Off the Shelf – Book Recommendations for Ocean and Adventure Lovers

In this revived Offshore Online column, we’re looking beyond sailing to discover stories of exploration, endurance, scientific discovery, survival and our relationship with the natural world. From Point Nemo to Mount Everest, these are stories of people drawn to wild places — and the landscapes that shape them.

Whether you’re reading from the cockpit on your next cruising adventure, in the Clubhouse or from the comfort of home, we hope these recommendations inspire a little curiosity, offer a new perspective and perhaps even spark your next journey into the wild.

Hope – Cristina Mittermeier

Acclaimed conservation photographer Cristina Mittermeier showcases breathtaking and powerful imagery that explores humanity’s relationship with the natural world. From remote coastlines to threatened marine ecosystems, her work highlights the beauty worth protecting and the urgency of conservation. A compelling visual reminder that hope begins with action.

Waterman: the Life and Times of Duke Kahanamoku

Waterman explores the life and legacy of Duke Kahanamoku, the Hawaiian Olympic swimming champion widely credited with introducing surfing to the world. David Davis traces the story of a remarkable athlete, cultural ambassador and waterman whose influence reached far beyond sport. During visits to Australia, Kahanamoku famously demonstrated surfing at Sydney’s Freshwater Beach and Manly, helping ignite the sport’s popularity. An inspiring read about ocean culture, perseverance and the enduring spirit of adventure.

Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing

Alfred Lansing’s Endurance recounts Ernest Shackleton’s extraordinary 1914 Antarctic expedition, when his ship became trapped and crushed by pack ice. What follows is an incredible story of survival, leadership and determination as Shackleton and his crew battle brutal conditions and seemingly impossible odds. A gripping testament to human resilience in the world’s harshest environment.

Chasing the Cup – my America’s Cup Journey by Jimmy Spithill with Rob Mundle

In Chasing the Cup, Australian sailing champion Jimmy Spithill shares the intensity, innovation and pressure behind competing at the highest level of the America’s Cup. Written with sailing journalist Rob Mundle, the book offers an insider’s perspective on elite yacht racing, the personalities involved and the relentless pursuit of victory in one of sport’s greatest challenges.

Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Yann Martel’s Life of Pi follows a young Indian boy stranded in the Pacific Ocean aboard a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker. Blending survival, adventure and philosophical reflection, the novel explores faith, fear and the human instinct to endure. A thought-provoking ocean adventure that blurs the boundaries between reality and imagination.

Off the Shelf is a monthly lifestyle column detailing book recommendations old and new. Are you a book worm with an endless list of recommendations? Looking for a new audience to share your latest five-star reads? Share your book recommendations in the comments below or contact us via Share Your Story.