Cost Conscious Cruising

Publisher: Waterline, 1999 £ 19.95

"Champagne Cruising on a Beer Budget" is the subtitle, and it soon becomes clear that the "beer budget" has allowed a wonderfully satisfying cruising life for the authors who share with readers an immense wealth of knowledge gained from 30 years of cruising experience. We are challenged to examine our motives and expectations from cutting shore ties, and to appreciate the requirements of sailing ability, self sufficiency leading to economy over repairs and running costs, and compatibility.

The authors produce very detailed analyses. They are backed up by excellent photographs, diagrams and comparative tables, of construction (hull shape and materials, sails, rig, ground tackle, dinghies/liferafts) use of cabin and locker space, choice of tools, cradle shapes for the occasional haul-out, and much more - wise reading for those who contemplate casting off. They postulate that safety cannot be bought; that all members of the crew must be fit for all jobs, and that the desire to cruise must be kept to the forefront. Cruising will cost as much as you have, but "If you want to be a sailor, you have to go to sea". - SF