The Annapolis Book of Seamanship - 4th Edition by John Rousmaniere (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Completely revised and updated to address changes in technology and safety standards, this new edition is the definitive guide to the art and science of sailing.

"The art of sailing, maneuvering, and preserving a ship or a boat in all positions and under all reasonable circumstances." With the addition of the words, "and some unreasonable circumstances, too," this definition of "seamanship" is as valid today as when the first edition of this book was published in 1983. The aim remains to advise you the sailor on essential gear, skills, and behavior that enhance your pleasure and safety.

This edition of The Annapolis Book of Seamanship is an extensive update. Much of the text is new or revised, and there are many new photos. Throughout, the book stresses the skills and attitudes that comprise what the author calls "The Seamanship Ethos." The first four chapters cover the boat, basic sailing skills, sail trim, and weather, with the first of many "Hands On" sections with their tips.

The topics of health (including seasickness) and on board safety follow, with lessons learned from on-water tests and studies of boating accidents. We look closely at the elements of piloting, navigation, and electronics, including Digital Selective Calling, the US Coast Guard's emergency communication system.

Moving on to the arts of traditional seamanship--anchoring, heavy weather, and emergencies--there is much on modern equipment and skills, again based on experience. The book ends with boat maintenance and the traditions that make sailing the beloved pastime it is. Appendixes include best practices for protecting the marine environment and bringing up children under sail.

Review Quotes

"Since the first edition, The Annapolis Book of Seamanship has been the definitive source for sailing and seamanship. The new 4th edition brings this essential reference up to date with the latest in equipment and sailing technique. There is nothing else like it. Clear and concise, yet complete; The Annapolis Book of Seamanship covers this vast topic with a clarity in organization, language, and presentation to allow thorough understanding, and with enough depth and detail to provide real substance. This is the book I go to, and the one I recommend to sailors of every experience level."--Bill Gladstone "Director, North U, co-author The Instant Handbook of Boat Handling, Navigation, and Seamanship"

"There is no other book as comprehensive or as readable as The Annapolis Book of Seamanship, and this 4th edition sets a new benchmark. Completely revised sections, including safety, heavy weather, electronics, health, emergencies and more, make the book more than 50% new. This is the one book that should be on every sailor's bookshelf."--Chris Caswell "editor of CharterSavvy, author Greatest Sailing Stories Ever Told"

"The Annapolis Book of Seamanship is an essential book for every mariner, and a must-read reference for every seasoned or first-time sailor. I keep one copy at home and another on my boat. Every topic is easy to find, and the graphics and pictures are extremely helpful. John has had a remarkable career as a top small boat sailor, blue water racer, and adventure cruiser and is one of America's most acclaimed experts on safety at sea."--Gary Jobson

About the Author

John Rousmaniere has written more than fifteen technical and historical books. A former contributor to "Yachting" and "Sailing World" magazines, he has lectured at hundreds of Safety-at-Sea seminars sponsored by the US Sailing Association and West Marine. He lives in New York City.