Price: £11.99

We have all spent time leafing through sailing magazines looking longingly at boats and equipment that in reality we cannot afford. Sailing as a pastime, however, comes with a large price tag and in the present stringent times those dreams of boat ownership can fade away but hope is at hand in Alistair Buchan’s excellent handbook. Condensed into 138 pages is a wealth of information on all aspects of sailing on a realistic budget. It is aimed mainly at those who are starting out but contains much that is of practical use to the established sailor.

He guides us through the decision-making process in choosing the kind of sailing you are aiming for, acquiring the right boat whether it be new, second-hand, DIY or a refitting job and where you might find it. There are useful hints too on doing your own surveying with a comprehensive checklist for both above and below deck including the engine. Only then can you decide on which boat is worth a professional survey! The whole process clearly demands considerable investment of time and effort but can be rewarded by considerable saving on costs.

The author follows through to berthing and mooring expenses, maintenance, annual refits, sources of personal gear and even shoestring cruising strategies. He has thought of everything you need to know based on his 50 years of cruising experience. All you have to do is get out there, start your search and realise that dream for next season not forgetting to take Alistair Buchan along with you. - Patricia Cooper