It's time to turn that dream into a reality and set sail on the adventure of a lifetime. And you don't have to face this daunting task alone – renowned boat designer Roger Marshall is here to guide you every step of the way.
In Marshall's remarkable book, you will uncover the secrets to selecting the sailboat that perfectly suits your unique sailing lifestyle. With his expert guidance, you will develop a profound understanding of the myriad factors that contribute to a boat's performance, comfort, and seaworthiness. You will learn how to navigate through the sea of choices and make informed decisions that align with your personal requirements and preferences.
Accompany Marshall on an incredible journey as he conceives and develops five prototype sailboats, each with its own distinct design objectives: the Weekender, Cruiser, Voyager, Single-Hander, and Cruiser/Racer. Through over 200 illuminating illustrations, Marshall takes you aboard these vessels, revealing the meticulous choices and compromises inherent in boat design and their profound impact on performance.
Discover the features that define a remarkable cruising sailboat, from the fundamental considerations such as inshore or offshore sailing, weekend trips or extended voyages, occasional racing or non-racing, to the intricate aspects of hull shape and sail plan. You will gain a solid comprehension of your future sailboat: what it can do, what its limitations are, and why. This comprehensive resource covers everything from sea kindliness, performance, and handling characteristics of different rigs, to the comfort experienced during passages or weekend getaways – all presented in clear and accessible language.
Beyond the fundamentals, you will acquire the expertise to assess any sailboat, whether new or used. Unveil the secrets of selecting the perfect keel shape for your sailing area and learn to discern the subtle signs of comfort. Delve into the art of creating a functional and inviting cockpit, and understand when a pilothouse becomes an essential feature. Furthermore, you will discover the true cost of owning a boat, empowering you to estimate expenses accurately and avoid any surprises. Learn why certain boats excel in a wide range of conditions, while others may prioritize different aspects of sailing.
But that's not all – this invaluable resource goes beyond the theoretical aspects of boat selection. Marshall shares his wisdom on predicting the maintenance costs of your dream boat, ensuring you are fully prepared for the dedication it entails. Additionally, you will find Marshall's comprehensive 12-page comparison table, featuring production sailboats from around the world. This treasure trove of information encompasses details such as length, beam, draft, displacement, ballast, sail area, fuel and water capacities, performance ratios, capsize and comfort ratios, and more – meticulously compiled for convenient and revealing comparisons.
With Marshall's guidance and expertise, you will board your very own "ideal" vessel, confident in your knowledge of every nook and cranny, ready to embark on countless years of pure sailing pleasure. Prepare to set sail, for your dream of cruising in your own boat is about to come true. The horizon awaits – let the adventure begin!