Nautical fiction is a subgenre of literature that may make you want to head out to sea. If you are looking to get into the genre, this article provides a list of great nautical novels to introduce you to nautical fiction.
What defines the nautical fiction genre?
Simply put, nautical fiction includes fiction novels that are set on or near the sea. Some novels focus on the relationship between man and the sea, while others describe sea voyages.
Would I enjoy nautical books?
If you enjoy reading novels based on adventure and have a particular interest in the sea, you will enjoy nautical books. The maritime fiction genre uses the sea as a setting, but there are also other aspects of nautical books that you may enjoy as well.
Even if you don’t have an interest in the sea, you may still enjoy nautical books. To see if you might like it before committing to buying a nautical book, try reading a nautical novel that overlaps with other genres you already enjoy.
The best nautical fiction books to get into the genre
Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham
This nautical novel was published in 1955. It follows the story of a real-life person named Nathaniel Bowditch, a math genius, as he creates new ways to navigate the seas.
Carry On, Mr. Bowditch is a simple story that you can read to your children that you can enjoy as well.
The Sea Wolf and Selected Stories by Jack London
This nautical drama includes psychological elements caused by harsh conditions at sea.
A schooner captain named Wolf Larsen rescues a stranded man named Landsman and forces him to join his crew. Landsman must come to terms with this and form a relationship with Captain Larsen.
Captain Blood by Rafael Sabatini
Captain Blood contains elements of adventure, romance, and action. This nautical book follows Peter Blood, a doctor turned pirate, who searches the Caribbean for treasure.
Published in 1922, Captain Blood is a fast-paced novel that follows the life of a real person in the seventeenth century.
If you are looking to start reading nautical books, there are plenty of novels to choose from. To branch out slowly, try reading nautical books that overlap with other genres you know you enjoy. If you come by a maritime book that seems interesting, don’t be afraid to give it a shot! You may be taken away by the freedom of the open air and adventures at sea.
