Reference Library

[Wind459]

Just wondering if there is a book out there you guys would suggest having available for references. I've seen this one but not sure if its worth the cost.

https://www.amazon.com/Boatowners-Me...ain+a+sailboat

[FSMike]

Anything by Nigel Calder is good to have on board.

[CaptFrankM]

That's not a bad book to have, but you really need to provide more info. Don Casey has several books that are good references for dealing with boat systems. This Old Boat is great for upgrading an older boat. Carolyn Shearlock's Boat Galley is an excellent reference for cooking aboard. Dave Burch has a par of good books on RADAR and weather. Adlard Cole and Larry Pardey can both provide detailed info on heavy weather sailing. That leaves out the Bible's - Chapman's and Dutton's.

[Pete7]

Jimmy Cornells world sailing routes is an interesting read to while away the hours, probably read it more often than Calders book. That and a good book on pressure cooking recipes.

Pete

[tkeithlu]

Bowditch can be downloaded on line, because the Department of Defense uses it. I have a copy on this laptop. I've been rather disappointed with the most recent Chapman's - full of editing errors, and more comic book than reference.

[Suijin]

Wind that book is good, but it's "broad but shallow" because it is so comprehensive. I don't think there is a better book out there in the category, but supplement it with more in-depth books on particularly vital systems, like engine and electric. And yes, it is worth the money.

I will say, once you read that book in it's entirety (which you will over time if you have an older boat) you'll know a lot, and more importantly probably know better what you don't know.

[UNCIVILIZED]

You'd be best served by (regularly) visiting the sailor's book shop in any big seafaring town. Or if not regularly, then plan on spending several hours in one on your next vacation or business trip to such a locale. It'll let you peruse dozens of books, & get a feel for which of them will be helpful for you now, & perhaps some that'll be useful later on, once your experience & knowledge level is greater. It's probably a better way to go about it than by buying books based on their Amazon reviews, as you can compare half a dozen books on the same subject to one another, & hone in on the ones that resonate with you. Besides, it's always fun to visit such shops. Take notes!