Ocean sailing

Trans-ocean sailing is easy to learn. The coastal sailor will find a logical extension of what he already knows and the novice will find it easier to master than inshore sailing. Out of sight of land one has more space and more time to get to know the sea in all its moods. There are no lee shores, rocks, tidal calculations or tricky harbour entrances to contend with. It is a mistake to believe that only the most experienced yachtsmen can successfully cruise or race across an ocean. A lifetime could be spent learning all there is to know about the sea, but how much of this is really essential ? Here lies the purpose of this book. From knowledge gained in many voyages, including two circumnavigations under sail via Cape Horn, I have sorted out what one actually needs to know to prepare for, and undertake, a long ocean voyage. The book covers the practical aspects of every stage of atrip—choosing the yacht, planning the route, shipboard routine, sail handling systems(cruising and racing), safety and survival procedures, navigation, food, health, repair sand maintenance and advice on a few special hazards. Also included are chapters on multihull and single-handed sailing.