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Water Sports

Dive into our collection of water sports books spanning kayaking, sailing, wild swimming, surfing and open-water adventures. From coastal explorations and river journeys to ocean crossings and cold-water therapy, discover the stories and guides that bring the water to life.

2 books

Art of The Boat 2026 Wall Calendar : Mystic Seaport Museum – The Rosenfeld Collection

Art of The Boat 2026 Wall Calendar : Mystic Seaport Museum – The Rosenfeld Collection

Mystic Seaport Museum

Calendar

Big Wave Surfing Wall Calendar 2026

Big Wave Surfing Wall Calendar 2026

Russell Ord, Workman Calendars

Calendar

About Water Sports

From the adrenaline rush of big wave surfing to the meditative calm of wild swimming, water sports offer some of life's most transformative experiences. Our curated collection brings together the essential reads for anyone drawn to aquatic adventure — whether you're planning your first kayaking trip, dreaming of ocean crossings, or seeking inspiration from those who've pushed the boundaries of what's possible on and beneath the waves.

These books span the full spectrum of water-based pursuits: practical guides for sailors navigating coastal waters, memoirs from channel swimmers and Atlantic rowers, explorations of cold-water therapy's healing powers, and stunning visual celebrations of maritime heritage. You'll find technical manuals for aquatic fitness, shore guides for exploring new coastlines, and deeply personal accounts of how paddleboarding, swimming and sailing have changed lives.

Whether you're an experienced sailor, a wild swimming enthusiast, a surfing devotee, or simply curious about life on the water, these books offer knowledge, inspiration and insight. They're perfect for armchair adventurers planning their next expedition, athletes seeking to improve their technique, or anyone who finds solace, challenge and joy in the world's rivers, lakes and oceans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our collection includes several excellent wild swimming titles, from Breaking Waves, which explores discovery and healing in open water, to An Opinionated Guide to Swim London for urban swimmers. Blue Scotland offers comprehensive coverage of Scotland's wild waters, perfect for those seeking pristine locations.

Yes, many titles cater specifically to beginners. Books like Boat Buying Basics and shore guides to destinations such as The Netherlands and West Country provide essential introductory information. We also feature inspirational memoirs that show how people discovered water sports later in life, such as A Mid Life Less Ordinary.

Absolutely. Our collection includes remarkable accounts like A Mid Life Less Ordinary, which chronicles rowing the Atlantic at fifty, and 150 Years of Swimming the Channel, celebrating the world's most famous swimming challenge. These books offer both inspiration and insight into pushing human limits on water.

We feature comprehensive sailing resources including Bonnie Dahl's Superior Way for cruising Lake Superior, and Adlard Coles shore guides covering various coastal regions. A Sailor's Tales offers practical wisdom alongside storytelling, while guides like those for The Netherlands provide everything you need when stepping ashore.

Yes, Canoe and Kayak Building the Light and Easy Way offers practical construction guidance, while Bark Canoes: The Art and Obsession of Tappan Adney explores the traditional craft and artistry of canoe building. These books appeal to both practical builders and those interested in maritime heritage.