The author recounts his formative decades in the boatbuilding industry and competitive sailing. Gilbert Littler details his early career, beginning with an apprenticeship at Chas. Bailey & Son Ltd., a company with a significant history in boat construction. The narrative spans thirty years, from 1962 to 1992, a period that saw New Zealand emerge as a notable force in international offshore racing. Littler's personal experiences are interwoven with the evolution of this maritime era.

This memoir offers a firsthand account of a specific era in New Zealand's maritime history, focusing on boatbuilding and offshore racing. The author's direct involvement provides an insider's view of the industry's development and the competitive sailing scene. The narrative is likely to appeal to those interested in maritime crafts, sailing history, and personal stories from this period. It presents a detailed look at a specialized field through the lens of an individual's career.