10 Best Sailing Books 2025 in the United States

The 'World Cruising Routes, 9th Edition' is a comprehensive sailing book designed for those interested in long-distance cruising. At 620 pages and weighing 3.45 pounds, it's a substantial resource, which suggests a wealth of information. The content level is advanced, catering mainly to experienced sailors who are planning extensive journeys.

The book’s focus area is global, covering a vast range of cruising routes worldwide, making it particularly valuable for those planning international voyages. It's written by Jimmy Cornell, a respected authority in the sailing community, which adds significant credibility to the content. However, beginners might find the advanced level of detail overwhelming.

The book includes numerous illustrations and diagrams that help in understanding the routes and are beneficial for visual learners. Practical tips and exercises are interspersed throughout, offering actionable advice on navigation and preparation. Although it’s highly recommended by many in the sailing community, some readers might find the abundance of information a bit dense and the flexibound format less durable for rugged use on a boat. Those who are new to sailing or prefer lighter reading material may need to supplement this book with more beginner-friendly resources.

Sailing America is a hardcover book published by Rizzoli, spanning 308 pages and measuring 11.3 x 1.5 x 14.3 inches, with a weight of 7.05 pounds. It ranks among the top 100 best sellers in books, indicating its popularity and recognition within the category. Written in English, it provides an in-depth look at the rich history and culture of sailing in America.

The book is known for its stunning illustrations and high-quality photographs, which are a highlight for visual learners and enthusiasts who appreciate the aesthetic aspects of sailing. However, the book's large size and weight make it less portable and better suited as a coffee table book or a home reference rather than a guide to carry on trips.

'Sailing America' may not be the ideal choice for those seeking step-by-step practical sailing tips and exercises, as it primarily focuses on the broader cultural and historical aspects of sailing. The author’s expertise is evident in the detailed and well-researched content, making it a reliable source for learning about the heritage and significance of sailing in America. While practical sailing tips might be limited, the book offers immense value through its rich storytelling and visual presentation, making it a great addition for avid sailors, maritime history buffs, and anyone with a keen interest in the sailing lifestyle.

The 'Chapman Piloting & Seamanship 69th Edition' is a comprehensive guide often regarded as the authoritative reference for boating enthusiasts. This hefty book, weighing 5.5 pounds and spanning 920 pages, is packed with detailed information suitable for both beginners and seasoned sailors. The content level is extensive, covering a wide array of topics from basic boating techniques to advanced seamanship, navigation, and safety protocols.

Its focus area includes practical guidance on piloting and seamanship, making it valuable for anyone looking to enhance their boating skills or knowledge. The authors are highly experienced, lending credibility and depth to the material covered. Rich with illustrations and diagrams, the book helps readers visualize concepts, which is especially beneficial for understanding complex navigational techniques and boat handling maneuvers.

Practical tips and exercises are scattered throughout, providing hands-on advice that can be directly applied on the water. However, due to its depth and size, some readers might find it overwhelming if they are looking for a quick reference or simpler guide. Additionally, its large dimensions make it less portable, which can be a drawback for those who want to carry it on their boat for quick consultations. These minor drawbacks do not overshadow the book's value and reliability in the sailing community, as evidenced by its longstanding reputation as a best-seller.