Know Your Boat

My husband got this book, then insisted I read it. It really gives me insight into our boat. Now the secret does not belong to him alone and I can feel more pride in knowing my boat.

Mr. Sollers covers the systems that make a boat work with a considerable amount of humor. For example, he calls boat owning a disease, an addiction. He says there should be organizations to help. I've gotten a lot of laughs out of this volume, some darned good advice too. It's a must have book, especially for someone who is new to boats and has never had a wrench in his hand.

Will be appreciated by fans of John Muir's ubiquitous "How to Keep Your Volkswagen Alive: A Guide for the Complete Idiot," without the Eastern mysticism. Lots of simple illustrations that are both humorous and informative. Explanations are comprehensive without being overwhelming. Can't think of an important system he left out (unless you need help fixing your dingy's outboard.) After reading this book, I was actually excited about diving into my day-sailer's systems, and I look forward to the challenge of a bigger boat.

I recommend this book to anyone new to boating. It is written with humor and gives solid information regarding the working systems involved in a vessel. Although the information is not specific to any one type of vessel, the detail (and illustrations) are very useful in understanding the functions of (engines, boat electricity, plumbing, among other items and of course toilets).

Very clear with plenty of easy to follow drawings and schematics, this book sheds light on very confusing aspects of boat ownership, chartering, surveying or just 'using'. Now, when I lift a floorboard or the engine room I know what every piece is and is supposed to do. David cruised extensively and he gives us the benefit of all his mistakes. I strongly suggest buying this book and keepint it on board.