yacht design books

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Top 10 Books on Yacht Design

In some parts of the world, Yachts are one of the most commonly spotted vessels that traverse across the coastlines and oceans of earth’s water bodies.

From towering vessels than span nearly 130 feet long to smaller versions that measure just 33 feet in length, yachts are favoured by elite members of society, competitive sportspersons, and tourists from around the globe.

They are generally classified as powered or sail propelled vessels that are built for one of two broad purposes: racing and cruising.

Racing yachts are a common sight along many coastlines, as the sport has gained recognition in recent years. These vessels are built to be light and agile in the water.

They are generally sail propelled and come with a variety of configurations. In general, they do not sport more than 3 to 4 crew members due to space and weight restrictions imposed on the vessel.

Cruising yachts, also known as pleasure yachts, are private or government-owned vessels that are solely used for ferrying passengers or for conducting cruises. They are considerably larger than racing yachts and are built to accommodate more people on board.

They are manned by crews and provide the luxuries of a normal ship. They are classified into different types based on their purpose and ownership. Some cruising yachts that are extremely large (usually above 130 feet in length) are classified as superyachts.

Yachts are classified into categories A – D depending on their ability to handle wind forces and waves. Category A and B are used for oceanic voyages or long passages where winds of 8-40 knots or more can be expected alongside wave heights of 13 feet. Category C is more suited for exposed coastal regions with winds of 6-27 knots and wave heights of 6.6 feet.

Category D yachts are built to handle low wind speeds of 4-16 knots and small weight heights of just 4.6 feet. They are more adept at inland navigation where there is not much danger posed by poor weather conditions.

Designing a yacht is an incredibly precise operation since these vessels must be built to withstand reasonable winds. In addition, they are built as light as possible without compromising on structural strength.

Lastly, they should provide all the facilities of a full ship, while using less than a quarter of the normal space. All these challenges make yacht designing and construction an exciting and challenging field.

In this article, we have included the top ten books on yacht designing. Although in no particular order, they are a must-read for everyone in the maritime industry- from novices looking to start their career in yacht designing, to experienced hands aiming at a refresher course.

Many of you might be surprised to know that the majority of the books in this list were originally published in the late 20th century. The reason for this was due to the early boom and burgeoning demand for yachts during this period.

Several master designers perfected their trade and wrote books to pass the knowledge on to the later generations. Through several reprints and newer editions, these books are still relevant to present-day readers.

Best Books On Yacht Design (In no particular order)

Table of Contents

1. Ed Burnett Yacht Designs: A Selection of Plans, Drawings and Notes

By Ed Burnett

From one of Britain’s most acclaimed naval architects and designers, this book provides a detailed explanation of the steps and processes that go into making one of the most complex vessels on the face of the earth.

Replete with information and guidance from his personal notes, it serves as a perfect guide for anyone looking to gain theoretical knowledge of yacht designing.

The book contains several hand-picked plans and drawings that the author developed during his years of designing yachts. A notable feature is a homage paid to British vessels and yachts that served the general populace for several centuries.

It is undoubtedly the perfect book to begin one’s foray into the world of yacht building.

• Hardcover Book
• Ed Burnett (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 168 Pages - 10/30/2018 (Publication Date) - Left Field Editions (Publisher)

2. Principles of Yacht Design

By Lars Larsson, Rolf Eliasson, and Michael Orych

Considered to be one of the most detailed and complete guides for the art of yacht designing, this book serves as an excellent technical manual and guide.

Complete with minute details and minor points that make all the difference, this 350 plus page guide provides a clear and accurate depiction of this industry. The book has numerous facts and figures to back the technical points and claims furnished throughout its pages.

Included are the various methods, nautical terms, and common specifications. There are also numerous sections that analyze the hull design, yacht hydrostatics, propeller and rudder construction, and ISO standards. For both trainees and master designers alike, this guide is a must-have in your personal collection.

• Lars Larsson (Author)
• 352 Pages - 01/03/2014 (Publication Date) - International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press (Publisher)

3. Yacht Design According to Perry: My Boats and What Shaped Them

By Robert Perry

Written in a clear and easy to understand manner, author Robert Perry presents a compelling read on the fundamentals of yacht designs. Through the various designs that were produced during his illustrious career, he goes into the minor details that turned his vessels from average boats into high-performance yachts.

Famed as the creator of a long line of highly successful racing yachts, his knowledge and designing prowess is visible in this 240-page guide. A notable feature of this book is the insight that Perry provides into what inspired him to begin designing and constructing yachts. For aspiring naval architects, it is a must-read for the sheer value and insight it brings to the table.

• Perry, Robert H. (Author)
• 240 Pages - 12/12/2007 (Publication Date) - International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press (Publisher)

4. Elements of Yacht Design: The Original Edition of the Classic Book of Yacht Design (Seafarer Books)

By Norman L. Skene and Maynard Bray

Famed naval architect Norman Skene’s books have been highly valued and prized amongst novices and experts alike, for the in-depth study of the finer details of yacht design. Although out of circulation since the late 20th century, the most recent reprint of the original book is a must-have for collectors.

Complete with the designs and workings that were actively used during his illustrious career spanning several decades, it serves as an essential guide. Historian Maynard Bray provides an introduction to the works of Skene and the features of the book that make it a must-read.

An interesting feature that differentiates this book from the original one is the expanded topics that are included to make it relevant to the current readers. It also focuses on a more practical approach to yacht designing.

• Skene, Norman L. (Author)
• 256 Pages - 09/01/2001 (Publication Date) - Sheridan House (Publisher)

5. Yacht Design Explained: A Boat Owner’s Guide to the Principles and Practice of Design

By Steve Killing and Douglas Hunter

From author Douglas Hunter and expert yacht designer Steve Killing comes this masterful guide for the domain of yacht designing.

As a book aimed at being relevant to everyone from students to expert designers and competition racers, this book is a must-read for all those who are keen on learning from the experiences of one of the most celebrated yacht designers of the 20th century.

What makes this book stand out is the rich illustrations and notes that can be found on almost every page, making it incredibly easy to understand. The book is complete with vivid graphics, charts, plans, photographs, and detailed technical guides to the constructions and designs of the various components of yachts.

Through the various designs of commercial yachts, the complex math and physics behind vessel behaviour have been lucidly explained such that the reader is able to grasp how different types of boats respond to weather and ocean conditions.

• Hunter, Doug (Author)
• 256 Pages - 08/17/1998 (Publication Date) - W. W. Norton & Company (Publisher)

6. Understanding Yacht Design: For Boat Buyers, Owners and Novice Yacht Designers

By Ian Nicolson

This book serves as an excellent guide for novices, owners, and boat buyers, and provides the reader with a well thought out and detailed understanding of how yachts operate. It includes numerous examples, real-life incidents, and facts to educate the reader about the minute details that go into making performance yachts.

For novices, it is a must-have due to the clear and concise manner in which complex calculations have been presented. Interestingly, the book focuses more on providing practical knowledge to the reader and replaces most of the unwieldy calculations with simpler principles.

For owners and buyers, the book is essential since it focuses on providing them with a complete understanding of the various factors that must be taken into account prior to constructing or buying a yacht.

Overall, it serves to provide the inner workings of yachts and includes several important pointers on how to successfully harness the most out of your vessel.

• Used Book in Good Condition
• Nicolson, Ian (Author)
• 128 Pages - 02/07/2003 (Publication Date) - *Wiley Nautical (Publisher)

7. Worthy of the Sea: K. Aage Nelson and his Legacy of Yacht Design

By Maynard Bray and Tom Jackson

Aimed at presenting the works of lesser-known but the gifted naval architect and master designer Knud Aage Nielsen, this book presents a clear insight into some of his greatest projects. Presented by historians Maynard Bray and Tom Jackson, this book is a must-read for novices and experts alike.

Through the designs and plans for some of Aage’s most famous yachts and vessels, it serves as a guide to the various design aspects that are a must while designing any seaworthy yacht.

Complete with a brief biography and detailed technical analysis of his works, a thorough understanding of the workings of naval architects has been provided in this compelling read.

The book is well suited for people looking to design and construct coastal and offshore yachts, with a special emphasis on wooden boats.

• Bray cofounder "Offf Center Harbor" maritime historian, Maynard (Author)
• 320 Pages - 12/01/2006 (Publication Date) - Tilbury House Distr (Publisher)

8. Philip L. Rhodes and His Yacht Designs

By Richard Henderson

Based on the master naval architect and builder Philip L. Rhodes, this book by author Richard Henderson is a must-read for its lucid and concise style. It presents the designs and plans of several noteworthy Rhodes designs and is complete with the notes that accompanied each design.

It includes a brief history of Rhodes, his origin, involvement, and contributions to the yachting community. The amazingly detailed pictures that are provided in the book also provide a more aesthetic component to the technical book that it is intended to be.

This 400 plus page book is a must-have for yacht designers and those interested in the workings of one the most celebrated yacht designers of the world.

• Henderson, Richard (Author)
• 415 Pages - 09/23/1981 (Publication Date) - International Marine Pub. Co (Publisher)

9. Cruising Yachts: Design and Performance

By Thomas Harrison Butler

Author, medical practitioner, and boat designer Thomas Harrison Butler presents a technical understanding of the yacht building industry in this wonderful read on the subject. Originally published in the early 1900s, this book has withstood the test of time by remaining relevant in today’s times.

Complete with the design and performance considerations that are essential to yachts, this book is essential for anyone keen on developing a foundation in yacht designing.

The book stands out for having been in reprint ever since its first publication and provides insight into the various plans and theories that were prevalent during his time. The book also briefly covers the “metacentric shelf formula” of vessel design, of which Butler was a leading advocate.

• Thomas Harrison Butler (Author)
• 208 Pages - 09/04/2015 (Publication Date) - Lodestar Books (Publisher)

10. Yacht Designs

By William Garden

From acclaimed naval architect and illustrator William Garden, his take on yacht designs is a compelling read that keeps the reader enthralled by the various details that go into designing yachts.

This book is primarily aimed at providing the newer generation of naval architects with a clear pictorial understanding of what goes into generating vessel designs.

Through several diagrams, plans, and handwritten notes on the subject, the reader is gradually made to develop the mindset of a naval architect and is provided with a solid foundation upon which to begin their career.

The numerous notes that are provided throughout the guide make this book all the more valuable. Interestingly, this book dwells more on the history and inspiration behind each vessel, as opposed to being overly technical.

It is an essential read for anyone looking to gain an in-depth understanding of yacht drawing and designs.

• Garden, William (Author)
• 216 Pages - 09/23/1977 (Publication Date) - Intl Marine Pub (Publisher)

Over to you..

Do you think there is any other book that can be added to this list?

Let’s know in the comments below.

You may also like to read:- The Awe-Inspiring Adastra Superyacht

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About Author

Ajay Menon is a graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, with an integrated major in Ocean Engineering and Naval Architecture. Besides writing, he balances chess and works out tunes on his keyboard during his free time.

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Professional BoatBuilder Magazine

Principles of yacht design, 5th edition.

By Jay Paris , Feb 7, 2023

The YD-40, top, with a more traditional keel, appears in the 3rd edition, while the contemporary YD-41, designed for the 4th edition, was built, sailed, and photographed for the 5th.

For decades, Principles of Yacht Design (PoYD) has been the gold standard for practitioners in this line of work. Now in its 5th edition , the book has grown from 352 pages to 400 and from $60 to $90 in retail price, although it can be ordered from Amazon for $64.99. Anyone considering purchasing the 5th edition should be aware that the preface and dust jacket imply it is wholly revised, which is not completely correct. For instance, the YD-41 design example was not developed for this new edition as stated. Rather it is a carryover from the 4th but was built, sailed, and photographed for the 5th. YD-41 is state of the art with its high-aspect-ratio fin keel and a torpedo bulb extending forward of the fin, and twin rudders consistent with the wide stern. It results in a modern hullform that is not very practical for sailing in waters with a high density of crab pots or lobster traps, which could result in snags or wraps. Those interested in designing a hull with a more traditional keel should acquire a copy of the 3rd edition, featuring the YD-40 with its moderate-aspect-ratio fin and a swept-back leading edge.

The increase of 48 pages in the new edition is primarily due to the 35-page chapter on foiling. On the subject of powerboat design, there is a new chapter titled High-Speed Hydrodynamics, which is limited to planing hullforms. For further inquiry into any of the topics, PoYD helpfully mentions numerous sources and offers a reference section at the end that lists the 96 works cited in this edition (up from 71 in the 4th edition), ranging from current studies back to the books of L. Francis Herreshoff and Frank Kinney. The authors are to be congratulated in expanding PoYD and keeping it up to date.

Principles of Yacht Design , by Lars Larsson, Rolf E. Eliasson, and Michal Orych. Adlard Coles, 400 pp., $90, ISBN: 978-1-4729-8192-9.

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Principles of yacht design (hardcover).

Description

Principles of Yacht Design has established itself as the standard book on the subject for practising designers, naval architecture students, discerning boat owners as well as the boatbuilding industry as a whole. The fifth edition is completely revised and expanded. It examines every aspect of the process of yacht and powerboat design. The new edition includes new findings from recent research in aero and hydrodynamics, as well as covering the most recent changes to building standards. The authors have used a newly built 41-foot performance cruiser to demonstrate the practical application of yacht design theory. This new edition includes photos of the building process and detailed explanations.

About the Author

Praise for….

“This book is deeply fascinating . . . a must” — Classic Boat “A sound and up to date manual of yacht design . . . a classic in its field.” — Practical Boat Owner “A definitive work on yacht design.” — Cruising “Ideal for budding designers and mathematically-minded yachtsmen.” — Yachting Monthly “The standard book on the subject.” — Yachting Life

• Sports & Recreation / Water Sports / Boating
• Sports & Recreation / Water Sports / Sailing
• Technology & Engineering / Marine & Naval
• Design / Industrial

My Yacht Designs: The Book

I wrote and produced  MY YACHT DESIGNS and the Lessons they taught me  a few years ago and it was a sellout hit.  There are no more copies available for purchase, except as used books on Amazon.com where the prices range from $436.00 to $966.50! Apparently people like this book that much!

The cost of reprinting is so prohibitive that I have decided against it. Yes, there is demand but not enough for the minimum print run that would cost a fortune. And the day of paper books is behind us now.

Fortunately, there is another option: reading the book on your computer or tablet. So here is the opportunity to purchase the book at a much-reduced price. Once you download it you can return to it whenever you like, or even print any chapters that particularly interest you.

In producing this digital version I have completely re- Photoshopped the many lovely pictures and expanded the captions, plus added eight pages of stunning new photos! The original book consumed nearly four pounds of wood products and toxic color inks plus the carbon required to ship it to you, which took over a week. In downloading your own digital copy you merely move some weightless electrons around, doing your part in saving the earth. Please accept the fact that a very few of the black and white drawings’  lines may not show up perfectly on your monitor or tablet, because it has 72 pixels per square inch versus the 300 in the print version. The photos come through absolutely stunning!

• A fascinating history of a world-famous yacht design office.
• Lavishly illustrated with hundreds of dazzling full color photographs of some of the most beautiful yachts ever designed.
• Designs in both sail and power.
• Packed with valuable lessons that will shortcut any would-be designer’s path to success.
• Presented in pdf format so it reads just like a printed book, with both left and right pages visible. You do not need a proprietary device (Kindle, Nook) to read it- just the computer you’re using now.
• Because of this format, you can print any part or the whole book on your own printer.
• You can zoom in and out to make the page easily readable.
• See the unsolicited reactions below- everyone who has bought this book loves it!
• Many people told me the original hardcover book was grossly underpriced at $59.95 plus $6.05 for shipping. You can have it now for one-third the original price, and no charge for shipping!
• Instant gratification- the download takes about a minute.
• Recently updated to illustrate fascinating new designs.

If you’d like a sample of what the book offers, click here for a PDF of the table of contents and beginning of the first chapter.

SOME REACTIONS TO “MY YACHT DESIGNS”

Unsolicited reactions from some readers: I just read your introduction in Yachting and both cried and laughed. Some years back, my wife and I talked with you about Meridian . We have always loved your designs. T.W.

Your books arrived yesterday and I spent most of last night reading after dinner. I’m one of those that reads and doesn’t look at pictures — I don’t even turn the pages to look ahead at pictures, as that’s cheating.

Very nicely done book, funny in parts, sensitive and warm in others, and full of wisdom throughout. It’s obvious from your book that you love your creations, are passionate about the quest for quality, derive immense enjoyment from what you do and have great respect for the people who worked with you.

Bottom line is your book exceeded my expectations, which were high — KUDOS! P.S.

Chuck, Your book is beautifully laid out, with fantastic photographs. I hope my Dad will be thrilled with the book, and your comments. P.T.

A marvelous story, engagingly narrated with good humor and that great joy of being on the water. Bravo!

A fine book, written with at least some of the “I wish I had’s” that too many autobiographers overlook. W. T.

What a great pleasure to receive your magnum opus. I have found the sections on your early life- both personal and professional- especially rewarding, as well as your reflections on the future of yacht design and construction.

At any rate, I just want to add my congratulations to the rising tide of kudos washing your way. The book is stunning in every respect, and will be treasured by your friends and admirers. J. C.

The book is absolutely gorgeous – well done! J. S.

The book arrived yesterday and it is FANTASTIC! J. F.

Really, it’s an absolute pleasure to read. Often books like this lean to the technical/Socratic (Bob Perry’s book — while excellent — does that); yours is just very honest, and it compliments and pays tribute to so many others. Really nice. P. S.

Just writing to let you know how much I enjoyed your book! I was impressed by how varied your designs were – from traditional to very modern – and all of them beautifully executed. For a person with a long term interest in yacht design this book was a pure pleasure. R. S.

Your books are excellent but quite heavy, I think. It really is a beautiful book. P. C.

I really like this book it gives me insite into chucks designs. the photographs of the boats alone are worth the price of admission. two thumbs up plus. Fred

Congratulations on a great book. Still as cheap as ever, I ordered your book from Inter-library Loan. After reading it thoroughly, I then bought it from your website!

Reading the combination of the designs themselves, together with their objectives, together with your thoughts and methods, together with the narrative of your development of a design practice in late 20th century — extraordinary. It’s a book to own, not just to browse.

For what it’s worth, I’ve sent a review to the Ocean Cruising Club.

All best from Beth and me,

Just received copy of your book. Very impressive, I am very happy to have ordered it.

Congratulations for a fine career and a positive attitude to life. Dr. M. G.

Just finished reading My Yacht Designs cover to cover. Great book! Thanks for the nice inscription and a nice treat to see the photo of you sailing Nester Dinghy. When I first learned the book was self published, my expectations weren’t that high. Most such don’t really make the grade. Yours did and then some. Beautiful design, informative, and exceptionally beautiful boats.

Do I have a gripe? Sure. Being the gearhead I am, I would have loved 3, 4 maybe 5 times as many detail drawings–construction, machinery, rigging details, etc. But then, the book would have been 3, 4, 5 times as long and as expensive. Hey, you can’t have everything . . .

Cheers, Dave

The more I read your book, (over and over) the more I learn. It really is the best book on yacht design I’ve ever read. I hope you’re selling a ton! T. C.

I thought your book was extremely well done. I read it cover to cover and even looked at all the pictures. I cannot think of any way you could have improved it. I expected no less from someone who has spent their career focusing on detail and perfection. D. G.

Your book is terrific.  K. H.

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Yacht Design Books

Discussion in ' Sailboats ' started by Seafra , Sep 2, 2006 .

Seafra Sailing Nerd

I'm looking for some good books on yacht design. I'm looking for books that assume a certain level of confidence and mathematical proficiency, but don't assume you went to school for Marine Architecture. So mainy- not "Yacht Design for Dummies" but not something you'd have a hard time reading through in a master in mechanical engineering. Any recommendations?  

Figgy Senior Member

Did you see the boat design book store? http://books.boatdesign.net/ Most anything you get, you can understand. If you have a good grasp on algebra, your in good shape.  

Ha, great suggestion- I suppose I didn't need to look very far for a library. Any personal suggestions for good/informative reads?  

That depends on a number of things.. Aero-Hydrodynamics of Sailing by C.A.Marchaj is my favorite and has taught me the most of all the books I've read. But thats just me. Somebody will come along soon and suggest some good books for you.  

Crag Cay Senior Member

The two volumes of Sailing Yacht Design and Theory by Andrew Claughton et al, do a reasonable job of supplimenting a book like Larsson and Eliasson's Principals of Yacht Design. Collectivelyb they are prehaps the definitive texts. I would certainly recommend a copy of L&E's book but would hold off on the first two until you can see a copy and deside whether they are what you want, as they are far from cheap. http://books.boatdesign.net/boat/bo...hIndex=Books&Author=A.+R.+Claughton&locale=us  

Chris Ostlind Previous Member

My Take Gosh, there are perhaps a dozen good books to get you going and from there, you'll only be limited by your time and the cash flow available for the enterprise. I like: Yacht Design Explained by Steve Killing The Nature of Boats by Dave Gerr High Performance Sailing by Frank Bethwaite These three books will get you thoroughly immersed in the topic without killing your pocket book. From there, you can quickly expand into the world of sailing as presented by Larsson and Eliasson. The L/E book is much more dense with maths and technical descriptions than is the Killing book. The Killing book will cover all the essential bits in a clean, graphical manner so that the process is clear. I totally enjoy the Gerr book because it touches on all kinds of boaty stuff and is not limited to sailing. I find it extremely helpful to understand the workings of a power boat and its engine(s), propellors and design issues as that knowledge, in many ways, is parrallel to the understanding you will need for sailboats. Bethwaite's book is a knockout for getting to the heart of the matter of performance sailing. He's especially dialed-in to skiff sailing parameters, but many of the issues are universal in nature and contribute a broader whole. After these are the books by Marchaj... and by the time you get to this place, you will have already found many distinct arenas for personal discovery. Try to borrow the Marchaj writings as they are a good deal of money unless you plan on developing a personal, permanent library on the subject. Chris  

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Wow, I appreciate all the recommendations you guys have. I plan to pick up two for now to get my feet wet. I think the L&E(are you talking about Principles of Yacht Design?) and perhaps the Bethwaite book seem like a good place to start. I say this because it's my understanding that L&E are very focused on making a good ocean cruising type vessel in their book, and it would be useful to compliment/contrast that with racing skiff design.  

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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.

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Principles of Yacht Design Hardcover – June 14, 2022

Purchase options and add-ons.

Principles of Yacht Design has established itself as the standard book on the subject for practising designers, naval architecture students, discerning boat owners as well as the boatbuilding industry as a whole. The fifth edition is completely revised and expanded. It examines every aspect of the process of yacht and powerboat design. The new edition includes new findings from recent research in aero and hydrodynamics, as well as covering the most recent changes to building standards. The authors have used a newly built 41-foot performance cruiser to demonstrate the practical application of yacht design theory. This new edition includes photos of the building process and detailed explanations.

• Print length 400 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Adlard Coles
• Publication date June 14, 2022
• Dimensions 8 x 1 x 10.7 inches
• ISBN-10 1472981928
• ISBN-13 978-1472981929
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“This book is deeply fascinating . . . a must” ― Classic Boat “A sound and up to date manual of yacht design . . . a classic in its field.” ― Practical Boat Owner “A definitive work on yacht design.” ― Cruising “Ideal for budding designers and mathematically-minded yachtsmen.” ― Yachting Monthly “The standard book on the subject.” ― Yachting Life

About the Author

Product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Adlard Coles; 5th edition (June 14, 2022)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 400 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1472981928
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1472981929
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 3.05 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8 x 1 x 10.7 inches
• #17 in Marine Engineering
• #126 in Industrial & Product Design
• #138 in Boating (Books)

About the author

Lars larsson.

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