For all those who love boats, their 'lines' are an essential element in the appreciation of individual craft. But what are these lines and how are they created? This book introduces the reader to the key principles of yacht design in a straightforward and understandable manner, allowing them to be aware of the elements and processes involved. Most of the complex maths has been replaced with simple rules of thumb. Any boat owner will benefit from understanding the characteristics of boat design which will help them if they want to modify the hull, rig, deck layout or accommodation. It will be equally useful to boat buyers who want to ask questions like: "How will she sail?"; "How much will she cost?"; "How easy is it to change things?" and "How can I reduce or increase sail area without upsetting the balance?" Boat owners and buyers will be able to feel more confident when talking to designers and boatbuilders about their current or future boat. While novice boat designers can start their journey with this book, giving them a good foundation whether they want to use pencil and paper or Computer-Aided Design. So, if you are any of the above, or simply have an interest in yacht design, this is the book for you!

As every boat owner knows, the more you sail, the more conscious you become of small design faults, safety deficiencies, performance problems, or simply ways in which the boat could be more efficiently maintained. This handbook tells you how to tackles such problems, how to carry out the work with confidence, fully aware of the potential pitfalls and armed with plenty of sound, step-by-step practical advice. A whole range of exciting projects are featured some simple, others more complex but none of which require boatyard expertise. As the author makes clear, the experience of doing the work yourself is rewarding and fun, and it will add to the satisfaction derived from the improvements themselves."

This book is a must for the amateur who wants to be convinced that he can confidently approach the prospect of building his own dream boat. With the support of many diagrams and sketches, Ian Nicolson teaches all the skills necessary to create anything from a small cruiser to an impressive 75-foot yacht.