What is the difference between a deep-vee hull and a modified vee? A planing hull and a displacement hull? A semi-displacement hull? Why does Jane's boat have clever flared topsides? (Why doesn't mine?) Is my boat adequately powered? How was it built? Can I take it offshore? Do I need a three-bladed prop? All About Powerboats answers these and myriad other questions asked by readers seeking a basic understanding of modern powerboat design and the results out on the water. Roger Marshall, an accomplished naval architect, offers a well-illustrated introduction to the design of small powerboats (18 to 30 feet). The browser in the boatyard will learn to identify a planing or semi-displacement hull, recognize the design objectives behind it, and make good inferences about the boat's characteristics - its speed, stability, fuel efficiency, or fitness for offshore use. The reader will also find in Marshall's book a first-rate education in the major systems and features commonly found on powerboats (e.g., engine and drive train, steering systems, and safety features). All About Powerboats can be thought of as "Powerboat Design 101," approaching design from the perspective of use. Although not written as a buying guide, its discussions of hull shapes, engines, steering systems, and construction methods will be directly relevant to the buying process. Roger Marshall is uniquely qualified to write this book (see below). After designing for the legendary firm of Sparkman & Stephens, he founded his own design company and has created boats from 15 to 65 feet in length. He is the author of ten yachting books, among them The Complete Guide to Choosing a Cruising Sailboat (International Marine, 1999).