Reviewed in SAILING October 2006: This, the first of two companion ‘Day Skipper’ books, deals with an introduction to navigation theory, safety and seamanship. Very clearly illustrated with colour drawings and graphics, it is, in a sense, a refresher course for those who have done some sailing, and an excellent starter for those who don’t know the sharp from the blunt end of a boat. It begins with nautical terms, and then moves through sections on parts of the boat, types of yacht, sailing theory, rope work, knots, mooring, anchoring etc., before going on to safety, rules of the road and lights and shapes. Then, and only then, does this slim little publication with an amazing amount of information, begin to deal with navigation, from interpreting charts, to plotting positions, unravelling the mysteries of tide, compass variation and deviation, and the host of other things that one ought to know in order to make a safe passage. As with all Royal Yacht Association training publications, this one hits the target market. It covers all aspects of the Day Skipper syllabus, and is a perfect aide memoir for anyone who has taken or is taking a beginner’s course.

Price:   - available on request -

Book ID (for ordering):   2250