The Polar Seal Library

There are a few books that have helped us getting our sailing career started and throughout our three years of voyaging. We have had more books than this (a lot more) but these are the ones I find myself picking up the most.

If you have an interest in any of these book you can click the photo of the book and it will take you to the amazon page through our affiliate link. When you purchase through an affiliate link, we earn a small commission at no extra cost for you. It is a free way to support our content creation! 

The Voyager Handbook

Beth Leonard

This is the bible for new cruisers starting out. I learned so much from this book.  Everything from how to pick a boat, to anchoring and gear to weather.  Its becoming a little outdated but its still an essential book and I would put it on the top of my list. 

The Boatowners Mechancial and Electrical Manual

Nigel Calder

If the voyager Handbook is the bible for cruisers the boat owners mechanical and electrical manual is the bible to all things mechanical.   Nigel has been in the boating industry all his life and has a wealth of knowledge which he shares in this book. It covers a lot of electrical theory and issues and well as engines, toilets and everything in between.

Sailboat Maintenance Manual

Don Casey

While I love Nigel Calders books I find that they can be a bit complex.  Don Caseys books are a bit more simplistic with a few more drawings to help you along.  Plus, its always good to have a second opinion when working on stuff.  I would have both on board any boat i own.

RYA Sail Trim Handbook

Rob Gibson (RYA)

I find this simple and basic book a good tutorial to sail trimming in all different conditions. Its easy to ready and will get any new sailor over some of the hardest learning humps. If i have not sailing on a particular point of sail for awhile I find myself going back to this book and refreshing from time to time.

Maneuvering at Close Quarters Under Power

Bill Johnson

This book is something I stumbled upon on amazon.  It’s a really cool guide on how to maneuver your sailboat in all kinds of different situations.  When your first learning it’s a great reference guide or if you find yourself in an unfamiliar situation, have a look and use it during your departure or arrival briefing to a harbor or marina.

Skipper Medical Emergency Handbook

Adlard Coles

For those coastal or blue water sailing this is a good visual guide to many of the medical situations which one might encounter.  It is not all inclusive but its close.  I have read through it a few times and I would be confident in using it in case the worst were to happen.

Storm Tactics

Lin Pardey

I have a few different Storm books but I find this one to be the best.  Very clear and concise.

Care and feeding of sailing crew

Lin and Larry Pardey

Lin and Larry have been sailing a few long time.  Sophie loves listening to Lin’s podcast and this book has a lot of good tips and tricks to make life on board a little bit better. 

Celestial Navigation a complete home study course

David Burch

I am still working on my celestial skills but this book has helped me a lot along the way.  While celestial is not a requirement for sailing I do believe it’s a good skill to have.  This book will help you through it.

Splicing Modern Ropes

Jan-willem polman

I want to stress that when starting out sailing and cruising one must pick their battles.  There is so much to learn that you cant learn it all.  Splicing is one of those battles best left for the end.  However, when you do decide its time I really recommend this book.  It has great photos and good advice along the way.