Motor / power boating and cruising Books

Book SynopsisToday, yachts are often equipped with electrical windlasses, autopilot, bow thrusters, etc. This equipment has also become much more reliable, making it possible to make long offshore passages without much knowledge of seamanship. However, as the coastguards in many countries can confirm, more and more yachts require assistance, even when they should be able to reach harbour on their own. In this book you will be shown the traditional techniques you should be familiar with – regarding rope handling, manoeuvring and anchoring – in order to make long or short passages safely. Each element is clearly explained alongside detailed illustrations, combining to make a straightforward and easy-to-follow guide. Although yacht gear is becoming more and more reliable, you can be almost sure that, sooner or later, it will fail or you will be out of electrical power to use it. Learning the traditional techniques may not only be necessary but is also both interesting and fun. Instead of waking up the entire harbour in the early hours with the noise of your bow thruster, you may, alternatively, use a spring line to get safely moored to or leave the pontoon quietly. Due to the design of the book, we have had to restrict the layout of the ebook to PDF style which may result in giving you a more restricted reading experience. For this reason, we would not recommend viewing it on very small screens.Trade Review"If you're new to sailing, this book will teach you almost everything you'll ever need to know about ropework, boathandling and anchoring. Even if you've been sailing for years, there are still a few boathandling manoeuvres and anchoring techniques that you probably won't have tried." (Yachting Monthly)Table of ContentsIntroduction; Contents; ROPEWORK: The basics, Clove hitch, Bowline, Sheet bend, Reef knot, Stopper knots, Rolling hitch, Coiling ropes, Cleats, Whipping, Splicing, Lashings, Winch handling, Making fast on a bollard, Swigging (sweating), Various useful knots, Special knots / hitches; BOAT HANDLING: The basics, The propeller, The rudder, Wind impact on the hull, The boat’s turning circle, Getting to know your boat, Turning in confined spaces, Engine handling, Leaving / entering a berth, Coming alongside, Making fast, Using a bow spring, Using a stern spring, Mooring techniques, Tides, Currents, Using slip lines; ANCHORING: The basics, The anchor rode, Ground tackle, Foredeck arrangements, Anchoring techniques, Anchor buoy / signals, Anchoring under sail, Using snubbers, Using anchor chums, Weighing anchor, Using two bow anchors, A special anchor setup, Using a dinghy, The Scandinavian moor, Anchoring examples, Miscellany, Summary.

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Book SynopsisToday, yachts are often equipped with radar, GPS, chart plotters, AIS, etc. This equipment has also become much more reliable, making it possible to make long offshore passages without a great knowledge of navigation. However, such equipment can be set up wrongly, interpreted incorrectly, malfunction or lose power. In these circumstances, knowledge of traditional navigation can become extremely important. This book will teach you how to navigate in the traditional way using compass, log and plotter; and also how to navigate using electronic aids like GPS, radar and chart plotter. In addition, you will learn some basic celestial navigation using the sun and stars to obtain your position using sextant, almanacs, tables and a watch. Each method of navigation is explained alongside detailed illustrations and examples, combining to make a straightforward and easy-to-follow guide. Due to the design of the book, we have had to restrict the layout of the ebook to PDF style which may result in giving you a more restricted reading experience. For this reason, we would not recommend viewing it on very small screens.Trade Review“If you’re a newbie keen to understand what’s happening on board, this could be just the thing.” (Yachting Monthly)Table of ContentsIntroduction; Contents; TRADITIONAL NAVIGATION: How charts are created, Latitude and longitude, Position, Using charts, Variation and deviation, Steering compass, Logs and echosounders, Plotting implements, Leeway and current, Handbearing compasses, Dead reckoning / bearings, Miscellaneous, Sailing at night, IALA buoyage system, Tide and tidal currents, Navigation lights, Summary; ELECTRONIC NAVIGATION: GPS, GPS – how does it work?, GPS receivers, Using the GPS receiver, Chart plotters, Using the chart plotter, Waypoints and routes, Display setup, Receiver setup, Radar, Range / bearing discrimination, Radar operation, Adjusting the radar, Radar problems, Display setup, Collision avoidance, AIS; CELESTIAL NAVIGATION: The sun’s geographic position, Astronomical model, Principles of celestial navigation, Hour angles, Noon sight, Measuring sun’s altitude, UTC, zone and standard time, Working a sight, Sight reduction sheet, Taking the noon sight, Plotting position lines, Finding lat. and long. directly, Corrections, Stars, Polaris (North Star), Using a calculator; Appendix: Tables & formulae.

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Book SynopsisThe tale of Crusader, the jet-powered boat of 1952, appears to be a simple one about the ambition of John Cobb and Reid Railton, two unassuming but deeply gifted men, to break the water speed record on Loch Ness only for their efforts to end in tragedy. In fact the story behind that fateful outcome - Cobb's death on his first high-speed run - is a complex web of clever design and inspirational endeavour mixed with personality clashes and errors of judgement. After many years of research, including access to a wealth of original documentation, Steve Holter unravels the entire saga of the ill-fated Crusader and presents a compelling detective story.

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Book SynopsisA handy, splash-proof, on-the-water summary of the key things you need to know about navigation at sea: the perfect quick reference guide to keep onboard. The book covers all the navigation essentials: charts, compass, tides, standard and secondary ports, dead reckoning, estimated position, course to steer, lights, GPS, waypoints and buoyage in a highly illustrated format making it easy to understand at a glance – ideal for those moments when you need an answer, and you need it fast! Spiral bound, this little companion stands up to frequent use and serves as a great aide-memoire.Trade Review"...a handy splash proof guide to navigation...covers all the essentials...easy onboard use" (Boat Mart) "A handy waterproof onboard guide for those learning navigation or wanting an aide-memoire." (Yachting Monthly)Table of ContentsCharts; Latitude & Longitude; Compass; Tides; Standard Ports; Secondary Ports; Tidal Streams; Dead Reckoning (DR); Estimated Position (EP); Course To Steer; Lights; GPS & Waypoints; Buoyage

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Book SynopsisElectricity is vital on board most boats: to keep their systems running and to provide the crew with the services they expect. Much of it will be professionally fitted and many yachtsmen will have little knowledge about the finer detail of electric circuits. But, given the importance of electrical power, some understanding of it is likely to be useful: either to use when required away from the marina or to repair and upgrade your systems. This book is written to provide that understanding and to allow you to undertake electrical jobs on board yourself, properly and safely. It removes the mystique of boat electrics and gives you the confidence to tackle the jobs when you need to. Included are the minimum formulae and theory required, focussing more on the practical – using simple language and clear illustrations. There are tutorials, from using a multimeter and wiring a circuit, to troubleshooting electrical faults, all using easy-to-follow photo sequences. The book also looks at tasks such as choosing solar panels and batteries and connecting navigational instruments. The book is a great manual for a yachtsman needing to keep the power flowing. It has been thoroughly modernised and updated for this new edition by boating electric wizard Oliver Ballam.Trade Review“A book to be kept on the boat together with a selection of the well-illustrated tools… will be immediately useful, even to the least confident.” (Yachting Monthly) “Straightforward in presentation, this work offers easy-to-read explanations... The book is a typical good quality Fernhurst product: soft-back; clearly printed on good paper with copious illustration.” (Cruising Association) “This useful guide avoids too much theory but encourages better organisation and an understanding of personal priorities. Even those of us who are privately determined to use professionals whenever possible, would be well advised to read this book and keep it on board, for the moments when self-reliance is unavoidable.” (Yachting Monthly)Table of ContentsThe Authors; Introduction; 1. The Basics, 2. The Tools, 3. Multimeters, 4. Batteries, 5. Electrical Supply, 6. Switches & Relays, 7. Connections, 8. Wiring, 9. Circuits, 10. Electric Motors & Alternators, 11. Navigation Instruments, 12. Anodes, 13. Soldering, 14. Power Consumption; Appendix: Useful Tables, Useful Formulae

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Book SynopsisThe weather affects everyone at sea, whether you are pottering along the coast, motoring from port to port or sailing to another continent. This book explains the basic principles that govern the weather from a practical, on the water, sailor’s point of view. It goes through global, regional and then local weather patterns so you understand what is happening, how this might change and why. Armed with this knowledge and understanding you will be more confident to make decisions about when and when not to venture out to sea and what to expect if things change while you are out there. Simon Rowell shares his experience as a round-the world skipper and world-class weather forecaster. He explains the basic physics creatively and puts it in context with real situations to enable you to apply weather theory to practical sailing scenarios. Hundreds of illustrations aid the communication of what can be a complex subject, enabling you to better understand the weather and increase your enjoyment and safety when out on the water. This book is part of Fernhurst Books’ Skipper’s Library series of practical books for the cruising sailor.Trade Review“Simon has provided the Clipper Race, our skippers and crews and me guidance about the weather for nearly ten years now and I rely on it completely. In a sport that is reliant on natural forces, understanding those forces is fundamental to progress and safety. An understanding of the basics of meteorology is a fundamental to a sailor as knowing how to tie a bowline. Simon understands what a sailor needs to know and explains it from the sailor’s point of view rather than from a meteorologist’s perspective which is invaluable for the sailor out there on the oceans. This book will allow you to benefit in the same way and I thoroughly recommend it to you.” (Sir Robin Knox-Johnston) “With scarcely a page without colourful illustration, nine chapters guide the cruising skipper from global weather patterns, through the boundary layer to clouds, all in a straightforward narrative that is free from jargon and other gobbledegook… It is a nicely produced soft-back volume that handles well and is interesting reading for sailor or landlubber alike.” (Cruising Association) “If you want to know more about forecasting the weather or how it may affect your plans, then this is the book for you.” (RNLI Lifeboat) “Considering what it covers, this is a pretty thin book, just 94 pages in fact, which is a relief to those in need of a quick refresher course. It would also do great service as a fast reference work as it covers all the concepts you are likely to need at sea.” (Classic Boat) “In this slim book there is so much valuable technical information about why and how weather systems develop and play out… most of us would find it to be an invaluable on-board companion.” (Royal Cruising Club)Table of ContentsSimon Rowell; Foreword; Introduction; 1. Global Weather Patterns; 2. Weather, Charts, Forecast Types, GRIB Data & Terminology; 3. Mid-Latitude Depressions; 4. Highs, Lows & The Jetstream – How They Interact; 5. The Boundary Layer; 6. Topographic Effects; 7. Tropical Weather; 8. Tropical Revolving Storms; 9. Clouds.

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Book SynopsisA lot of people are drawn to the sea, and for good reason – it’s the world’s last wild and largely unspoilt wilderness. But to properly enjoy the sea, and to do so safely, you must have the skills, knowledge and confidence to plan thoroughly and stay one step ahead of the game. This book is thoughtfully written to help yachtsmen do just that. It’s not another navigation textbook; it’s written by a mariner for other mariners. It’s well-informed, easy to read and honest about the author’s triumphs and disasters over a lifetime’s navigating. He has a unique perspective having navigated in many parts of the world from high up on the bridge of a warship, close to the water in a cruising yacht and at depth in a submarine. After his navy career he was Chief Executive of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), often dealing with the consequences of poor navigation. The author brings the subject to life in a book that is designed to help yachtsmen refresh their knowledge of, and their enthusiasm for, the timeless skills of navigation. It is packed with hundreds of illustrations – colour photographs, charts, diagrams and tables – making the text easy to understand. The book is part of Fernhurst Books’ Skipper’s Library series of practical books for the cruising sailor.Trade Review“It’s beautifully laid out, very clear and easy to understand, and very knowledgeable.” (Weems & Plath) “Boissier’s latest book is superbly illustrated, informative – and offers prime snippets of the author’s triumphs and disasters over a lifetime’s navigating… A writer who shares rather than dictates a lesson. Highly recommended.” (Julian Stockwin) “This book covers everything needed in order to know where you are at a given moment, plan a voyage, predict water movement around the boat, calculate a course to steer and estimate arrival time.” (Classic Boat) “The chapters on pilotage and blind navigation are the best I have read, as are the chapters on tidal heights and streams, which contain useful rules of thumb, various tricks of the trade and other tips follow in subsequent chapters… Most people will probably learn something from this book. It is very well written and the explanations are clear, as are the diagrams and well-chosen illustrations.” (Royal Cruising Club) “There is a wealth of practical detail and advice within the soft-back volume’s 208 comprehensively illustrated full-colour pages… Navigation manuals are a crowded field but this one deserves its place in the skipper’s library.” (Cruising Association) “Navigation techniques are brought to life with practical experience and insightful commentary in his honest account of the highs and lows across a lifetime of navigating… a useful guide for the fresh-faced amateur as well as the experienced sailor.” (RNLI Lifeboat)Table of ContentsPaul Boissier, Foreword, Introduction; PART ONE: THE THEORY: 1. The World, & How It’s Portrayed; 2. Charts; 3. Position, Angles, Distance & Speed; 4. Movement Of Water: The Height Of Tide; 5. Movement Of Water: Tidal Streams & Currents; 6. The Fix; 7. Visual Aids To Navigation: Buoys, Rocks & Wrecks; 8. Radar & Radio Aids To Navigation; 9. Navigation Equipment; 10. Reference Books; 11. A Few Thoughts About Safe Navigation; 12. A Few Tricks Of The Trade; PART TWO: TYPES OF NAVIGATION: 13. Pilotage; 14. Blind Pilotage; 15. Anchoring; 16. Coastal Navigation; 17. Offshore Navigation; PART THREE: IN PRACTICE: 18. Passage Planning; 19. Lymington To Hurst Castle; 20. Hurst Castle To The Needles; 21. The Needles To The Casquets; 22. Casquets To The Little Russel; 23. Little Russel Into St Peter Port; 24. Some Cautionary Tales

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Book SynopsisDiesel engines are installed in just about every yacht and in most large motorboats and, while professional help is often at hand, sometimes it is not. Indeed, engine failure is one of the most frequent causes of RNLI launches. This book explains how to prevent problems, troubleshoot and make repairs using safe techniques. It could also help you save money on expensive bills for yard work you could do yourself. Diesels Afloat covers everything from how the diesel engine works to engine electrics, from fault finding to out of season layup. With this guide and your engine’s manual you can get the best performance from your boat’s engine and be confident in dealing with any problem. The book covers the syllabus of the RYA Diesel Engine and MCA Approved Engine (AEC-1) courses. This edition has been thoroughly modernised and updated by former course lecturer and currently chief engineer on merchant ships, Callum Smedley.Trade Review“An excellent contemporary reference that’s easy to follow. Plenty of clear diagrams and photos of both old and new engines help illustrate the main points, making the content accessible to those without a technical background.” (Practical Boat Owner) “The simplicity and clarity of the book’s presentation will instil confidence in anyone wishing to work on their engine and at the same time avoid expensive yard bills.” (Towpath Talk) “With this guide and your engine’s manual you can be confident in dealing with any problem and get the best performance from your boat’s engine.” (Sailing Today) “A solid and worthwhile book from which all may learn even if they turn gratefully to the boatyard engineer for help. Recommended.” (Yachting Monthly) “This is a typical Fernhurst effort: clear, concise, authoritative and good value… His text is supported by clear diagrams; good use is made of photographs and colour… With its combination of coverage, compactness and value, we suggest that it would be worthwhile for owners to keep a copy of the book on board… it ought to be the standard textbook.” (Little Ship Club, Autumn) “A well-illustrated and informative encyclopaedia of diesel engines and much more… The authors use many clear photographs, drawings and diagrams to illustrate the text. Of the many books available on the subject I would probably consult this first due to its ease of use and clarity.” (Cruising Association)Table of ContentsPreface; Introduction; The Diesel Engine & Hull Types; Cycle of Operation & Construction; The Fuel System; The Air System; The Engine Cooling System; Lubrication; Engine Electrics; Power Transmission; Propellers & Shafting; Electronic Engine Management; Hull Fittings; Pollution & Safety; Operation, Care & Maintenance; Troubleshooting; Layup & Recommissioning; Tools & Spares

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Book SynopsisThe Canary Islands are an idyllic cruising ground, either as a destination in their own right or for those on their way through the Atlantic. Winter charter is a popular option for Northern European sailors. This authoritative pilot guide offers the sailor a perfect handbook to the nine main islands, all 40 ports and 26 anchorages in this amazing archipelago. Packed with comprehensive pilotage and nautical information as well as suggestions of where to eat and what to do ashore, it is designed to help you make the most of your visit to this fabulous area. It is enhanced with colour charts and detailed photography, including spectacular aerial shots of ports, harbours and anchorages.Trade Review“An easy book to read, it is well laid out and includes many first rate photographs. The aerial views of harbours and their approaches are excellent. Harbour plans are clear and plentiful. Aids to navigation, particularly buoyage and lights on harbour approaches are given in detail… The clear and approachable style is much appreciated. It made me want to go back there!” (Royal Cruising Club)Table of ContentsArea chart; Preface; GENERAL INFORMATION: Geography, History, Language, Prices, Cuisine, Transport to the islands, Transport around the islands, Accommodation, Health & safety, Marine wildlife, Formalities & regulations, Meteorology, Navigation, Yacht & equipment, Mooring & anchoring; Alegranza; La Graciosa; Lanzarote; Fuerteventura; Gran Canaria; Tenerife; La Gomera; La Palma; El Hierro; Handy Dictionary; Index

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Book SynopsisWhile traditional navigation has been largely superseded by GPS, traditional navigation remains a valuable skill, an enjoyable pastime and necessary for some navigation and training courses. This handy, splash-proof, on-the-water reference guide is an aide memoire of those calculations frequently needed (but often forgotten) for traditional coastal and offshore navigation and other equations and formulae which can be useful afloat. Each topic has worked examples, and there are frequent diagrams to illustrate the process. You may be surprised by the simplicity and elegance of some of the calculations included. The book finishes by listing the main conventions used in nautical calculations and providing conversion factors which may be useful on board. Even the most dedicated GPS navigator could find this little book handy to keep on board, just in case. They may even find themselves dipping into it when they don’t actually need to.Table of ContentsIntroduction & Bearing Conversion; Speed, Time & Distance; Distance To Horizon; Distance Off; Amplitudes For Compass Checks; Sailing In Currents; Sailing To Weather; Storm Avoidance; Waves & Swell; Depth; Conventions; Conversion Factors

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