East Africa Pilot

Publisher: Imray Laurie Norie and Wilson, 1998 £ 39.70

Since Frank Cowper introduced his "Sailing Tours" for the amateur yachtsman rather than the professional sailor, 100 years or so ago, pilots have changed. This latest addition to the ever increasing selection, covers North Kenya to Mozambique including Madagascar and Comoros, an area largely unspoilt and only visited by a handful of yachtsmen each year.

The author displays intimate knowledge of both the area and its customs. There are useful full colour chartlets of harbours and anchorages. The navigation information, including tidal streams and seasonal wind data, is specifically targeted to our use. The history of each country is catalogued. Even the quality and price of beer is covered.

Some pilots tend to be conservative to meet variable skill and crew levels, and may be discouraging. Delwyn Mcphun, however, uses his extensive knowledge to point out hazards associated with harbours and anchorages without scaring the less adventurous. The Admiralty charts for the area in general need to be used with caution in conjunction with GPS as there are some marked discrepancies. Detailed notes mean most places should not present a problem to a suitably crewed and well-found yacht. I have one criticism.

The author has not addressed adequately the need for security vigilance. It must be remembered that Tanzania, for example, is one of the poorest countries in the world and a cruising yacht may be vulnerable if suitable precautions are not implemented. This should not deter from visiting the area.

There is a wealth of detail on the amenities for each area, boatyards, hotels, water, fuel, official procedures and important telephone numbers. It is an essential reference for anyone intending to cruise the East Coast of Africa - a worthy development as a model for safe pilotage from those early days of Frank Cowper. - RH