
A 1970s sailing legend’s raw memoir exposes offshore racing’s hidden truths. From Tabarly’s mistakes to Colas’ ego and tragic losses, this book reveals the human side of sailing’s golden age.
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Dive into the untold stories of offshore racing’s most legendary era with *The Crewmate*, a gripping memoir that pulls no punches. This isn’t just another sailing book—it’s a no-holds-barred account of the highs, lows, and outright scandals that defined the sport in the 1970s. Written by Félix Aubry de la Noë, a key figure in the golden age of sailing, this book offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on the races, rivalries, and personalities that shaped modern offshore racing.
Félix Aubry de la Noë wasn’t just a sailor; he was a pioneer. As a crewmate to legends like Éric Tabarly and Alain Colas, and as the helmsman of *France II* during the America’s Cup, he witnessed firsthand the birth of competitive offshore racing. His memoir doesn’t just recount races—it reveals the human side of the sport, from the adrenaline-fueled victories to the heartbreaking tragedies. With unflinching honesty, he shares the fear that gripped him after the drowning of his friend Dominique Guillet during a round-the-world race, a moment that changed his relationship with the sea forever.
What makes *The Crewmate* truly unique is its willingness to expose the less glamorous side of sailing. Aubry de la Noë spares no detail as he recounts the cutthroat decisions, personal rivalries, and even illegal activities that lurked beneath the surface of the sport. From the controversial selection of female crew members based on appearance to the smuggling of drugs aboard racing yachts, this book shatters the romanticized image of sailing. It’s a story of ambition, ego, and the relentless pursuit of victory—no matter the cost.
While the spotlight often shone on the skippers, *The Crewmate* is a heartfelt homage to the crew members who made the impossible possible. Aubry de la Noë celebrates the camaraderie, skill, and sheer determination of the sailors who risked everything to push the boundaries of the sport. Through his eyes, we relive iconic moments like the Transpacific Race, the tragic loss of the *Airel* crew, and the larger-than-life personalities of figures like Bernard Moitessier. This book is more than a memoir—it’s a love letter to the men and women who dared to conquer the cruel sea.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good adventure story, *The Crewmate* delivers. Its vivid storytelling and unvarnished truth make it a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of offshore racing. With its rich detail and emotional depth, this book captures the essence of a bygone era while offering timeless lessons about courage, resilience, and the price of glory.
A Riveting Memoir That Redefines Sailing Literature
Step aboard *The Crewmate* and experience the golden age of offshore racing like never before. This isn’t just a book about sailing—it’s a raw, unfiltered journey into the heart of a sport that was as brutal as it was beautiful. Written by Félix Aubry de la Noë, a legendary figure in 1970s sailing, this memoir offers an unprecedented look at the races, rivalries, and personal dramas that shaped modern competitive sailing. With 176 pages of gripping storytelling, this paperback edition is a must-have for anyone who wants to understand the true spirit of the sea.
From the Deck to the Page: A Sailor’s Unfiltered Truth
Aubry de la Noë doesn’t hold back. As a crewmate to icons like Éric Tabarly and Alain Colas, and as the helmsman of *France II* during the America’s Cup, he witnessed the highs and lows of offshore racing firsthand. His memoir goes beyond the headlines, revealing the fear, ambition, and sheer determination that drove sailors to push the limits of what was possible. Whether he’s recounting the tragic drowning of a friend or the cutthroat decisions made in the heat of competition, his writing is as honest as it is compelling.
The Dark Side of Glory: Scandals, Rivalries, and More
This book isn’t just about victories—it’s about the price of glory. Aubry de la Noë pulls back the curtain on the scandals and controversies that rocked the sailing world, from the selection of female crew members based on appearance to the smuggling of drugs aboard racing yachts. He doesn’t shy away from criticizing the egos and mistakes of even the most revered figures, including Tabarly and Colas. For anyone who’s ever wondered what really happened behind the scenes of the sport’s most iconic races, *The Crewmate* delivers the unvarnished truth.
A Love Letter to the Unsung Heroes of the Sea
While skippers like Tabarly and Colas often stole the spotlight, *The Crewmate* is a tribute to the crew members who made their victories possible. Aubry de la Noë celebrates the skill, bravery, and camaraderie of the sailors who risked everything to conquer the world’s most treacherous waters. Through his vivid storytelling, readers will relive the thrill of the Transpacific Race, the tragedy of the *Airel* crew’s disappearance, and the larger-than-life personalities that defined an era. This book is more than a memoir—it’s a celebration of the men and women who dared to challenge the sea.
Perfect for Sailing Enthusiasts and Adventure Seekers
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or simply someone who loves a good adventure story, *The Crewmate* is a book you won’t want to put down. Its rich detail, emotional depth, and unflinching honesty make it a standout in sailing literature. Weighing just 281 grams and measuring 14.9 x 22 x 1.5 cm, this paperback edition is the perfect size to take with you on your next voyage—or to enjoy from the comfort of your favorite reading nook. Published in September 2009, it’s a timeless addition to any bookshelf.
*The Crewmate* is a meticulously crafted paperback edition designed for both durability and portability. With 176 pages of gripping content, this book is lightweight at just 281 grams, making it easy to carry wherever your adventures take you. Its compact dimensions—14.9 x 22 x 1.5 cm—ensure it fits comfortably in a bag or on a shelf, while its softcover binding offers flexibility without compromising on quality. Published in September 2009, this French-language edition is in pristine, new condition, ready to deliver hours of immersive reading.
For decades, this publisher has been a trusted name in maritime literature, specializing in books that capture the spirit of the sea. With a focus on authentic storytelling and high-quality publications, they have built a reputation for delivering works that resonate with sailors, historians, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Their catalog includes memoirs, technical guides, and historical accounts, all crafted to inspire and inform readers who share a passion for the ocean.
The book weighs 281 grams.
The dimensions are 14.90 x 22.00 x 1.50 centimeters.
The book contains 176 pages.
No, the book is only available in French.
The book was first published in September 2009.
The author is Félix Aubry de la Noë.
The book has a paperback cover.
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