Top 16 Sailing Books Every Sea Lover Should Read
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Whether you’re an experienced sailor, a sea enthusiast, or a dreamer who loves good stories, sailing books offer endless inspiration and knowledge. In them, you’ll find adventure, wisdom, humor, and a reminder that the sea is always bigger, deeper, and more unpredictable than we imagine. Grab a book, settle into a comfortable chair or on deck-and sail on the wings of words toward new horizons.
The most viral sailing books-whether you read them for inspiration on deck or to improve your skills-are now highly sought after by both beginners and experienced sailors. Here are a few titles that have recently attracted the most attention and recommendations.
Timeless Sailing Classics That Shaped the Genre
Joshua Slocum: "Sailing Alone Around the World "
This 1899 book is considered a cornerstone of maritime literature. Joshua Slocum was the first person to sail solo around the world, and his story aboard the small boat "Spray" still inspires sailors and dreamers today. Slocum writes simply but vividly, describing daily challenges, storms, and moments of complete silence and peace at sea. His book is not just a travelogue, but an ode to human perseverance and curiosity.
Richard Henry Dana Jr.: "Two Years Before the Mast"
Although not about classic sailing, but rather a 19th-century merchant ship, this book offers a unique look at the life of a sailor. As a law student, Dana exchanged the classroom for a ship’s deck for two years, and his observations on daily life, hardships, and the beauty of sea travel remain relevant today.
Modern Sailing Adventures and Personal Stories Testimonies
Bernard Moitessier: "The Long Way"
French sailor Bernard Moitessier participated in the first solo nonstop round-the-world race, the 1968 Golden Globe Race. Instead of finishing the race and becoming a celebrated winner, Moitessier decided to keep sailing toward the Pacific, guided by inner peace and a desire to escape fame. His book is an introspective, philosophical, and deeply emotional true gem for those who seek more than competition in sailing.
Sanjin Debelić: "20 Years of Windsurfing"
The first Croatian book on windsurfing, this author’s monograph documents the development of windsurfing in Croatia through 200 photographs and personal stories. The book quickly went viral among fans of the sport, standing out for its unique blend of historical overview and personal perspective on the windsurfing scene.
Robin Lee Graham: "Dove"
Robin Lee Graham was only 16 when he began his journey around the world on the small yacht "Dove." Over five years, Graham crossed oceans, faced storms and loneliness, but also found meeting his future wife along the way. "Dove" is a story of growing up, courage, and dreams that come true.
Tania Aebi: "Maiden Voyage"
At 18, Tania Aebi became the youngest woman to sail solo around the world. Her book "Maiden Voyage" is not just a travel diary, but a story of personal growth, overcoming fears, and proof that limits often exist only in our minds. Aebi writes honestly, sometimes humorously, and her story especially inspires young women to follow their dreams.
Ellen MacArthur: "Taking on the World"
British sailor Ellen MacArthur became famous for her solo round-the-world records. In "Taking on the World," she describes her journey from a girl who dreamed of sailing to a world-renowned athlete. Her persistence, discipline, and passion for the sea shine through every page.
Books About Survival and Battling Nature
Steven Callahan: Adrift: "Seventy-six Days Lost at Sea"
This incredible true story tells of Callahan's fight for survival after his boat sank in the Atlantic. He spent 76 days in a small raft, living on fish and rainwater, battling sharks and his thoughts. "Adrift" is a gripping, moving, and inspiring book about endurance and hope.
John Rousmaniere: "Fastnet, Force 10"
In 1979, the famous Fastnet race turned to tragedy when a sudden storm hit the fleet. Participant John Rousmaniere details the events, heroic rescues, and losses. The book is an important lesson about the risks of the sea, but also about human solidarity and courage.
Peter Nichols: "A Voyage for Madmen"
This book follows nine sailors who took part in the first solo nonstop round-the-world race in 1968. Nichols skillfully weaves together their personal stories, motivations, successes, and tragedies, creating an exciting and emotional portrait of the most dangerous race in history.
Practical Guides and Inspiration for Future Sailors
Beth Leonard: "The Voyager’s Handbook"
For those dreaming of long passages, "The Voyager’s Handbook" is essential reading. Beth Leonard covers every aspect of boat preparation, trip planning, navigation, safety, and daily life on board, full of practical advice and real-life examples.
Jimmy Cornell: "World Cruising Routes"
Experienced sailor Jimmy Cornell is the author of numerous guides. "World Cruising Routes" is an encyclopedia of ocean routes with detailed information on weather, ports, and safety- indispensable for anyone planning serious voyages.
Emil Tomašević: "Sailing – Nautical Skills"
This book has become a true hit among local sailors. The author, an experienced regatta sailor, guides readers through basic and advanced sailing techniques in simple language. The book is intended for beginners as well as anyone looking to deepen their knowledge, and its authenticity and practical advice make it essential reading for anyone entering the world of sailing.
Sailing Through Literature and Philosophy
Ernest Hemingway: "The Old Man and the Sea"
Though not a classic sailing book, this novella depicts the struggle between man and the sea through the story of the old fisherman Santiago. Hemingway’s style, symbolism, and emotional depth make this work a must-read for every sea lover.
Jonathan Raban: "Passage to Juneau"
Raban, a British writer and travel author, describes his journey by sailboat from Seattle to Alaska, as well as an inner journey through history, myth, and personal relationships. "Passage to Juneau" is meditative, witty, and deeply thoughtful.
Reading for Kids
"Moomin Sailing"
For the youngest and families, the picture book "Moomin Sailing" brings adventure from a child’s perspective and has become a popular choice for parents who want to introduce their children to the joys of sailing.
Where to Find These Books?
Most of these titles are available in English, but more are being translated into Croatian. Look for them in bookstores, online platforms, or well-stocked libraries. If you’re a member of a sailing club, you’ll often find a rich collection of maritime literature among fellow members.
Read, read, read! Whether you’re an experienced sailor, a sea enthusiast, or a dreamer who loves good stories, sailing books offer endless inspiration and knowledge. In them, you’ll find adventure, wisdom, humor, and a reminder that the sea is always bigger, deeper, and more unpredictable than we imagine. Grab a book, settle into a comfortable chair or on deck-and sail on the wings of words toward new horizons. Because the most sailing books-whether you read them for inspiration on deck or to improve your skills-are now highly sought after by both beginners and experienced sailors.
