NP289 Maritime Communications - UK and the Mediterranean (inc. Azores)

Publisher: UK Hydrographic Office, 2003 £ 17.95

Now in its 3^rd edition, this Admiralty Leisure publication carries all the communications information needed by the yachtsman cruising the UK and Mediterranean. Completely updated with much additional information and excellent aerial colour photographs of many harbours, it can easily be kept up-to-date with monthly amendments available at www.nms.ukho.gov.uk .

Sections cover GMDSS, DSC, SafetyNET, Navtex; Radio Facsimile, Safety and Weather, VHF management, Coast Radio Stations; Marinas, Ports and VTS; Satellite systems.  Most valuably, for each marina or port we are given accurate co-ordinates, VHF channels, telephone numbers, tidal access/lock opening times, office opening times, email addresses and web sites.

One contentious change has however been made; whereas the marinas and ports were arranged geographically along coasts, as in all almanacs and the Hydrographic Office’s own Pilots, the latest editions are ordered alphabetically. Thus it is first necessary to locate the maps showing the names and locations of the marinas for which information is given, not easy as the position of these within the country listings is inconsistent, then determine which is your nearest harbour and find this alphabetically. Apparently a result of digitization, but surely a case of tail wagging dog. Hopefully the H.O. will reconsider this confusing change. 

Despite this criticism NP289 should be regarded as indispensable and have a place on every safety-conscious Med yachtsman's bookshelf. Economically priced it can be highly recommended.  - RMG