From packing and planning to enjoying life aboard and ashore, “The Perfect First Mate” helps boaters streamline tasks and maximize efficiency, safety and comfort, while leaving plenty of time for pleasure. Contents include storage issues, moving and sleeping comfortably below decks, keeping the cabin warm/cool, counteracting boat odor, mold and mildew and dealing with trash, laundry and marine toilets. One entire section is devoted to food: provisioning and storage, equipping the galley and cooking, with original recipes included. Smith also provides an in-depth discussion of how to protect against the elements, avoid injury and deal with the logistics of sailing, from planning, navigation and weather to performing First Mate duties on deck.

Edition: 1999