4. The Ultimate Book of Everyday Knots  

Every sailor needs to know how to tie a good knot, and Geoffrey Budworth has a fantastic instruction tool to start.

This book has illustrations of common knots used in sailing and other sports, with directions to ensure every tie is a success.

5. Bargain Boats and Budget Cruising  

Sailing can be an expensive hobby, but it doesn’t have to be. Todd Duff has expert advice to keep the cost down.

This guide goes through the process of finding an economical boat and refitting it, so you can enjoy the water without breaking the bank.

6. Illustrated Sail & Rig Tuning  

Sometimes a picture can be just what’s needed, and Ivar Dedekam has detailed illustrations for everything relating to sailing.

This handy guide explains the necessities of sailing and the theories to get the most out of any boat.

7. The Alaska Cruise Handbook  

The wild waters of Alaska are a worthy goal for any sailor. With insights from Joe Upton, planning a journey through the Alaskan coast is more than practical.

Plan ports and explore the natural beauties of Alaska from the comfort of a personal sailboat.

8. The Sailing Bible

Jeremy Evans, Pat Manley, and Barrie Smith put together an extensive work covering the basics of sailing to niche activities like racing.

Even the most seasoned sailors can find something in one of the best sailing books around to enrich their knowledge, and beginners will feel ready to hit the water.

9. World Cruising Essentials  

Taking on a long voyage can seem like a daunting task. Jimmy Cornell’s World Cruising Essentials makes the trip doable. This happens to be my favorite book on this list!

Learn about everything to prepare for the cruise and get crucial tips for spending the days at sea.

10. Landfalls of Paradise  

Exploring the Pacific Islands can be a dreamy escape, and Earl R. Hinz’s writing makes it a carefree journey.

This guide has updated charts and descriptions to help make any sailing through the Pacific Islands easy to plan and execute. 

11. The Voyager’s Handbook  

Extended trips are one of the most fulfilling ways to experience life on the open seas, and Beth Leonard has a handbook to achieve it. Another personal favorite!

It not only covers the essentials needed on the boat but explains practical tips for keeping boat life enjoyable.

12. The World’s Best Sailboats: Boxset Vol.1&2  

Ferenc Máté’s The World’s Best Sailboats has detailed pictures, illustrations, and descriptions of the finest boats in the world. Enjoy appreciating the fine craftsmanship while learning what makes certain boats excel.

This volume isn’t only fun to flick through as its information can be invaluable when selecting a boat.

13. The Big Book of Boat Canvas  

Customizing a boat can be a fun way to make the vessel feel like home. One option is canvas, and Karen Lipe is here to explain multiple sewing projects.

From practical objects like sail covers to interior cushions, the options are endless in this handbook.

14. Sailing: The Basics  

Newcomers will appreciate Dave Franzel’s book as it helps people get on the water and become sailors in no time. It follows his fundamental principle that time in the water is key to learning, so it gets through the essentials fast.

Get from the docks to the water in record time, and feel confident doing it.

15. The Blue Book of Sailing  

Adam Cort hopes to take the reader of any experience level and turn them into true sailing experts. Through simple lessons, it explains everything needed to sail.

Some basic knowledge of sailing can be necessary for reading, but anyone will benefit from the tips.

16. BoatSense: Lessons and Yarns from a Marine Writer’s Life Afloat  

Combining narrative and guidebook, the unique BoatSense: Lessons and Yarns from a Marine Writer’s Life Afloat gives realistic tips based on Doug Logan’s experience.

The true tales from this sailor aren’t just for fun, as they pleasantly explain crucial teachings that are usually exclusive to years of sailing.

17. The International Marine Book of Sailing  

The International Marine Book of Sailing by William Robinson is great for beginners looking to learn everything. 

This book has handy illustrations and other valuable insights neatly organized to get the reader ready to sail as soon as possible.

18. The Ashley Book of Knots  

This comprehensive book covers around 3,900 types of knots with brief descriptions, drawn guides, and other information. 

This manual not only covers basic knots but includes complex versions that can be used on the boat or to impress friends.

19. The Handbook Of Sailing  

For visual learners, Bob Bond has thousands of diagrams and color photos to explore the basic techniques of setting sail. 

The guidebook has helpful descriptions to accompany the pictures and assists the reader through any situation.

20. Sailing America  

See the beauties of the United States from coast to coast in this picture collection from Onne van der Wal. Enjoy the views from the sea without even sailing across thousands of miles.

Whether it’s for inspiration or to admire the expert photography, any sailor can appreciate the beautiful landscapes in this book.

21. The Annapolis Book of Seamanship  

Another comprehensive guide that covers everything from the basics to handling extreme conditions. John Rousmaniere is on hand to get the reader for any sailing situation.

This book progresses from the simplest tasks to the most challenging endeavors, with traditional techniques mixed with newer innovations.

22. Desirable and Undesirable Characteristics of the Offshore Yachts 

Searching for a sea-worthy vessel can be a challenging task, but Steven L. Davis aims to make it much easier.

This guidebook examines trends and other information to prepare the reader for the boat market. That data will be invaluable to understanding what to look for when choosing their own.

23. Sailing Is Fun!: A Beginners Manual For Young Sailors  

Kids looking to sail can learn the basics from Charles D. Dawson. His book uses only simple terms, making it easy for children to follow.

It stresses water safety to keep youngsters safe, and it’s an invaluable tool for anyone wanting to pass on sailing traditions.

24. The Best Used Boat Notebook  

A cost-effective way to get into sailing is through a used boat, and The Best Used Boat Notebook from John Kretschmer gives every tip needed. 

This detailed guide breaks down the specifics any potential boat owner should know.

25. The Cruising Guide to the Virgin Islands 

Explore the crystal waters of the Virgin Islands with help from Simon Scott’s experience. 

It also includes a handy chart that folds out to aid your plans for the sailing voyage.

26. Marina’s Best  

A significant portion of sailing is in marinas, and anyone hoping to manage their marina can get the knowledge necessary from Dr. Amos Raviv.

This work guides the reader through everything necessary to run a marina and ensures sailors understand the rules and regulations of marina use.

27. Crewing to Win

Racing sailboats is an intense sport, and it relies on crew teamwork. To build the best team, try reading Crewing to Win by Saskia Clark.

This handbook explains how to form a team, set goals, and keep things running smoothly out on the water.

28. Building Outrigger Sailing Canoes

Outrigger canoes are a unique and traditional form of sailing, often handmade by indigenous Hawaiians .

Building Outrigger Sailing Canoes by Gary Dierking helps explain the best way to create an outrigger canoe with contemporary methods.

29. Reeds Skipper’s Handbook  

Owning a small index of essential knowledge can be invaluable at sea, and Malcolm Pearson’s Reeds Skipper’s Handbook is just that.

This book is an indispensable guide for any experienced sailor, as it’s easy to reference and find exactly what you’re looking for.

30. The Best of Sail Trim  

This volume is a compilation of the best articles from SAIL magazine, collected for ease of access. Explore tips ranging from cruises to racing.

The information in this book is easy and enjoyable to read while giving plenty of priceless tips.

31. Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules: 2021-2024 Rules  

Get into racing with this complete guide Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules: 2021-2024 Rules. Written by the Olympic sailor Paul Elvstrom, learn all the ins and outs to win first place.

This book has a quick reference guide for racing flags and ways to help plan the best course.

32. Maneuver and Dock Your Sailboat Under Power  

Docking a boat can be one of the most challenging tasks a sailor can undertake. Maneuver and Dock Your Sailboat Under Power by Grant Headifen prepares the reader for docking in any condition.

Feel confident sailing into the marina with one of the best sailing books focused on navigation, and never risk bumping into the docks again.

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Books for sailors: our pick of the best new releases

• Julia Jones
• April 21, 2022

Yachting Monthly literary contributor Julia Jones reviews all the latest new releases to pick the best books for sailors this summer

Credit: Getty

Looking for inspiration for your holiday reading list?

From solo sailing adventures to practical seamanship , here are the best books for sailors to read over the summer.

The Temptress Voyages

Edward Allcard’s first two books Single-Handed Voyage (1950) and Temptress Returns (1951) chronicle his pioneering voyages both ways across the Atlantic .

He bought the elderly 34’ yawl Temptress as an antidote to postwar malaise, then set out to put himself and his yacht to the test.

He began his 81-day single-handed crossing to New York in May 1949, spending hours at the tiller or hove-to.

This arduous existence represented freedom.

He felt regret as well as triumph when he reached America, then regret when he was eventually obliged to leave.

The return voyage almost cost his life but later, when he was joined by Otilia the stowaway, he also discovered friendship.

These two volumes of struggle and self-discovery are classics of their time.

The Temptress Voyages by Edward Allcard, Lodestar, £12

Buy The Temptress Voyages at Amazon (UK)

Buy The Temptress Voyages at Foyles (UK)

Old Man Sailing

Old Man Sailing has become a word-of-mouth bestseller among sailing titles.

In March 2020 John Passmore was content on his Rival 32 Samsara , the wrong side of the Lowestoft Harbour bridge.

Three months lockdown was imminent. He shifted his berth within the hour.

Then, after some careful provisioning he moved to the Walton Backwaters to complete preparations, observe quarantine and pick a weather window before leaving for the Azores northabout Shetland.

When he returned, six weeks and 3,629 miles later, his action had caught the public imagination.

Passmore, a former journalist, is an accomplished writer able to shape his anecdotes and remain wryly entertaining as well as thought-provoking throughout.

These qualities will ensure Old Man Sailing continues to be read long after lockdown has faded from memory.

Old Man Sailing by John Passmore, Samsara Press, £10.24

Buy Old Man Sailing at Amazon (UK)

Buy Old Man Sailing at Amazon (US)

Buy Old Man Sailing at Audible

Addicted to More Adventure

A new collection of Bob Shepton’s adventures is an immediate pleasure.

Perhaps, as he’s a chaplain by trade, it’s not surprising that there is also a message: ‘Risk is good, enjoy it’.

Ellen Massey Leonard’s afterword spells out the essential connection between risk and joy. ‘Bob has found joy throughout his life in climbing unclimbed cliffs […] and in reaching some of the world’s most remote wildernesses under sail.’

In many of the voyages described here his role is to help others achieve similar experiences.

As well as leading a west-east return through the North-West passage, he acts as a delivery skipper and a sailing master and conveys other, younger, mountaineers to make those thrilling first ascents that are now beyond his reach.

Addicted to More Adventure by Bob Shepton, Amazon, £15

Buy Addicted to More Adventure at Amazon (UK)

Buy Addicted to More Adventure at Amazon (US)

Buy Addicted to More Adventure at Waterstones (UK)

A River in Borneo

Richard Woodman insists that this is his last novel and it’s one of his best, which is why it has been included in our books for sailors list.

A River in Borneo is set in the Malaysian and Indonesian waters he explored as a junior officer in the 1960s Merchant Navy.

The sailing scenes are pure delight as Captain Harry Kirton handles his elderly brigantine as if she were a yacht.

The central action is set in the mid 19th century and Kirton must learn to navigate the sensitivities of different ethnic groups within his crew with the same skill that he negotiates the intricate island passages between the Sulu and Celebes Seas.

Moulded by pain, Kirton is one of Woodman’s most psychologically interesting characters. If this is Woodman’s swansong, it’s a good way to go.

A River in Borneo by Richard Woodman, McBooks Press, £21.95

Buy A River in Borneo at Amazon (UK)

Buy A River in Borneo at Amazon (US)

Buy A River in Borneo at Waterstones (UK)

The Sea is not made of Water

This is a book with the wow factor.

It’s an astonishingly wide-ranging tour-de-force which finally reaches the assertion that the sea ‘is a world to come alongside, to be-with in ways that go beyond the predatory’.

Whilst most sailors will have little trouble with this concept, Nicolson works his way towards it from a coast-based perspective.

Although he does sail out towards Lismore Lighthouse in the Sound of Mull, in a 16ft wooden lugger, his interest is in observation of the inter-tidal rocks, weeds, creatures and legends.

Writing on tides he highlights the Newtonian theory that what we experience is not the sea being pulled about the surface of the earth, but the turning of the earth under the surface covering of the sea – a concept both awe-inspiring and giddying.

The Sea is not made of Water by Adam Nicolson, Harper Collins, £20

Buy The Sea is not made of Water at Amazon (UK)

Buy The Sea is not made of Water at Amazon (US)

Buy The Sea is not made of Water at Waterstones (UK)

Buy The Sea is not made of Water at Audible

Continues below…

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The Five Year Voyage: Exploring Latin American Coasts and Rivers

When the wanderlust returned he had a partner, Ginny, equally eager for adventure, so adapted a slightly larger boat.

Thurston was an adapted Sea Pearl 21, a two-masted trailersailer , drawing only 9 inches.

They added a cabin top, drinking water ballast, stowage and a sliding seat rowing system.

Two years later, having travelled from Florida to Panama, they added a Honda 2hp outboard.

This enabled them to spend a further three years exploring the coastline and great rivers of South America as far as Buenos Aires.

On the way they married and had a baby.

This is an intensely impressive small boat voyage. It’s also grippingly readable.

The Five-Year Voyage : Exploring Latin American Coasts and Rivers by Stephen Ladd, Seekers Press, £15.99

Buy The Five Year Voyage at Amazon (UK)

Buy The Five Year Voyage at Amazon (US)

Essential Boat Electronics

Electrics are the ‘number 1 problem on any boat’ states the blurb.

While some may wish to challenge this, the fact remains that recent decades have seen an unprecedented increase in the complexity of systems on even the most modest cruising yacht.

Often these systems have been overlaid on one another as new needs have been identified or earlier installations found inadequate.

This useful guide avoids too much theory but encourages better organisation and an understanding of personal priorities.

Even those of us who are privately determined to use professionals wherever possible, it would be well advised to read this book and keep it on board, for the moments when self-reliance is unavoidable.

This is not a problem that’s set to go away.

Essential Boat Electronics 3rd edition by Oliver Ballam and Pat Manley, Fernhurst Books, £16.99

Buy Essential Boat Electronics at Amazon (UK)

Buy Essential Boat Electronics at Amazon (US)

The Shetland Sea Murders

The Shetland Sea Murders is the 9th book in an established series featuring sailor Cas Lynch, but can be read as a standalone thriller.

The story starts will Lynch running her last charter of the season, which is disrupted by a VHF radio call from the Shetland coastguard.

What follows is two apparently unrelated murders, and soon Lynch herself is under threat.

Fans of Ann Cleeves’ Vera Stanhope series will throughly enjoy the plot’s twists and turns.

It will certainly keep you entertained!

Buy The Shetland Sea Murders at Amazon (UK )

Buy The Shetland Sea Murders at Amazon (US)

Buy The Shetland Sea Murders at Waterstones

Buy The Shetland Sea Murders at Audible

The Dinghy Cruising Companion

This is the second edition of an important book, and deserves inclusion in our list of books for sailors.

Roger Barnes’s writing recalls Maurice Griffiths’s titles of the 1930s – Magic of the Swatchways and Ten Small Yachts – where the romance of solitude and the challenge of self-reliance took people and their boats to unexpected anchorages, as well as into the warmth of the pub at the end of the day.

Like Griffiths, Barnes writes beautifully but also offers sound, experience-based advice and discusses the qualities of different types of vessel as well as rigs, equipment and modifications.

It’s arguable we would all be better sailors if we reminded ourselves more often of the interplay of wind and waves experienced from inside the hull of a dinghy .

The Dinghy Cruising Companion (2nd edition) by Roger Barnes, Adlard Coles, £16.99

Buy The Dinghy Cruising Companion at Amazon (UK)

Buy The Dinghy Cruising Companion at Amazon (US)

Buy The Dinghy Cruising Companion at Waterstones (UK)

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Visit the Yachting Monthly Book Club for more of the best sailing books released this year.

If you have recommendations for books for sailors – get in touch at [email protected]

Enjoyed reading Books for sailors: our pick of the best new releases?

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