If you only ever buy one sailing book… make it this one.
After teaching close to a thousand students as a Yachtmaster Instructor, I get asked this question all the time: “What’s the best sailing book to get?”
My answer is always the same: Reeds Skipper’s Handbook.
Why This Sailing Book?
1. Everything You Need, Nothing You Don’t
It looks small—don’t let that fool you. This compact handbook contains 95% of the sailing theory you’ll ever need at sea. Unlike thick textbooks that gather dust on a shelf, this book is practical.
Its updated 8th edition covers:
- Essential navigation skills, traditional and electronic
- Tides, tidal streams and curves
- The rules of the road, and buoyage
- Safety and distress
- Communications
- Weather
- Anchoring and mooring
- Sails and wind
- Knots, bends and hitches
- Inland waterways/CEVNI
All in a format you can carry with you on and off the water.
2. Great support for Course Preparation
From your beginners sailing course right up to Yachtmaster and beyond, this book is an excellent study and reference companion.
While this isn’t a replacement for any specific course study materials, it is an excellent pocket-sized support for quick, clear referencing when on courses and beyond.
3. An on-water refresher
This book stays relevant throughout your entire sailing journey, which is why even as an instructor – it is still my number one go-to. Even with completed certifications and many miles logged, it’s important to stay sharp with your theory—no matter how confident you feel. It’s the kind of reference you can reach for on any sailing trip – from a casual day cruise to an ocean passage.
Who is it for?
Absolute beginners: If you’re about to take your first sailing course, flipping through this beforehand is a great idea. You don’t have to understand everything, but having a basic knowledge of the concepts will give you a great headstart.
Course participants: Preparing for your sailing course? Whether you’re gearing up for your RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104 or IYT International Bareboat Skipper, this is an excellent study companion alongside any specific course materials advised by the association or scheme you’re training with.
Experienced skippers: Even with thousands of miles under your belt, this book is excellent as a quick refresher before an upcoming charter holiday, good entertainment on a night passage or as a book by the fire in the winter when you’re dreaming of your next adventure on the water. It’s also fantastic as an on-board reference if there’s something you notice you need to brush up on.
Where to Get It
You can find the Reeds Skipper’s Handbook on Amazon or at most marine bookstores.
(This is an affiliate link, which means if you purchase through this link, Find a Sail may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep creating free sailing resources like this one.)
Final Thoughts
I’ve read dozens of sailing books over the years, and while many are excellent, I’ve found this is the one that’s stuck with me, and that I continue to recommend on my sailing courses.
The Reeds Skipper’s Handbook strikes the perfect balance. It’s comprehensive without being overwhelming, portable without sacrificing detail, and written in plain English that makes sense on the water.
If you’re serious about sailing—whether you’re just starting out or working toward higher qualifications—this is the one book that deserves a permanent spot in your sailing kit. Mine’s been in my pocket for over ten years.
Ready to Put Your Knowledge to the Test?
Now that you have the right study materials, it’s time to get on the water. Whether you’re looking for your first course or advancing your certifications, we can help you find the perfect sailing course for your goals.
Find sailing courses worldwide →
Want to test your current sailing theory knowledge?
Take our sailing theory quiz →
Enjoying these sailing resources? Browse more articles in our Learning Center or follow us on Instagram for quick sailing tips
