...there is much in here to interest the inexperienced potential skipper/owner of a planned ocean or long distance passage. (Mapes) covers everything from choice of vessel, fitting out, voyage planning, victualling, boat handling, crew selection, health, etc. There is a particularly large section on weather and forecasting... I would strongly recommend it for anyone planning a long voyage for the first time as skipper or crew as one very experienced skipper's way of doing things.
Royal Naval Sailing Association
Any library strong in nautical how-to information or offshore sailing needs Ed Mapes' Further Offshore, directed to sailors who already have the basics down and who want to go further than day sailors usually achieve, to bluewater heights. The author is a USCG certified Master Mariner, sailing instructor and delivery skipper and has years of sailing behind him. Highly recommended as a definitive guide to everything from boat insurance and weather to watchkeeping and safety.
The Bookwatch
This book describes all the steps involved in becoming an accomplished offshore passagemaker. This includes the selection of the right boat, planning a voyage, outfitting and routing, as well as weather, medical concerns, etc. You will learn how to inspect a boat for seaworthiness as well as the best anchoring techniques. For the newcomer to sailing who is planning to go voyaging, this is a must-have book. The author is a licensed Coast Guard Master.
Latitudes & Attitudes