#book: At The Mercy Of The Sea by John Kretschmer

I read this terrifying true story in just a few days. It shows how insignificant human effort can be in the eye of nature's fury, how heroic the character is, and how precious life is. 

The book is also a riveting and informative guide on heavy-weather sailing. It is a great, well-written book and a "must-have" on the sailor's bookshelf.


"At the Mercy of the Sea: The True Story of Three Sailors in a Caribbean Hurricane" by John Kretschmer is a gripping narrative that intertwines the fates of three sailors who faced one of the most devastating hurricanes in the Atlantic. 

Written by a seasoned sailor and marine writer, the book provides an intense, firsthand look at the dangers of open-sea sailing, especially during extreme weather conditions.

The book details the tragic events when Hurricane Lenny, "the wrong-way hurricane" because of its unusual path, struck the Caribbean in 1999. 

Kretschmer uses his extensive sailing experience to recount the harrowing struggles faced by Carl Wake, a retired music teacher, and experienced sailor; Steve Rigby, a charter skipper; and Richard Cornick, a newcomer to long-distance sailing, as they each attempt to navigate through the storm.

"At the Mercy of the Sea" should be praised for its visceral and detailed storytelling that not only captures the physical challenges of sailing in such extreme conditions but also the emotional and psychological trials faced by the sailors. 

Kretschmer's narrative skillfully conveys the vastness of the sea and the unpredictability of nature, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by survival stories or maritime adventures.

The book might be appreciated for its deep humanity and the respectful way it addresses maritime disasters and their consequences. 

While the book is a thrilling adventure, it also serves as a poignant reminder of nature's power and the human spirit's resilience. 

It is highly recommended for those who enjoy true survival stories and nautical non-fiction or are fans of John Kretschmer's other works.






















Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3vL1tDs

Other books by John Kretschmer https://amzn.to/3VZCrLu

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.




As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

My favorite quotations..


“A man should be able to change a diaper, plan an invasion, butcher a hog, conn a ship, design a building, write a sonnet, balance accounts, build a wall, set a bone, comfort the dying, take orders, give orders, cooperate, act alone, solve equations, analyze a new problem, pitch manure, program a computer, cook a tasty meal, fight efficiently, die gallantly. Specialization is for insects.”  by Robert A. Heinlein

"We are but habits and memories we chose to carry along." ~ Uki D. Lucas


Popular Recent Articles