The complete hands-on sailing manual packed with detailed step-by-step diagrams, lively action photos, and expert advice on getting the most out of your sailing at whatever level.

Whether you are a dinghy or yacht sailor just learning the basics or wanting tips on sailing with the best, this fully revised manual is the book that will give you all the answers you are looking for.

It's all in here!

-What type of dinghy or yacht?
-Cruising and racing
-Launching, helming and capsizing
-Mastering the trapeze
-Sailing with a spinnaker
-Managing a crew
-Reading the weather
-Racing techniques and tactics
-Buoyage, tides, charts and navigation
-Anchoring and marina berthing
-Knots, ropes and flags
-Boat etiquette and seamanship
-Rules of the road, safety and emergencies
-Boat maintenance and repair
and much more...

This third edition has been revised throughout and brought completely up-to-date, including new techniques and developments in sailing, and new approaches to navigation, communication and first aid.

Reviews of the earlier editions:

‘It's a beautifully designed book, with glossy photos, diagrams and clear text, and a great read whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your skills’
— Practical Boat Owner

‘Lavishly illustrated, sharp photography ... a first-class introductory text’
— Yachting Monthly

This is a book for all who have ever looked out to sea and wondered * Cruising Association *

Jeremy Evans is a writer and photographer specialising in sailing. He writes for many of the UK yachting magazines, and his most recent books include The RYA Catamaran Handbook , The RYA Dinghy Racing Handbook and The RYA Yachting Careers Handbook. Pat Manley was a RYA Yachtmaster Instructor and taught RYA Yachtmaster theory and associated subjects, including radar, diesel engines and advanced navigation. He was a regular contributor to Practical Boat Owner Magazine and wrote a number of books. Barrie Smith is a RYA Yachtmaster. He has skippered numerous long distance races, assisted sail training with youth organisations and organised sail training cruises for disabled sailors.