A History of Sailing in 100 Objects

By Barry Pickthall. Did you ever wonder which civilisation first took to water in small craft? Who worked out how to measure distance or plot a course at sea? Or why the humble lemon rose to such prominence in the diets of sailors?

Taking one hundred objects that have been pivotal in the development of sailing and sailing boats, the book provides a fascinating insight into the history of sailing. From the earliest small boats, through magnificent Viking warships, to the technology that powers some of the most sophisticated modern yachts, the book also covers key developments such as keeps and navigational aids such as the astrolabe, sextant and compass. 

Other more apparently esoteric objects from all around the world are also included, including the importance of citrus fruit in the prevention of scurvy, scrimshaw made from whalebone and the meaning of sailor's tattoos.

Beautifully illustrated with lively and insightful text, it's a perfect gift for the real or armchair sailor, the book gives an alternative insight into how and why we sail the way we do today.

• English
• Hardcover
• 224 pages

“A whimsical, inventive, comprehensive and scientific volume of sailing knowledge.” – Boating Times Long Island

“A delightful anthology of vignettes about all sorts of things of interest and importance to leisure, commercial and naval mariners. It has much wider appeal than just sailing and yachting.” – Ausmarine magazine

“A potpourri of all things nautical with informative text supporting each picture.” – This England

“This photographic tour through the ages is a captivating look at mankind's history at sea.” – Yachting Times

“So much more than the sum of its parts... the true joy of this book is to dip in and out of it again and again.” – Topwath Talk

“Book of the month. Beautifully illustrated and insightfully written, it offers a thoughtful tour of how we sail today and why.” – Boat International