1936 – 2025.
It is with deep sadness that we share news of the passing of Alan Lucas, a revered figure in Australia’s boating community and a treasured maritime author whose works have long been a staple in the libraries of serious seafarers.
Alan passed away peacefully a week after his 89th birthday, surrounded by family at Gosford Hospital.
As per his wishes, there was no formal funeral, and he was cremated privately on 17 July.
A public memorial service to celebrate his life and legacy will be held in the coming months, with details to be announced.
Alan’s contribution to the sailing world is difficult to overstate. Over a career spanning more than 60 years at sea, he authored nearly 40 books—many running through multiple editions—and wrote countless articles for sailors, liveaboard yachties, and boating enthusiasts. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his significant contribution to maritime literature.
Alan passed away peacefully a week after his 89th birthday, surrounded by family at Gosford Hospital. As per his wishes, there was no formal funeral, and he was cremated privately on 17 July. A public memorial service to celebrate his life and legacy will be held in the coming months, with details to be announced.
Alan’s contribution to the sailing world is difficult to overstate. Over a career spanning more than 60 years at sea, he authored nearly 40 books—many running through multiple editions—and wrote countless articles for sailors, liveaboard yachties, and boating enthusiasts. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his significant contribution to maritime literature.
Originally trained as a commercial artist, Alan brought a unique blend of talents to his work—writing, illustrating, photographing, and charting every location he documented. He personally surveyed and took soundings at each site, producing works that became trusted companions at sea. His writing was distinguished by a warm, practical tone that conveyed both deep expertise and a genuine love for the ocean.
Christian Brook, Director of Boat Books Australia, remarked: “Alan’s books have long been essential reading for every true-blue Aussie boater. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy through his writing—and an equally significant void in our collective knowledge of Australia’s extraordinary oceans and waterways.”
Alan’s focus was primarily on the NSW and Queensland coasts, where he held a particular passion for the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding waters. A pragmatic environmentalist, he bore witness to and chronicled the ongoing degradation of these fragile marine ecosystems.
Over his lifetime, Alan personally built or refitted more than 20 yachts, beginning at the age of 14. Together with Patricia and son Ben, he sailed extensively—circumnavigating the globe, visiting more than 50 countries, and crossing all major oceans under sail, navigating by sextant without the aid of GPS or modern automation.
Despite his renown, Alan remained a humble and compassionate man, devoted to his craft and the sea he so loved. He shunned the public spotlight, choosing instead to focus on his work and his voyages. His passing marks the end of an era in Australian maritime life.
Alan is survived by his wife Patricia Lucas, sons Danik and Ben, and stepchildren Julie, Katrina, and William Greenwood.
On behalf of the marine industry, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Alan’s family.
