Fibreglass Boats

Fibreglass Boats is the definitive guide to understanding, maintaining and repairing GRP hulls. Since its first publication over 45 years ago, Hugo du Plessis’ classic reference work has remained a trusted resource for owners, builders and marine surveyors alike.

Written in a clear, accessible style, the book explains how fibreglass behaves, where and why it may fail, and how to fix common problems – from stress cracking to blistering and osmosis. Packed with illustrations, it demystifies GRP construction and offers practical solutions for extending the life of your boat.

This updated edition includes the latest research into osmosis and other common concerns. An essential manual for anyone working with fibreglass hulls, whether for routine maintenance or major repair.

Main Sections

• Section A – General principles
• Section B – Understanding how fibreglass can fail
• Section C – Turning a bare moulding into a boat
• Section D – The gel coat
• Section E – In the beginning – moulding
• Section F – Maintenance and use
• Section G – Repair

About the Author

Hugo du Plessis has spent a lifetime working with fibreglass. Beginning his career as a moulder and boatbuilder, he later became a surveyor specialising in fibreglass vessels. He has owned boats for more than sixty years, and his books are recognised around the world.

Praise for Fibreglass Boats

“One of the most respected works on the subject... thorough and its scope is vast”
– Yachting Monthly

“A long-established classic”
– Kelvin Hughes

“Amply illustrated with drawings, photographs and tables, and contains just about everything that the owner of a fibreglass boat would wish to know”
– Nautical Magazine, November 2010

“This is a brilliant book and a must for all who maintain their own boats. It is also an invaluable source of reference for anyone wanting practical advice on working with GRP.”
– Compass Magazine, 2010

“Covers everything from principles of construction to maintenance and repair via extensive coverage of what can go wrong.”
– Cruising Magazine, March 2010