Larry Pardey, Renowned Bluewater Sailor and Author, Dies at 81

Larry Pardey, a celebrated figure in the global cruising community, has passed away at the age of 81. Pardey and his wife, Lin, rose to international recognition for their adventurous, self-reliant approach to sailing and for sharing their experiences through books and articles that inspired generations of sailors.

A Life Shaped by Small Boats and Big Journeys

Born in Canada, Larry Pardey became known for his extraordinary seamanship and simple, determined approach to voyaging. He and Lin built a 24-foot Lyle Hess-designed sailboat and set out to sail around the world, chronicling their voyages in clear, engaging writing that emphasized practical seamanship, resourcefulness and a deep love for the sea. Together they logged more than 200,000 miles, voyaging in both directions around the globe and becoming beloved figures within the cruising community.

After eleven years aboard their first Hess, the Pardeys built a larger vessel by the same designer and continued their travels. True to their philosophy of independent seamanship, neither boat carried an engine. Their choice of small, well-built, traditionally designed yachts, and their commitment to self-sufficiency and careful seamanship, left an enduring mark on recreational sailing and inspired many to rethink what was necessary for safe, fulfilling offshore voyaging.

Home on Kawau Island and Final Years

In later years the Pardeys made their base on Kawau Island, off the coast of New Zealand’s North Island. That island home became a quiet center for friends and admirers to visit and celebrate their contributions to the cruising world. In recent years Larry’s health declined; he suffered from Parkinson’s disease and Parkinsonian dementia, and following a stroke last year he had been residing in a rest home in New Zealand.

Lin Pardey announced his passing on social media, sharing personal memories and a reflection that captures the spirit of the man many knew. She recalled a phone conversation with a friend, Mike Anderson, who had once asked Larry for help on a boat restoration. When Anderson tried to thank him, Larry’s response was immediate and characteristic: “We were put on this earth to help each other.” That succinct phrase, Lin noted, reflected Larry’s generous nature and his lifelong willingness to assist fellow sailors and friends.

Peaceful Passing and Planned Memorials

According to Lin, Larry passed away peacefully at the rest home where he had been cared for during his final months. She described his death as a release from the prolonged suffering of Parkinson’s and Parkinsonian dementia, and she spoke tenderly of his memory as a husband, partner and friend who gave freely of himself throughout their life together.

With international travel still limited by Covid-19 considerations, Larry will be cremated following a quiet service. Lin has announced plans for a larger celebration of his life to be held at the end of October, intended to bring together as many friends and members of the sailing community as can attend. That gathering will offer an opportunity to remember his seamanship, his writing, and the personal warmth that endeared him to so many.

Honoring His Legacy

Those who wish to mark Larry Pardey’s memory are encouraged to support efforts that preserve his legacy on Kawau Island. A project in his name—the Larry Pardey Memorial Observatory at the children’s camp on the island—aims to maintain and expand a community resource that reflects the Pardeys’ lifelong commitment to education, adventure and sharing knowledge. If you would like to help keep his memory alive, consider making a small donation to support the observatory and related community efforts at the children’s camp on Kawau Island.

Larry Pardey’s life was defined by a commitment to practical seamanship, an unfussy love of the sea, and a willingness to help others. His books, articles and personal example will continue to influence sailors and readers for years to come, and his memory will remain strong among the many who learned from him or sailed with him.