Customer Reviews

Pocket Cruisers for the Backyard Builder: 30 Small Sailboats You Can Build for Less Than $12,000

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The author looks at 30 boats ranging from 15' (785 lbs disp.) to 29' (12,400 lbs disp.). There are no more than 2 designs from the same designer. Also there is a lot of variety from one boat to the next. This is true of the constructions methods & materials, size, appearance, age of design, hull form, rig, intended purpose of the boat... This variety is a great attribute of the book as it increases its educational potential.

Each boat gets its own chapter (~5 pages). The context of each chapter varies a bit. Some put emphasis on the construction method, the attributes of the rig or hull, some on history of the hull type... I find it all very informative and interesting.

I'm unsure as to why this book is out of print. I believe that the author's other books do quite well. I would think if this book were to be put back into print it would sell also?

I hope Dave Gerr writes another book. I recomend all three of the books I have by him (The Nature of Boats & The Elements of Boat Strength). He is open to many design types and gives all the the factors that contribute to a good design their fair consideration. Unlike some, he doesn't over emphasize any one characteristic.

The information in this book is not enough to be able to build the boats from. It is instead enough to evaluate a design and decide if you want to purchase the plans. Sometimes including some construction details, sail plan, lines drawings...

My book was printed in 1987 and the $12k applies to all boats, but for some of the larger would require minimal systems (always includes engine) and outfitting to achieve the $12k limit in 1987 dollars.

An additional note: I bought this book while it was out of print for ~$25. I have seen it for $50 to $100+ and although I like the book, such high prices don't seem appropriate.