The Sailing Mystique

Publisher: Sheridan House, 1994 £ 9.95 CA

An erstwhile editor of the American magazine, Yachting, and the author of over twenty-five books on sailing, Bill Robinson has brought together a wealth of knowledge and experience in this varied collection.

Although all have appeared before in various publications, they will almost certainly be new to most readers. His unfettered delight in sailing comes through on every page and his easy way of writing makes this a delightful book. It will appeal not only to those about to dip their own toes in the bilge water but also to the experienced cruiser.

The tales range from telling of his earliest days afloat as a 12 year old, through a lifetime love affair with the sea. He includes stories of early long distance voyagers along with descriptions of his own sailing experiences in different areas of the world. He tells of a race on board the America, (not the original but a 103 foot replica of the schooner that had won the cup from England in 1851) in the Baltic and of meetings with Royalty in Denmark. But I defy any sailor, after reading his description of the Aegean, not to reach for the latest charter brochures and start to dream. - GHC

Page prepared 5 May 1999