Set to become the bible for powerboat owners and operators for years to come, this long overdue analysis and review of modern powerboat design and operation explores how powerboats have developed, why, and how design impacts on control and performance.

Every aspect of the powerboat's design is considered individually and as part of the whole. Different hull designs, including multihull and foiling craft, are assessed for their benefits and drawbacks. Engine types (whether petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid) and their influence on performance are examined and the nature and impact of different propulsion systems and driving controls is also discussed.

All factors that influence operation are featured, from how to optimise performance in varied sea conditions, matching speed to sea state, as well as tackling various common and uncommon scenarios (from driving into an inlet to coping with tidal races and harbour manoeuvring) as well as issues relating to crew safety.

For this book, Dag Pike - the world-renowned guru on powerboats - attracted contributions from many of the top international powerboat designers, providing a wealth of expert knowledge and specialist insights about modern powerboats.

The sum of their knowhow makes this book a gem of acquired knowledge, and as such will be essential for all powerboat owners, operators and designers, whether in the leisure, commercial or military sector, and it will help ensure all prospective owners get the right boat for their requirements.

Dag Pike began his career as a merchant captain, went on to test RNLI lifeboats, and took up fast boat navigation, winning a string of trophies for powerboat races around the world, including navigating Richard Branson's Virgin Atlantic Challenger on the record-breaking fastest Atlantic crossing by powerboat. He later became a navigation and powerboat journalist in demand all over the world, regularly invited to speak at conventions, and act as an expert witness at hearings. His expertise on cruising performance and racing strategy were much sought after. He is the author of numerous books for Adlard Coles, including Powerboat Design and Performance, The Complete RIB Manual and Be Your Own Boat Surveyor.