The 70th Edition of Chapman Piloting & Seamanship Sets the Standard for Modern Boating

May 28, 2026

On sale October 6, 2026

The most trusted boating guide for over a century returns in its most comprehensive and up-to-date edition ever. Hearst Books announces the publication of the 70th edition of Chapman Piloting & Seamanship–the definitive guide to boating skills, safety, and navigation–trusted by generations of sailors and powerboaters for more than 100 years.

With boating participation continuing to grow nationwide, the 70th edition arrives at a time when safety, education, and confidence on the water are more important than ever. As both a practical manual and an enduring reference, Chapman stands alone as the boating book every mariner should own.

Long regarded as the “boating bible,” Chapman Piloting & Seamanship continues its legacy as the foundational reference for safe, confident boating on coastal and inland waters. Used and recommended by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons, and boating educators nationwide, this milestone edition delivers comprehensive instruction across every aspect of boating, including navigation, seamanship, anchoring, communications, weather, safety, engine operation, and maintenance—equipping readers with the knowledge they need whether
under sail or power.

The 70th edition features:
● Updated coverage of modern navigation systems communications technology, and propulsion
● Step-by-step guidance on essential skills, from knot tying to night navigation and heavyweather safety
● 1,500 full-color photos, charts, and illustrations
● A 4,200-entry index for fast, practical reference

Designed for both beginners and experienced mariners, Chapman’s remains the one resource boaters turn to again and again—on land for learning and onboard for real-world decision-making.

“Chapman Piloting & Seamanship has been the gold standard in boating education for over a century,” said editor John Wooldridge. “The 70th edition builds on that legacy with updated technology, expanded visuals, and the most comprehensive coverage we’ve ever offered—ensuring it remains indispensable for today’s boaters.”

Related Articles

Video Gallery

Bennington 22 MSB

By Andy Adams

If you’ve already had firsthand experience with a pontoon, you will easily understand the appeal of the Bennington 22 MSB. But if you haven’t, let’s start by reviewing a few of the reasons why pontoon boats have become top sellers in markets across North America.

Pontoon boats began in the early 1950s as basically four steel drums lashed to a frame. They were not unlike the log rafts of ancient cultures and not much more sophisticated at first.

Read More

Destinations

The Best of Two Worlds

By Mathew Channer

Interior British Columbia might not be as famous for recreational boating as Canada’s Great Lakes, yet it is no less a world-class boat­ing destination. The mountains offer their own flavour of marine adventure with their series of long, deep ribbon lakes, and there is perhaps no area that embodies this more uniquely than the iconic Okanagan basin in southern B.C. One could be forgiven for assuming this valley was purpose-built for nautical fun, with a few delightful perks thrown in to make the area entirely irresistible (wine-tasting, anyone?).

Read More

Lifestyle