McAfee does not claim to be an expert in steel boat construction or repair and, as a result, his book is not full of formulas and charts. What he does offer is decades of hands-on experience in taking old steel boats and bringing them up to cruising standards. (His current project, at age 60, is the rebuilding of a 65’ steel vessel originally built as a steam yacht). He relates his experiences with humor, common sense, encouragement, and enough information to persuade you to build or repair a steel boat yourself. He shares his insight into what to look for in a steel boat, and how much should you try to do yourself vs. hiring a professional. He doesn’t ‘teach’ cutting or welding steel but exposes the reader to the main considerations in order to give a solid working knowledge, whether you intend to do it yourself or hire a pro.