New
AcquisitionsBrighton to the Med; David & Pat Teall; Adlard Coles Nautical, 2000; ISBN 0-7136-5356-6; £8.99; CA 15715
It is good to have the second book in this encouraging new series of Skipper's Cruising Guides. There is room in the market for narrative that interests the general reader and gives material of significant use to the sailor. The experienced authors point out this is not a pilot. It nevertheless has much of use to the passage maker seeking secure anchorages and pleasant surroundings, as well as practical guidance - to take down the Spanish courtesy flag in Basque waters, for example!
To anyone thinking of living aboard for a significant part of the year - the book is stimulating. It does not avoid difficulties and is clear about benefits. The most significant of which is perhaps one of time. An attractive feature is the patience and good sense they show in returning to port when a protecting headland is rounded to reveal how uncomfortable the Atlantic swell has become or when the batteries are not charging properly. David and Pat give graphic accounts of their time on land and of splendid places to visit.
The two appendices and the schedule of costs are most helpful. The first reviews the problems of keeping in touch with people at home and their own solution. The second lists the adaptations for their Voyager 35 they found necessary before living aboard. Their cost statements are more meticulously recorded than most other attempts I have seen.
This paperback has style and clear print. One or two illustrations may lose by being monochrome - a black & white sunset for example. Generally, however, the liberal illustration is effective. Copies of their information reports to the Cruising Association make clear why the CA Handbook and it's Infopaks remain some of the best material available to cruising yachtsmen. - MD
Page prepared 16 May 2000
| New
Acquisitions |