Kayaking is a tremedously wide-ranging sport. You can go for a leisurely paddle on your local pond, travel down a river or experience the thrills of white water. It is trully a sport for life. This lavishly-illustrated, clearly-written guide will have you out on the water fast - and in safety. It covers how to get started, the equipment you'll need, launching, how to control the boat, basic manoeuvres, what to do if you capsize, the Eskimo roll and rescue procedures.

This handbook provides a grounding in the principles and techniques of sailing the modern cruising yacht. It includes advice on boat types, sail theory and navigation.

"Outstanding. Its combination of historical material, maps, photos, and travelogue brings the fur trade era alive. Seldom has the past and the present been brought together so successfully." -George Melnyk, University of Calgary "The reader is exposed to hundreds of points of interest, historical rock paintings, landmarks, campsites, local histories, and folklore...[the book] will tell any canoeist or adventurer almost all they need to know." -James Winkel, Saskatchewan History An invaluable resource for paddlers preparing to face the challenges of Canada's old fur trade highway, Canoeing the Churchill is also an exhilarating trek into the past for the "armchair voyageur." With routes for both beginners and experts, Canoeing the Churchill provides practical "on the water advice" for the entire 1,100 km route--from Methy Portage to Cumberland House. Canoeing the Churchill "will introduce the beauty of the north and its rich cultural heritage to readers from all parts of the world." -Keith Goulet, Cumberland House Cree Nation

A nautical chart with a scale of 1:255,000.

The Optimist is the most popular junior sailing class worldwide, with thousands of young people actively racing them and hundreds attending the major events in the class. It has been the nursery for most of the top racing sailors in the world including all the Team GBR gold medallists at the last 2 Olympics (Sir Ben Ainslie, Hannah Mills, Saskia Clark and Giles Scott) - the same will be true for most other countries. Optimist Racing is written for those sailors, parents and coaches who are looking for success in this competitive class. In it you will learn what it takes to win, including how to achieve blistering boatspeed through technique and tuning, perfect boat handling and tactics as well as covering the mental and physical requirements for success. There is also a section for parents and coaches describing how they can best support their young sailors. Originally written by Ben Ainslie's Optimist coach, Phil Slater, this new edition has been completely updated by top international racing coach, Steve Irish, who can be found coaching Optimist and other sailors worldwide. This book is the up-to-date handbook for sailing an Optimist fast.

America's most experienced and renowned sailing instructor has put down in this volume all he knows about his subject. And he has done it in a way that reflects years of searching for and finding the best way to teach sailing. The result is an incomparable book for anyone who wants to become an expert sailor.

In Superyacht Captain, a professional at the zenith of the world's most lavish and exclusive industry gives a rare insight into a career that is entertaining, instructive and at times daunting in its scale. The tale of an ordinary boy whose career takes him on a most extraordinary journey, this book begins with Brendan messing about in boats in a sleepy coastal Australian town, and ends with him becoming one of the most successful and respected superyacht captains in the World - the consummate 'Billionaire's Captain'. Spanning two decades and circling the globe, his story intimately draws readers into the real world of superyachts, their crew and their owners. It is Brendan's love letter to an industry he respects and holds so dear to his heart. It's the story of stepping out and embracing uncertainty - failing, learning and repeating - weaving in in the lessons he's learned as he's progressed from deck hand to captain, Brendan's insights are valuable for anyone leading teams with demanding objectives. Surprisingly humble and self aware, in a world of glitter and extravagance you can see why he's trusted. All of this is told against a backdrop of seemingly impossible glamour at the most extravagant edge of the global wealth spectrum, with plenty of entertaining stories of the superyacht lifestyle. A brilliant read for all, for the superyacht fans, as well as anyone interested in leadership and management techniques from someone at the top of their game, working for those who define the rules of the game.

The essential onboard guide to staying afloat and alive at sea-when you run into trouble

Written by a respected marine journalist with over thirty years of boating experience, this practical guide offers immediate solutions to any number of problems encountered while at sea. Addressing such dangers as fire; taking on water; running aground; losing power, mast, or rudder; man overboard; becoming lost; and extreme weather, the book offers clear guidance on gaining control of the situation, along with easily understandable photos and illustrations. Other key

safety measures, such as having a good understanding of first aid, the Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS), flares and signals, are also described in detail. This handy, waterproof guide would complete any boat's equipment list.Detailed advice for most emergency situationsA must-have reference for all sailors, power boaters, and motor boatersThe author of numerous books in Norwegian, John Winge has cruised all over world

As important as a first-aid kit, "Emergency Companion" is any boater's

first line of defense against managing any mishap or potential disaster at sea.

Chapman is the foundation reference for all boaters and sailors with essential information on boat handing and seamanship skills on coast and inland waters. With three million copies sold, Chapman Piloting & Seamanship is the one comprehensive resource boaters at all levels of experience trust for everything they need to know to set out on the water. It addresses the best traditions of seamanship with cutting-edge practices, gear, and technology. Along with 1500 color photos, charts and drawings, this edition includes: Navigating by day or night in any weather Trailerboating Getting underway or returning to a marina or mooring under power or sail Anchoring and weighing anchor Operating a gas or diesel engine-inboard, outboard, or sterndrive Using radar and communicating by radio Sharing the water with other boats Handling lines and making them fast Reading the weather and keeping your crew safe with the latest advice on safety equipment The 4,200-entry index makes it easy to quickly access any topic, and the glossary and source information directs the reader to vital information on weather, tides, and aids to navigation. Used and recommended by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadrons, and other boating educators, Chapman is today-and has been for more than a century-the boating book of record.

One summer, writer and musician, Jasper Winn set himself an extraordinary task. He would kayak the whole way round Ireland - a thousand miles - camping on remote headlands and islands, carousing in bars and paddling clockwise until he got back where he started. But in the worst Irish summer in living memory the pleasures of idling among seals, fulmars and fishing boats soon gave way to heroic struggles through storm-tossed seas ... and lock-ins playing music in coastal pubs. Circling the country where he grew up, Jasper reflects on life at the very fringes of Ireland, the nature and lore of its seas, and his own eccentric upbringing - sprung from school at age ten and left free to explore the countryside and its traditional life. Charming, quietly epic, and with an irresistible undertow of wit, Paddle is a low-tech adventure that captures the sheer joy of a misty morning on Ireland's coast. As the sun breaks through, you'll be longing to set off too.

The Avon is a great river to dip a paddle into, whether by kayak, canoe or paddleboard. If you are seeking an expedition journey, wanting to just splash about getting wet, or anything in-between, there is something for you here. The riverine wildlife and scenery are always attractive, and at times truly stunning. In the half-century since the Avon was restored as a navigation, the deep channelled waters and the numerous locks, with their white-water interludes, have greened over into precious habitats for a range of flora and fauna. The river flows right through England's past of climactic battles, monasteries, castles, stately homes and the early industry of mills and navigation. The Avon's international fame is, of course, due to its associations with William Shakespeare, and it's impossible for paddlers not to get sucked into a little 'bardolatry' whilst enjoying the river. This book aims to guide paddlers along the Avon and through its many locks and weirs, while also highlighting the river's remarkable natural and historical surrounds.

Through the French Canals has probably tempted more people to explore the beautiful waterways of France than any other book. First published in 1970, it's been the key authoritative title on cruising the French canals ever since. The revised new edition is the essential comprehensive planning guide for anyone wanting to cruise through the French waterways or take their boat from the English Channel through to the Mediterranean via the inland route. It includes: over 50 routes fully described and illustrated, with positions of locks, towns and villages through routes from the English Channel and Atlantic to the Mediterranean, plus distances, and assessment of suitable boats for the canals. It also provides dimensions of locks and operating times, details of bridge heights, canal depths, fuelling points, waterway signals, a guide to the cost of living, shopping and stores, sources of weather information, haltes for overnight stops, and ports de plaisance. As well as new photography, the new edition is updated throughout with new information on local facilities, new haltes and ports de plaisance, new VNF License fees, revisions to cruise hire companies, updated references to holding tanks, the availability of diesel and costs of cruising and much more.

A unique travel guide detailing 50 of the best places, routes and adventures to embark upon under paddle power. See the wilderness from the water, discover ancient sites hidden from paths and roads, or stay at remote wild campsites only accessible by river. Suitable for relative newcomers, but with some more ambitious and demanding routes, adventures include: - Get back to nature on the River Great Ouse – paddle from Bedford’s Victorian embankment out into the wilderness and wild-camp in the middle of nowhere for an awe-inspiring night under the stars - Follow the Whisky Trail – paddle down the River Spey as it winds its way out of the Cairngorms, through the Washing Machine white waters and the Knockando rapids - Travel back in time on the River Stour – explore beautiful Constable Country, largely unchanged for centuries - Leave the shore behind – for the more adventurous paddlers, sea kayaking opens up the entire coastline and Britain's 6,000 islands Each location, route and activity is graded by difficulty, and all the essential information is included, such as the best locations to access the water, stopping points, things to see or do, and places to stay. Packed with gorgeous photography taken throughout the year, and as inspiring as it is practical, this is a travel guide like no other.

"The definitive guide to kayaking the Florida Keys."--Jeff Klinkenberg, St. Petersburg Times

"The author has gone to great lengths to provide the necessary details to make kayaking in the Keys easy."--James Bell, Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge

Spanning the 200-mile stretch of the Florida Keys, this field guide to the entire island chain highlights 50 paddling adventures, many for canoeists as well as kayakers. Trips include short paddles suitable for beginners and children, half-day trips as well as day-long and overnight excursions.
Kathleen Patton provides an overview of the region's environment, describing its terrestrial and marine habitats. She covers equipment needs, safety concerns, weather patterns, and adapting tide tables for specific areas. Trips are arranged geographically, beginning near Miami at the top of the Keys in Biscayne National Park and stretching 73 miles past Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park. Each profile includes directions to the launch site, estimated paddling time, kayak rental availability, a detailed itinerary, and a route map. Icons mark each route's particular strengths: for example, great snorkeling, historical interest, camping, and appropriate trips for canoeists and for children. Patton also directs paddlers to the best reefs, swimming holes, and pristine sandbars for wildlife viewing--birds, manatees, dolphins, tropical reef fish, coral heads, sponges, sea stars, and huge spotted eagle rays.

Clear, concise trip descriptions and detailed maps make "Kayaking the Keys" the most complete guide for paddlers of all ages and abilities who want to explore the only tropical waters in America that are accessible by automobile.
Kathleen Patton is program coordinator for Florida Keys Discovery, a nonprofit community education project.

This is a must-have compact travel guide to the Canal du Midi, a picturesque waterway in Southern France, popular for boating trips and holidays. The Canal du Midi is recognised as one of the most beautiful and popular waterways in Europe. It is an UNESCO world heritage site and attracts many visitors every year. It's widely regarded as the perfect boating region for wine tasting, sightseeing at medieval villages and cities, and visiting cafes and restaurants. This up-to-date, comprehensive travel guide covers all the practical information and sightseeing opportunities boaters need to know about during their holiday on the canal, including: -Highlights and itinerary for Canal du Midi trips for easy planning -Insider travel tips for your boating holiday: where to stop off, sightseeing highlights, recommended restaurants to visit along the way -Essential practical nautical information such as how and where to charter, locks, bridges and berths and so on -Concise English-French dictionary with the most important vocab -Fantastic photography and useful route maps

This is the story of college-dropout John Kretschmer's quixotic voyage to retrace the route of the clipper ships, from New York to San Francisco by way of Cape Horn. This 'doubling the Horn', as it was called, was a formidable challenge to ships exceeding two hundred feet in length, as they routinely battled headwinds of fifty knots and mountainous seas. Kretschmer and crew took on the Horn in a 32-foot sloop. This is his chronicle of that voyage.

For readers who relish the image of clinging to a sinking makeshift raft while fighting off sword-wielding and delirious mutineers wrenching the last cask of water from a sailor's sun-scorched hands (while sharks circle in famished anticipation), "Shipwrecked! Adventures and Disasters at Sea" is an irresistible read. A heady voyage through human suffering at the hands of unforgiving oceans, cruel captains, and implacable fate, this latest collection of Evan Balkan's impeccably researched true adventures details 14 major maritime disasters. Included are such legendary stories as the 1629 maiden voyage of the "Batavia" that ended in mutiny and murder, and the dramatic destruction of the majestic three-masted barquentine "Endurance" in ice-clogged Antarctic waters in 1912. A vast spectrum of human emotion and activity is featured in these exciting profiles, from deadly incompetence and brutish cannibalism to surprising self-sacrifice and quiet heroism.

With over two-thirds of the globe covered by water, the ability to navigate safely and quickly across the oceans has been crucial throughout human history. As seafarers attempted longer and longer voyages from the sixteenth century onwards in search of profit and new lands, the tools of navigation became ever more sophisticated. The development of instruments over the last five hundred years has seen some revolutionary changes, spurred on by the threat of disaster at sea and the possibility of huge rewards from successful voyages. As this book shows, the solution of the infamous longitude problem, the extraordinary impact of satellite positioning and other advances in navigation have successfully brought together seafarers, artisans and scientists in search of better ways of getting from A to B and back again.

The ultimate guide to paddling whitewater in the western Carolinas, Carolina Whitewater has guided paddlers to the best creeks and rivers in the Tar Heel and Palmetto states for over 30 years.Detailed creek and river profiles include: Topographic-based maps Shuttle directions Gauge locations Kayakers and canoeists will find expanded and updated information for the classic rivers, like the Nolichucky, Nantahala, and French Broad, as well as for several new steep runs, such as Rockhouse Creek, Hurricane Creek, the Gragg Prong, and Big Hungry River. You'll also get vital information on clubs and organizations, state water trails, and national and scenic rivers. Waterway data for each run includes: Class of difficulty Length of the run Time to paddle Water level needed to paddle Permits required (if any) Gradient of each run Ratings for scenery David and Bob Benner have been paddling the Carolinas for decades. David resides in Morganton, NC. Bob Benner is retired and also lives in Morganton.

The River Thames Book, now in its seventh edition, is the best-selling guide to the non-tidal Thames from Teddington to its source in Gloucestershire. This complete guide covers the Barrier to Cricklade with the River Wey, Basingstoke Canal and the Kennet & Avon Canal to Great Bedwyn. Chris Cove-Smith's updated text describes the navigation with support of clear and detailed mapping. The River Thames Book also lists in exhaustive detail the facilities to be found along each section of the navigation.

Now in its sixth edition, this must-have guide for aspiring Yachtmasters covers the essentials of the RYA syllabus and provides new tips on exam tactics. Since the first edition was published, Pass Your Yachtmaster has helped thousands of students through their shore-based and practical Yachtmaster course. Concise and comprehensive, this crammer covers all the essentials of the RYA syllabus, arranged in bite-size chunks to make revision easier and brought fully up to date in this sixth edition. Throughout, the theory is set in a practical seagoing perspective, and helpful hints on exam tactics are provided too. And to relieve the tension of all that swotting, each section is enlivened with Mike Peyton's best-loved cartoons. "A wealth of information, simply laid out."--Cruising

In the heartland of America rise the Ozark Mountains, teeming with cascading, free-flowing streams. Situated astride the Missouri/Arkansas border, the Ozarks represent a canoeing and kayaking wonderland. Still a comprehensive, accurate and readable guide, but now with a new design and format, "A Canoeing & Kayaking Guide to the Ozarks (formerly" Ozark Whitewater) catalogs the varied rivers of the region. Inside are updated descriptions of all the classic rivers, including the Buffalo National and Little Missouri, as well as exciting new reports of today's steep creek runs: Bryant, Turkey, and many others. This guide is the definitive sourcebook for Ozark river sport.

The Honourable Mrs Victor Bruce: record-breaking racing motorist; speedboat racer; pioneering aviator and businesswoman - remarkable achievements for a woman of the 1920s and '30s. Mildred Bruce enjoyed a privileged background that allowed her to search for thrills beyond the bounds of most female contemporaries. She raced against the greats at Brooklands, drove 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle and won the first ladies' prize at the Monte Carlo Rally. Whilst Amy Johnson was receiving global acclaim for her flight to Australia, Mildred learned to fly, and a mere eight weeks later she embarked on a round-the-world flight, becoming the first person to fly solo from the UK to Japan. Captured by brigands and feted by the Siamese, Japanese and Americans, she survived several crashes with body and spirit intact, and became a glittering aviation celebrity on her return. A thoroughly modern woman, she pushed similar boundaries in her unconventional love life and later became Britain's first female airline entrepreneur. This is the story of a charismatic woman who defied the conventions of her time, and loved living life in the fast lane.