Self Sufficient Sailor, Completely Revised and Expanded

by Lin Pardey, Larry Pardey

This book is just what the title says. It is the distillation of what the Lin and Larry learned during more than 47 years of sailing together, years during which they covered more than 200,0000 miles on board their two cutters, Seraffyn and Taleisin, and on scores of other boats they have delivered or raced. Lin and Larry tell how they have sailed in comfort and safety without large cash outlay- on a pay-as-you-earn-as-you-go plan and by simplifying. The first two editions of this invaluable text have seen more than 60,000 copies reach people who dream of setting sail, be it for a weekend voyage across to an offshore island, or for a world circumnavigation. Lin continues voyaging now she is well into her seventh decade of life. Armed with what she is learning as she explores the islands and far corners of the Tasman Sea, she has updated and revised the information found in the original edition plus added several new chapters. Amidst the new material is an extensive look at the lessons learned as she and Larry safely negotiated the stormy waters around Cape Horn. This is the book that could help you cut the ties that bind you to shore.

332 pages, Hardcover

Published November 1, 2019

About the author

Lin Pardey (aka Mary Lin Pardey) is famous internationally for her expertise and experience in small boat sailing. Together with her husband Larry Pardey she has been sailing and writing for many years.

Lin's (& Larry's) sailing records speak for themselves:
Smallest boat to have circumnavigated contrary to the prevailing winds around all the great southern capes

Only couple to have circumnavigated both east-about and west about on boats they built them selves, using traditional means of navigation and having no engine.

Their awards tell about their dedication to the world and spirit of ocean cruising:

Ocean Cruising Club Award - for contributions to Seamanship for small boat sailing. Presented to Lin Pardey 1996.

Geoff Pac Memorial Award- to both Lin and Larry for fostering and encouraging ocean cruising in small yachts

Cruising World Hall of Fame-2000
Ocean Cruising Club Merit Award -To Lin and Larry for inspiring voyages including a west-about rounding of Cape Horn

Seven Seas Cruising Club Service Award - To Lin and Larry for their lifetime voyaging achievements 2004

Cruising Club of America Far Horizons Award – To Lin and Larry for life time achievements and contributions to seamanship 2009

Sail Magazines Top 40 Sailors who made a Difference – 2010 – As America’s first couple fo cruising, Lin and Larry have inspired countless sailors.


Lin and Larry currently make their home port in New Zealand.