Handbook of Offshore Cruising

Every serious sailor dreams of the great adventure of offshore cruising. Jim Howard has been cruising the oceans of the world for many years, and he now has written the book that tells the reality of this dream. For easy reference, this important new handbook is divided into four parts: the boat, the systems and equipment, the voyage and in port. All the important topics for planning extensive offshore cruises are covered: building or buying a boat for offshore cruisign, size considerations, rig and hull design, cruising multihulls, construction materials, spars and rigging, deck layout and equipment, cockpit, below decks, engines, plumbing, electronics, sails, self steering systems, stowage, routine at sea, heavy weather sailing, navigation, safety, harbors and anchorages, security, maintenance, health and psychological aspects of sailing.