Small-Boat Sailing - Practical Guide to Managing Small Yachts

In this review of Small-Boat Sailing, the reviewer finds a compact but thorough manual aimed at yachtsmen who sail small open and half-decked craft; the single biggest reason to buy is the book's practical, illustrated treatment of everyday seamanship that still applies to modern small-boat cruising. Originally published in London in 1931 and republished for collectors and active sailors alike, this edition is best valued for its clear chapters on selecting a boat, handling wind effects, and the hands-on skills sailors need to maintain safety and efficiency on sea and river passages.

Key Features

• Classic instructional content: Chapters cover the selection of a boat and the effect of wind, giving readers grounded guidance on choosing and handling small yachts.
• Practical seamanship techniques: Detailed sections on splices, knots, and tackles provide usable instruction for everyday rigging and repair tasks.
• Variety of boat types: Treatment of open sailing boats, boom-sailed craft, and half-decked boats helps sailors compare rigs and hull types for specific cruising needs.
• Cruising and coastal navigation: The book includes material on cruising, coasting, and a description of voyages that illustrate real-world application of the techniques discussed.
• Illustrated reference: Well illustrated plates and drawings support the text, making technical points easier to follow for hands-on learners.

Who It's For

This volume suits small-boat owners, aspiring yachtsmen, and students of traditional seamanship who appreciate concise, experience-driven instruction. It is especially helpful for readers who operate open boats, half-decked craft, or small decked yachts and need practical advice on handling, rigging, and coastal cruising.

Those seeking modern electronics, up-to-date regulatory changes since the early 20th century, or contemporary boatbuilding methods should look elsewhere; the book excels as a classic reference on fundamentals rather than a modern equipment catalogue.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Timeless, practical instruction on knots, splices, and tackles that remain useful to modern small-boat sailors.
• Clear coverage of different boat types and rigs helps readers match craft to intended use.
• Illustrations support technical explanations, improving usability for hands-on tasks.

Cons

• Published originally in 1931, the book does not address modern electronics or recent regulatory updates.

Specifications

Title	Small-Boat Sailing - An Explanation of the Management of Small Yachts
Author / Brand	E. F. Knight
Original Publication	London, 1931
Content Focus	Selecting boats, sail handling, knots, seamanship, cruising
Boat Types Discussed	Open sailing boats, boom-sailed, half-decked, decked yachts
Illustrations	Well illustrated plates and drawings
Audience	Yachtsmen, small-boat sailors, maritime history readers

Our Verdict

Small-Boat Sailing remains a worthwhile purchase for sailors who value classical, hands-on instruction in handling small yachts; its illustrated techniques on knots, rigging, and seamanship offer lasting practical value. While not a source for modern instruments or recent regulations, it is good value as a revived classic reference for training and coastal cruising preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this book suitable for beginners?
Yes; the book explains basic seamanship and rigging in a practical way that benefits newcomers as well as experienced small-boat sailors.

Does it cover modern navigation equipment?
No; originally published in 1931, the text focuses on traditional techniques rather than contemporary electronics or instruments.

Are the illustrations useful for practical work?
Yes; the well illustrated plates and drawings are intended to clarify knots, splices, and handling methods for hands-on application.