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If you’re a sailor, you know that there’s nothing quite like the open sea. The sun on your face, the wind in your hair, and the waves crashing against your boat’s hull – it’s a feeling that can’t be captured anywhere else.
You are reading: Best sailing adventure books
We’ve put together a list of our favorite sailing books that inspire that passion and some of the best sailing guides to get you sailing.
From sailing adventure novels to nonfiction books about sailing around the world, there’s something for everyone on this list. We’ve also included sailing books for cruisers and liveaboards that share insights and stories about the sailing lifestyle.
So, whether you’re looking for a new book to read on your next boat trip or just curious about life on the ocean, be sure to check out our picks for the best books for boaters.
nautical adventure books – non-fiction
Non-fiction sailing books offer sailors a glimpse into the real dangers and thrills of life at sea. some of the most fantastic adventure stories deal with life on the open sea. These books of survival, exploration, and determination will leave a lasting impression and a sense of respect for the sea.
1. adrift: 76 days lost at sea
by steven callahan
Adrift is a non-fiction book by Steven Callahan that tells the story of his 1982 sailing expedition, during which he was stranded in a lifeboat for 76 days.
The book tells his story as he struggles to survive against all odds. This is an original and true adventure story that should be on every sailor’s reading list.
2. the strange last trip of donald crowhurst
by nicholas tomalin
The Strange Last Voyage of Donald Crowhurst is a nonfiction book by Nicholas Tomalin that tells the story of amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst, a man who attempted the Golden Globe Race around the world in 1968.
The book follows Crowhurst’s journey and reveals the mental cost of this solo career for a sailor.
3. the testing ground
Bruce Knecht
the proving ground is about the world famous sydney to hobart yacht race of 1998. a distance of just 630 nautical miles, it’s considered one of the most challenging races in the world, but it would also turn fatal this year in particular.
A massive storm with 80 knot gusts and huge waves ripped apart the racing yachts, killing six sailors and stranding 55 others. The book follows the stories of three of the yachts struggling to survive and shows how those people from different backgrounds reacted to the disaster.
This story of courage, determination and tragedy has been described as the “perfect storm” version of a sailing race. Even if you know nothing about racing or sailing, you may find this book interesting and entertaining to read.
4. The Resistance: Shackleton’s Incredible Journey
by alfred lansing
endurance is a non-fiction book by alfred lansing that tells the story of sir ernest shackleton’s expedition to antarctica in 1914. the book follows the voyage of endurance, a ship that became trapped in an ice pack and eventually was destroyed.
This book is one of the most remarkable survival stories ever told. It gets even more interesting as the remains of the Endurance were recently found in March 2022 over 10,000 feet under the Weddell Sea.
5. in the heart of the sea
the tragedy of the essex whaler by nathaniel philbrick
In the Heart of the Sea is a non-fiction book by Nathaniel Philbrick that reveals the true story of the Essex Whaling Ship, the ship that served as the inspiration for the timeless classic Moby-Dick.
In 1820, the essex was attacked by a giant sperm whale and the crew was forced to abandon ship. they sailed for more than 90 days in small boats before finally being rescued. this is a seafaring book about true survival and the unforgivable nature of the sea.
6. the perfect storm
a true story of men against the sea by sebastian junger
the perfect storm is a nonfiction book by sebastian junger that tells the story of the perfect storm of 1991, a hurricane that caused massive damage along the east coast of the united states.
The book follows the lives of fishermen caught in the storm and paints a vivid picture of how dangerous a storm can be at sea.
7. adrift
a true story of love, loss and survival at sea by tami oldham ashcraft
adrift is an autobiography by tami oldham ashcraft about two adventurous souls and their journey by ship from tahiti to california. During this trip, Tami and his fiancee encounter a cataphoric hurricane that severely damages the sailboat.
This book is a true sailing survival story of a woman dealing with loss while battling impossible odds.
8. the silent world
by jacques cousteau
The father of diving first introduced us to the mysteries of the underwater world in his book The Silent World. This book was published before Cousteau’s TV series and literally dives into the beginning of scuba diving and underwater adventure.
This book will delight mariners who are also scuba divers and are interested in exploring and discovering the deep sea as it was first explored through scuba diving in the 1950s.
9. kon-tiki: crossing the Pacific on a raft
by thor heyerdahl
The Kon-Tiki Expedition was a famous 1947 voyage from South America to Polynesia on a raft constructed of balsa wood and bamboo. the team consisted of six men. The trip was designed to test Heyerdahl’s theory that ancient Polynesians might have settled South America, and it turned out to be a success.
This book is another fascinating true story of 20th century ship expedition and exploration.
nautical adventure books – fiction
Nautical adventure books are a great way to get lost in a story while enjoying the open sea. these novels often follow the journey of a sailing ship or crew struggling to survive at sea or a perilous voyage into uncharted waters. They are perfect for anyone who loves adventure and suspense or wants to escape from the real world.
These are some of our favorite fictional books on sailing adventures.
10. the old man and the sea
by ernest hemingway
The Old Man and the Sea is a classic novel by Ernest Hemingway, first published in 1952. The novel tells the story of an elderly Cuban fisherman who battles a giant marlin fish for three days and nights in the Gulf Stream. before finally killing him. he opposes both his own past, represented by his younger brother, and the present, in the form of the marlin.
It’s a simple (and relatively short) story, but with a closer look, you can see why this book won Hemingway the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1953.
11. moby dick
by herman melville
one of our favorite sailing novels is also a classic by anyone’s standards. moby-dick tells the story of a sailor’s quest to hunt down a giant white whale.
The book captures the essence of life on the open sea and, in turn, captures who sailors are as people, both adventurous and determined. this is one of the great sailing stories that should be on your must-read list.
12. master and commander
patrick o’brian’s aubrey-maturin series
Master and Commander is the first book in the Aubrey-Maturin series, a series of historical fiction novels set during the Napoleonic Wars. The book follows the life of Captain Jack Aubrey, a British naval officer, and his friend Dr. Stephen Maturin, a ship’s surgeon.
See Also: Theodore Boone – Book Series In Order
the aubrey-maturin series offers a glimpse into the life of a naval officer during the age of sail. It’s a story of friendship and adventure, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who reads it.
You can also watch the movie of the same name, which is on our list of the 12 best browsing movies.
13. pi’s life
by yann martel
the life of pi is a novel by yann martel that tells the story of a boy who is stranded in a lifeboat with a tiger in the pacific ocean.
The story follows Pi as he tries to survive for 227 days in the lifeboat, using his wits and animal instincts to stay alive. It’s an intense and harrowing story, but one that ultimately speaks to the human spirit and the will to survive.
14. the journey of the dawn Treader
by c.s. louis
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is the fifth novel by c.s. Lewis in the Chronicles of Narnia series that tells the story of King Caspian’s journey to find the seven lost lords of Narnia. The book follows the voyage of the Dawn Treader, a ship captained by the Caspian King.
Lewis’ ability to create interesting characters and settings makes this book a joy to read. if you are looking for a story with a fun sailing adventure, this is a good book to get lost in!
books about sailing around the world
These books are true stories about sailors who sailed around the world. From the first solo round-the-world trip to sailing around the world in a 12-foot boat, these books are packed with some of the greatest sailing stories of all time!
15. sailing alone around the world
by joshua slocum
sailing alone around the world is a sailing classic by joshua slocum. The memoir recounts Slocum’s journey as the first person to sail alone around the world.
This book follows Captain Slocum’s three-year, 46,000-mile journey beginning in 1895 and facing a host of challenges, including dangerous coral reefs, pirates, and even Indians. This book is the original sailing adventure novel based on true events!
16. maiden voyage
by tania aebi
the maiden voyage is an autobiography that tells the story of an 18-year-old girl whose father gives her the choice between going to college and going around the world alone in a 26-foot sailboat.
The book chronicles her extraordinary journey around the world and provides a story of inner strength and determination that is sure to inspire anyone who reads it.
17. the gypsy moth goes around the world
by francisco chichester
The Gypsy Moth Goes Around the World is a book about the author’s solo circumnavigation in 1966 in his 53-foot ketch across Cape Horn. at the time, she was one of only nine ships to circle the world on this route, setting a new speed record on her 226-day voyage.
This book is the sailing story of a true sailor and provides all the details of what it was like to sail alone on this voyage, from the constant sail changes to the weather and daily activities. the fact that the author was 65 years old on the journey makes the feat all the more impressive.
18. dove
by robin lee graham
dove is a sailing autobiography by robin lee graham that tells how at the age of 16 he began a sailing exhibition around the world in 1965. during this trip on a 24-foot sloop, he became the youngest person to give solo around the world.
The book recounts his 33,000-mile journey, from exploring beautiful tropical islands to finding his wife.
19. 500 days: around the world on a 12-foot yacht
by serge testa
follows head as he sets the world record for the smallest ship to circumnavigate. During his 500 days sailing on an incredibly small yacht built by the author himself, he tells his sailing stories with humor.
There is no doubt that Testa is a very self-reliant and determined sailor, and might even recommend that you start your sailing journey on a smaller sailboat!
20. the long road
by bernard moitessier
The Long Road is a book by Bernard Moitessier that tells the story of his participation in 1969 in the first Golden Globe race. This race is a non-stop circumnavigation during which Moitessier sails around three capes, including Cape Horn. He follows the author and the many challenges he faces, including terrible weather, loneliness, fatigue, and maintenance issues.
the long road exploits the struggles of solo sailing passages and showcases the rewards behind such a challenging feat.
best navigation books for beginners
If you’re new to sailing or living on a boat, you may be wondering where to start. These books will teach you how to sail, maintain a sailboat, and live on a sailboat. We’ve also listed some great guides to sailing a sailboat, including which boat to buy and how to outfit it.
These are some of the best books for beginning boaters and life aboard.
21. navigation made easy
by the American Sailing Association
Sailing Made Easy is a book by the American Sailing Association that offers a complete guide to sailing for beginners. The book covers everything from navigation basics to more advanced topics, and includes many helpful illustrations and photos.
sailing made easy is the guide to sailing school with the american sailing association and its asa1 course. It’s an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn to sail!
22. Don Casey’s Complete Illustrated Sailboat Maintenance Manual
by don casey
Don Casey’s Complete Illustrated Sailboat Maintenance Manual is the definitive guide to sailboat maintenance. Casey is considered the go-to expert for answers on repair and maintenance in the sailboat community.
With six comprehensive sections on sailboat maintenance, this book includes everything from how to repair sails and other sailboat fabrics, to how to repair fiberglass. Casey includes many helpful illustrations and photos throughout the process to make each step of the project easier to understand.
Don Casey’s Complete Illustrated Sailboat Maintenance Manual is an essential resource for anyone who owns or plans to own a sailboat. Not only will it help you keep your boat in top condition, it will also save you money in the long run.
23. the ship’s galley cookbook
by carolyn shearlock & jan irons
The Ship’s Kitchen Cookbook is a cookbook written specifically for sailors who cook in a sailboat kitchen.
The author, Carolyn, is well known in the cruise community for her blog The Boat Galley, and is considered an authority on shipboard cooking.
The book includes more than 800 recipes for all kinds of meals, snacks and desserts, and provides instructions on how to prepare them while sailing. The authors have also included helpful tips on food storage and preparation, and tips on how to make things like yogurt and bread on board.
The Ship’s Kitchen Cookbook is an essential resource for anyone who loves to sail and wants to enjoy a delicious meal while doing so. It also makes a great gift for any sailor in your life!
24. the essentials of living on board a ship
by mark nicholas
This book is packed with realistic and useful information for anyone who wants to learn how to live on a boat. Nicholas covers everything from the basics of life on board to more advanced topics like insurance and marinas. also delves into boat buying and budgeting.
This is truly an excellent resource for a new boat owner who is aiming to live on board.
25. get real, go away
See Also: Barack and Michelle Obama praised Dr. Seuss during presidency
how to become a modern sea gypsy and sail forever by rick page
Rick Page’s book, Get Real, Get Gone, is about how to escape the rat race by sailing a boat, and you don’t have to be a millionaire to do it.
The page provides helpful tips, from choosing the right boat and preparing to set sail to coping with harsh weather conditions and staying safe at sea.
rick page’s philosophy is to keep things simple so you can get out on the water as soon as possible. the author focuses on simplicity on board, frugal sailing and sustainable travel. this book is an amazing resource for anyone looking to realize their dream of sailing off into the sunset.
26. capable cruiser
by lin & larry pardey
this book is an updated extension of pardeys book “the self-sufficient sailor”. .
The authors have over 50 years of combined cruising experience and are something of a legend in the cruising community. his motto of “go small, go now” has gotten many boaters out on the water sooner with a simple setup that allows them to live out their cruising dreams.
27. boat owner’s manual of mechanics and electricity
by nigel calder
The Boat Owner’s Manual of Mechanical and Electrical is a book that covers in detail the mechanical and electrical systems of a boat.
The author, Nigel Calder, has included information on everything from maintaining your diesel engine, wiring your boat, maintaining your winches, troubleshooting your batteries, and much more.
nigel is so good at responding to your mechanical and electrical problems that we would just say “let’s see what nigel has to say” every time we had a problem with our sailboat.
This book is an essential resource for boat owners and boaters.
28. the annapolis book of seamanship
by john rousmaniere
the annapolis nautical book is considered the bible of navigation. is a comprehensive guide covering topics such as sailing basics, sail trim, sailing, weather, boat maintenance, safety, anchoring, and more.
This guide is updated regularly and is an essential book to have on board your sailboat.
best blue water navigation guides
If sailing blue waters is your goal, these three books are some of the most acclaimed and respected resources available today. they help you get started with which sailboat to buy, the equipment you need, route and passage planning, and more. don’t leave the coast without them!
29. world cruise routes
by jimmy cornell
This book is the most complete guide to shipping routes around the world. Often referred to as the bible of blue water cruising, it includes detailed information on weather conditions and currents around the world and the best times to cruise. You’ll even find details on where to provision, perform repair work, and other essential information.
world cruising routes is a must-have resource for any boater interested in blue water cruising.
30. the traveler’s handbook: the essential guide to navigating blue waters
by beth leonard
The Traveler’s Handbook is a book that covers everything you need to know about long-distance cruising. From buying the right blue water boat to weather forecasting, voyage planning, safety and emergency preparedness, and more, this book presents a guide to cruising on a shoestring budget or a larger allowance.
The author, Beth Leonard, has sailed around the world and provides detailed information on all the topics and skills needed to successfully complete a long voyage on a sailboat.
31. like sailing around the world
by hal roth
hal roth has sailed for more than 50 years and has sailed more than 200,000 nautical miles. In his book, he shares his vast knowledge of sailing and very detailed information on bluewater sailboats, voyage planning, small boat handling and more.
also covers topics such as:
- how to buy a boat
- how to learn sailing skills
- what you need to sail around the world safely
If you plan to go around the world or sail around a part of the world, this is a great navigation blook to have at your disposal.
best cruise sailing books
These books are written by live-aboard cruisers and contain many stories of sailing adventures to inspire your own life-aboard adventure! If you’re looking for an accurate and sometimes humorous description of what it’s like to live on a sailboat, these books are a great place to start.
32. a candle of two idiots
over 100 lessons and laughs from a non-sailor who gave up the rat race, took the helm and sailed to a new life in the caribbean by renee petrillo
A Sail of Two Idiots is a book written by Renee Petrillo that tells the story of her journey with her husband to go from zero experience as sailors to living on a ship in the Caribbean.
renee shares her sailing adventures and lessons learned with humor, intelligence and insight. his book will make you laugh, shudder and want to set sail on your own adventure. This book is recommended for beginner sailors or anyone who aspires to sail.
33. a shame of mangoes
a caribbean interlude by ann vanderhoof
Ann Vanderhoof’s book, Ashamed of Mangoes, is a delightful account of her time living on a ship in the Caribbean.
vanderhoof offers readers a charming and humorous look at the people, culture and food of the Caribbean. with stories that focus on their adjustments to life on a sailboat, intertwined with recipes and cooking tips using local ingredients on the islands.
an embarrassment of mangoes is a must read for foodies who dream of living the cruise ship lifestyle!
34. escape from the ordinary
by julie bradley
Julie Bradley’s book, Escape from the Ordinary, tells the story of her and her husband’s decision to leave their lives in the United States. back and sail around the world.
bradley gives readers an inspiring and honest look at the ups and downs of living a life of adventure while traveling to exotic locations around the world.
35. dive in: a woman’s search for a less ordinary life
by liesbet collaert
If you’re looking for an honest and inspiring account of one woman’s journey to find a less ordinary life aboard a sailboat, you need to read Dive In.
collaert offers readers a compelling and candid insight into the challenges and rewards of living a cruising lifestyle. From working remotely on a sailboat to the challenges of a relationship on a ship: liesbet covers everything from a realistic perspective.
If you’re thinking of plunging into the world of sailboat life, plunge will give you an accurate account of the ups and downs of the lifestyle.
the best books on navigation
The best books for sailors give readers an inspiring and honest look at the challenges and rewards of a life of adventure.
Whether you want an inspiring account of one woman’s journey around the world or a humorous look at going off the grid and living aboard a sailboat in the Caribbean, these books will give you the inspiration you need to take the plunge. .
Do you want to find more articles to inspire you in navigation?
Check out our lists of movies, quotes, music and more on boating that inspire this lifestyle.
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