The Elements of Seamanship

by Roger C. Taylor

Since it was first published, more than 25 years ago, The Elements of Seamanship by Roger C. Taylor, has been read and re-read by thousands of beginner and experienced boaters alike. Now it can be read again in this new updated and expanded edition from Flat Hammock Press. The book is a no-nonsense, straightforward and witty explanation of the practical sea sense gained by the author in his more than 70 years at sea. The 128-page paperback contains five simple chapters, a series of appendixes, a bibliography and an index. This new Third Edition includes the appendix "Keeping a Civil Tongue at Sea" which was in the original hardcover edition. "The Elements of Seamanshiphas always been my favorite seamanship book," says editor Bob McKenna. "It is the essential nautical reference. We asked Roger for the rights to republish it and he agreed to update it for us."

112 pages, Paperback

First published February 28, 1983

Reviews

[Nikola Š · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is a basic book, but not a book for beginners. There is hardly any hand-holding about the basic terms and manoeuvres - it's written for someone who has spent a fair amount of time on a ship. But it concerns some really important basics which one might overlook among all the complicated equipment and operations. And it is written in such a delightful tone. I was hooked right from the table of contents:

Chapter 1: Keeping the Water Out
Chapter 2: Keeping From Hitting Anything
Chapter 3: Keeping Her Going
Chapter 4: Keeping Her Where You Want Her
Chapter 5: Keeping Your Reputation
Appendix A: Keeping a Civil Tongue at Sea

[Rich Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Concise, eloquent, wise, and gently humorous discussion of all we must keep in mind to stay safe and in control of our vessel at sea.

The second edition shown in the cover photo omits material from the original - the nautical lexicon, I believe, and possibly other appendices. If you can, find a used copy of the first edition rather than the second.