Book Feature- 'RYA Offshore Sailing'
by Rob Tickner/Sail-World Cruising on 28 Nov 2011
Out into the ocean for the first time? This could be the book for you! SW
A couple of weeks ago we ran a feature on RYA's excellent treatise on Passage Planning. This week there's another guide from the RYA for cruising sailors, this time on offshore sailing in general, written by experienced sailor in many of the world's waters, Dick McClary. If you're just beginning to poke the bow of the boat into the wide blue yonder, 'RYA Offshore Sailing' could be a handy acquisition.
After all, offshore sailing can be exciting and brings adventure, discovery and freedom to those who undertake a long-distanced journey, but the yacht required may be different and some of the necessary skills for ocean sailing are not required in enclosed waters.
The book discusses the fundamental characteristics of what does and what doesn’t make a good offshore cruising yacht and ensures that there is a perfect balance of practical information on safety, equipment, boat design and sails both for monohulls and multihulled boats.
There is also excellent advice on how a skipper can make the journey as comfortable as possible for them and their crew.
Chapters include such vital subjects as:
- Crew Comfort Water Supply & Conservation
- Preparing for the Tropics
- Self-Steering
- The Energy Equation
It will appeal particularly to those planning to make an ocean crossing for the first time, either individually or as part of an organised rally. In doing so, it is likely that there will be a need to upgrade and equip the yacht to modern offshore standards for the voyage and to prepare it for the particular requirements of cruising in the tropics.
RYA Offshore Sailing, in just 170 pages, is sure to fire the enthusiasm of anyone looking to head for the clear waters of the open ocean.
If the book is not available at your local marine book shop, you can buy it online by http://www.rya.org.uk/shop/pages/product.aspx?pid=G87(RYADefaultCatalog)&mode=t&type=BK(RYADefaultCatalog)!clicking_here
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