SORENSEN'S GUIDE TO POWERBOATS

Sorensens Guide to Powerboats is intended as an aid for the prospective boat buyer and as a reference for the boatowner as well as the boating industry professional. The book is organized in two main sections: Part 1 explains powerboat design, construction, and performance. It has been updated to address advances in boat design and manufacturing, especially the discussions pertaining to propulsion systems (chapter 8). Part 2 surveys the market, describing specific boats in 27 different categories (e.g., pontoon boats, coastal fishing boats, and express cruisers).

A clear understanding of how a boat is designed and manufactured is critical to a buyer's ability to select the right boat. For example, if you understand why a pontoon boat is designed and manufactured the way it is, you will also understand why it would make an extremely poor choice as an offshore fishing boat. Because not all such comparisons are so obvious, part 1 explains the not-so-apparent differences between various hull configurations, materials and methods of construction, power plant options, bridge design choices, deck outfitting, interior accommodations, and other factors that determine a boat's suitability for its intended purpose.

With a working knowledge of these subjects as you shop for a boat, you will understand the reasons behind the manufacturer's choices in design and construction, and you'll be better able to determine how well that particular boat suits your needs. If you are already a boatowner, you will gain a deeper understanding of your boat's strengths and shortcomings.