The Annapolis Book of Seamanship, 3rd Edition Revised

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As a sailor on every type of floating scrap of wood, fiberglass, steel and aluminum you can think of, I have sailed thousands and thousands of miles. I continually turn to this book as a source of reference and it is never out of close contact.

Even now, as I have no boat but race quite often, I pick up the book because I have questions or ideas about something. It is a wonderful source and the most complete reference I have ever seen.

This book would be especially useful to beginning sailors, but NOTHING can teach you like getting on the water. Use this book to be prepared, but get out there!

I have recommended this book even to some power boaters whom I thought I might convert. They have all enjoyed it and felt it was worth the money.

If you are on the fence, just trust me and buy the book. You will not be disappointed. Worst case scenario is that you put it on your coffee table for your guests to enjoy!

I reviewed "Annapolis" for Good Old Boat magazine. The review, and an excerpt from the book is in the July/August issue. The book stands as the yardstick by which other sailing references must be judged. For this new edition, Rousmaniere did an excellent job of gender neutralizing the language without any awkwardness. He talks about "forehandedness", a state of being prepared for whatever the sea throws at one. This book is the best written resource to help one obtain that state. The book will be instantly accessible to the beginner. It will remain a good reference for the most experienced sea dog. Rousmaniere uses a lot of little tricks to help the reader retain the information in the book. While the book is chock full of facts, his love for sailing and the romance of the sea shows through as well. If you want to improve your sailing skills and knowledge, buy this book!

John Rousmaniere has created a comprehensive text on the sport of sailing and seamanship which is enjoyable to read and very authoritative. By their nature, sailors have strongly held opinions on most subjects, but virtually every sailor I know of who has read John's book holds it in very high regard. The illustrations are clear and not too busy to get in the way of showing the frequently complicated topics which are inherent in the sport. I also find that Seamanship is not just a repeat of tired old sailing methods of 30 years ago, but rather integrates the classic techniques (storm tactics, navigation) with the modern (Crew Overboard Recovery, modern anchors and electronics).

I highly recommend this book, and encourage anyone to buy it if they want to improve their sailing skills.

There are few books as excellent in explaining both basic sailing skills and advanced procedures as the Annapolis Book of Seamanship. From boat handling, equipment, and terminology to weather and emergencies, this book covers all the fundamentals of sailing in clear, easy to grasp terms. Novices will find value in that the book assumes no prior knowledge of sailing, while old salts will appreciate the book's encyclopedia-like thoroughness.

If you only have one book in your sailing library, I recommend this be the one.

This is simply the best book on sailing you can buy. The illustrations are fabulous and the writing is clear and to the point. Buy it if you don't have it. Better yet, buy two copies and give one someone starting out in sailing. If this is the only sailing book on your bookshelf, you have choosen wisely. Perfect for the beginner and essential for all sailors.

John Rousmaniere once again sets the standard for clear, concise descriptions of a frequently complicated topic: sailing and seamanship. Technically perfect (at least I can't complain about anything), and superbly illustrated, Annapolis covers all critical topics: rigging, heavy weather, navigation, anchoring, etc. This newest version expands are several areas, and is brought up to date with recent safety at sea findings and marine trends. Highly recommended for any sailor's library (and cruising powerboaters will find helpful information as well).

This updated (1999) version of The Annapolis Book of Seamanship is a wonderful volume for both the new and more experienced sailor. With clear, lucid text and wonderful illustrations, Mr. Rousmaniere and Mr. Smith have created a truly useful guide. In particular, I found the section dealing with the "physics" of the boat to be very enlightening. I also was pleased with the strong emphasis on safety throughout the book. All around, one of the best books available on the topic, and highly recommended.

This book is comprehensive and well-written. It is appropriate for the beginning as well as the advanced sailor

Everyone who has anything positive about this book is correct.

The reason for three stars is the discussion of GPS is slightly shorter than the discussion of Loran and Radio Direction Finding; e.g. one page to each. There is no acknowledgment of the existence of a thing called the Internet.

The value of this book lies in things that don't change much - Ground tackle, Rigging, Knots, Dead Reckoning.

At one point this was the go-to book, but the growing lag in coverage of technology that has changed in the years since 1998 includes subjects that are now core to offshore sailing.

I purchased this book feeling that Chapman's was the bible of boating. I expected the Annapolis Book of Seamanship to be a sail boat owners version of the same, covering much of the same ground with a slant toward the sailor. I now know that this is only half true! John Rousmaniere, who I have since had the honor of meeting, presents a no nonsense look at sailing and seamanship. He takes this sailing business very seriously and doesn't fudge on anything. His own sailing experience has taught him that sailing can be dangerous and that the sea or any large body of water is to be dealt with respectfully, safely and with a base of knowledge and preparedness. John knows his stuff and is unquestionably one of the country's most knowledgeable seamen. His words are like gold to every sailor.

For me, a recreational sailor of over twenty years, this book has been like the bible. I've used it for voyage preparation, to teach new sailors and, when I wrote my sailing mystery novel, Inner Passages, this book was my first and primary resource!

Sometimes, late at night, nostalgic for the sensation of a sailboat deck underfoot once more, I pull it off the shelf and just dip inside. It evokes memories, reminds me of trips gone by, and I cam almost smell the sea air. This latest edition, replete with fine illustrations, should be a primary addition to any sailor's library.

THE ANNAPOLIS BOOK OF SEAMANSHIP by John Rousmaniere is the ur-text on sailing used by virtually every sailing school as its primary educational source. Now in its third edition, this eminently readable and well illustrated book is encyclopedic in its scope, crammed full of practical information about sailing vessels, the mechanics of sailing them, and the traditions of sailing. It's a measure of the excellence of THE ANNAPOLIS BOOK OF SEAMANSHIP how familiarly Rousmaniere presents this largely alien topic with its many very specialized terms of art.

Rousmaniere wisely eschews most of the romance of sailing in favor of much more important considerations, such as boat care, boat handling, and especially safety at sea. Sailing may be enjoyable and it may be challenging, but it is also a dangerous avocation by its very nature, and the author never lets "salty talk" befog that issue. This is NOT a quick reference book for those who want to hoist the jolly roger and give no quarter while tied to the dock; this is a bible for serious SAILORS, whether on the local lake, Puget Sound or the South China Sea

While it can't give you the hands-on experience that being before the mast confers, THE ANNAPOLIS BOOK OF SEAMANSHIP will give you the theory and information you need to make the most of that experience.

I have a copy of the "Annapolis Book of Seamanship," 3rd edition dated 1999. I have the highest regard for John Rousmaniere and the great contribution this book makes to sailing. There is information in this book that is hard to find. The text is extremely well written, useful, and informative. However, as I write this review in 2005, I suspect most of us would find some of the photos have a dated look and feel. If you compare the third edition of "Annapolis" to the current edition of "Chapman's", you will see that "Annapolis" looks dated. The increased use of color and the increased use of higher resolution photos would help better illustrate the knowledge that the author is trying to communicate. Some updates of the text would be of value, for example as related to electronics. Despite the areas for updating in the third edition, "Annapolis" is well worth the price for any sailor's library.

I am not yet a sailor, I am just exploring the area for the first time. This book is an incredible reference, teaching more than just the basics. There is alot of detail here, but it's written and illustrated in a way that eliminates any intimidation you might encounter in such tricky concepts as leeway, tacking and safety.

Experienced or not, do not hesitate to purchase this tremendous resource!

When I started sailing my 27 foot sloop, I knew very little about sailing. I bought this book and used it to teach myself to sail. Now years later I still refer to it from time to time. I definitely think this is one of several books that all sailors should have on their bookshelves. I keep The Annapolis Book of Seamanship handy on my boat at all times.

Unlike some reference books that I have seen, the Annapolis Book of Seamanship is clearly written and understandable for this novice.

This book could be considered the bible on sailing. It is all here. Every aspect of a boat under sail is clearly presented.

Have you forgotten some of the terminology or manovers you learned in a sailing course last year? Are you an experienced sailor but would like more detailed information on a subject?This book has all the answers to the questions many novice sailors have; from parts of the boat, commands, moanovering in a harbour to sailor terminology. Themes also go into great detail on the subject matter accompanied with excellent illustrations to re-enforce your learning of a subject. It doesn't matter if your are a seasoned salt or new to the world of cruising. It belongs on every sailors book shelf.

This book has some pretty good info and is quite comprehensive and well laid out. If you're going to buy 1 book, let it be this one. That's if you ever get around to reading it (it being so comprehensive and all) it's almost easier to go out sailing than trawl through it's many pages! But a worthwhile reference.

Simply--A fantastic reference for any sailor in US waters. Covers all the important topics in enough detail, but simply enough not confuse.

If you only could have one book from which to learn about sailing and how to sail - this would be it

This book isnt just eductational but really enjoyable if you like sailing and are interested in learning more about it. I always find myself distracted with other interesting topics. It is a book for any sailor to keep out on their coffee table. We were introduced to sailing from my aunt. She let me borrow their copy of this book. When they purchased a different boat we finally realized it was time to get one for ourselves. We have found it to be an invaluable reference tool, but not so "encyclopediac" that you can't enjoy reading on. In fact, when I refer to it.

A nice updated edition from the prior one I had. General information for the novice and experienced sailor. Ready for another update based on outdated technology and navigational information but a great read.

I am a relatively new sailor, so I don't have a lot of experience in much more than reference books and study at this point. But, from my vantage point I can attest that this book is one of the best written and illustrated book on the market. I believe it contains just about every aspect of the art of sailing. Aside from Sailing Fundamentals, by Gary Jobson, the Annapolis Book of Seamanship is a absolute must for any sailors library.

A whole lot of info. I agree, that it could use an Addendum of modern navigation.

Very informative, well organized and simple to understand for the inexperienced sailor as well as those who have a basic understanding of sailing. Very helpful.

There's nothing that needs to be said other than if you want to know it about sailing... then it's in this book... Anyone who sails should have this onboard.

This is by far the most complete text of its type. A must-have for any sailor...or wannabe sailor. It comes complete with understandable drawings, easy-to-read text, comprehensive coverage and it is very well organized. This is the best book of its genre that I've found.

This is a comprehensive text for beginners and experienced sailors. I am an ASA instructor, and always recommend or provide "The Annapolis Book" along with Chapman's Piloting for students. Although ten years since the last revision, it is still sufficiently up to date.

This book is a great reference for anyone interested in sailing. If you're looking for a book that covers both power boating as well as sailing, Chapman's might be a better choice. However, on the topic of sailing, I prefer Annapolis over Chapman's.

If you are looking at this book, it is probably because it has been referred to you. This is a must have for anyone wanting to know about sailing - it covers it all.

We were introduced to sailing from friends. They let us borrow their 2nd addition copy of this book. When they purchased a different boat we finally realized it was time to get one for ourselves. We have found it to be an invaluable reference tool, but not so "encyclopediac" that you can't enjoy reading on. In fact, when I refer to it, I always find myself distracted with other interesting topics. It is a book for any sailor to keep out on their coffee table.

I highly recommend this book for any aspect of sailing knowledge.

My brother found a first edition of this book in someone's trash, and grabbed it for me, as he knew I was a sailor and thought it might be useful or important. I had learned to sail from "Sailing for Dummies"; this, however, is (or should be) the bible for learning to sail. It is the only sailing book I've read that has described how to fly a spinnaker in a useful manner.

Reading this book will shorten any sailor's learning curve. It covers all aspects of the sport. John Rousmanierehas compiled an amazing reference/textbook that is interesting, informative and invaluable. I highly recommend this book to sailors at all levels of proficiency. Thank you Mr. Rousmaniere for this wonderful resource.

Great book for acquiring basic and intermediate seamanship knowledge. Also very useful as reference for refreshing your knowledge.

I just finished a ton of sailing classes,starting w/the Laser & moving on to bigger and better, but NOT WITHOUT the help of this book!!YOU wanna SAIL?FOR REAL?BUY IT!READ IT!LEARN IT!LIVE IT!You can't lose...or drowned!