Introduction to Yacht Design: For boat buyers, owners, students & novice designers

by Ian Nicolson

Overview

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!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781912621446
Publisher:	Fernhurst Books
Publication date:	11/11/2022
Series:	Skipper's Library , #6
Edition description:	2nd ed.
Pages:	96
Product dimensions:	6.75(w) x 9.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

Ian Nicolson has been involved in yacht design since he started his apprenticeship during the Second World War. He was senior partner of A Mylne & Co, the oldest yacht design firm in continuous production. Based in Scotland he has written 26 books and built 5 yachts for himself.

Table of Contents

Foreword; Introduction; PART 1: HOW TO BEGIN: 1. Good-Looking Craft, 2. Honing the Specification, 3. Sketching the Layout & Appearance, 4. Drawing a Design; PART 2: DESIGNING THE YACHT: 5. Drawing the Lines, 6. Weight & Displacement, 7. How Will She Perform? 8. Sail Plan, 9. Construction, 10. Engines, 11. The Cabin Accommodation Plan, 12. The Deck Plan, 13. Costing a Design; PART 3: MAKING ALTERATIONS TO A DESIGN: 14. Changing the Sail Plan, 15. Designing an Alteration; PART 4: TO USE COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN OR NOT? 16. Computer-Aided Design; Glossary; Bibliography.

Editorial Reviews

Ian, with vast experience both at sea and behind the drawing board, is well known for his technical writing. He has the gift of making his subject both intelligible and interesting and blends theory, experience and sheer common sense without ever being condescending.” (Flying Fish)

“It is his level of experience and knowledge about boats that makes Ian the ideal person to introduce you to yacht design… It is a complicated business, but Ian explains the principles in a straightforward and understandable way. I have no hesitation in recommending this book to anyone who is interested in understanding a bit more about yacht design, be they a boat owner, buyer or someone thinking about training to be a designer.” (Rob Humphreys)
“A ‘box’ set’ of short articles, illustrated with Ian’s captivating line art, which takes us progressively, one easy step at a time, further into that big subject of boat design.” (Watercraft Magazine)
“Nicolson is writing from a long lifetime of practical experience and also experience of writing and teaching. He knows how to keep his explanations brisk and accessible.” (Yachting Monthly)
“This is a short, easy to read book with many simple diagrams that is just right for anybody interested in the process of designing a yacht plus understanding what the basic design diagrams are showing.” (Little Ship Club)
“Written in an informal and often amusing style… copiously illustrated with his delightful and clear freehand drawings… The book provides a simple and clear introduction to how yachts work.” (Cruising Association)

From the Publisher