“The Greatest Sailing Stories Ever Told: Twenty-Seven Unforgettable Stories” by Christopher Caswell. First edition released 2004. Lyons Press.

Southern Boating describes this books as “compelling” and says its entertaining narratives make for great reading. Try this one on for the winter hiatus.

“Fifty Places to Sail Before You Die: Sailing Experts Share the World’s Greatest Destinations” by Chris Santella. Publisher Stewart, Tabori & Chang; illustrated edition produced 2007

This book explores the favorite, “must-do” destinations shared by some great international championship sailors and adventurers.

“The Annapolis Book of Seamanship” by John Rousmaniere and Mark Smith.

The 3rd edition is the most recent, released in 1999, first edition 1983. Yachting Magazine says it is a must-read for any sailor or would-be sailor. And the American Sailing Association points out that it can serve as a superb reference manual as well as a very readable introduction to sailing for beginners.

“Things I Wish I’d Known Before I Started Sailing” by John Vigor and Thomas Payne. Published 2005 by Sheridan House.

Both beginners and experts will find here great practical advice, valuable information and all of it contained in a fun read, according to the magazines Ensign and Good Old Boat.

And for sheer visual pleasure while you’re sitting in your armchair by the fireplace, try out Onne van der Wal’s photographic award-winning “Wind and Water: Boating Photographs From Around The World”. (Bulfinch, 2004).

The professional as well as the reading public’s response to the title focuses on the obvious pleasure and knowledge van der Wal takes in.

If you are interested in learning more about sailing, Sailing Barefoot has lots more information available for free. Their latest article is on sailing certifications.