Water Sports

Vassos Alexander found solace and distraction swimming in the Thames during a difficult summer, and was bitten by the bug. Now he can't pass a body of water without wanting to jump in. Told through the story of training for a solo Channel swim, Swimmingly takes you on a journey across the world from Bournemouth beach to San Francisco Bay. Vassos discovers that outdoor swimming is not about being the fastest or the best, it's about finding that little bit of magic in every stroke.

Gender issues are stark at sea. Historically a ship’s crew is all male, and although vessels are referred to as ‘she’, women’s contributions to sailing have been largely ignored, if not actively opposed. Today’s sailing legends such as Tracy Edwards and Ellen MacArthur compete with men on equal terms, but they stand on the shoulders of many women before them, who had to challenge preconceptions, prejudice and even the law in their wish to sail.

The sport of surfing has a mystique and allure that has transformed many of these icons into mythical figures. Surfer Stories brings them together in one definitive collection that will appeal to those who surf and those who don’t!

To buy your first boat, you must ask yourself a number of questions like assessing your needs and budget, determining your boating goals, considering types of boats, and setting a realistic budget. Therefore, in reading this book, you will be guided in exploring different types of boats, understanding boat features and options, assessing whether you want to purchase a new vs. used boat, understanding ownership costs, and finding the right boat for yourself and your family. You will be guided as to how to inspect and sea-trial your potential boat and negotiate the price.

This audiobook is designed to assist you in understanding new concepts and the unique terminology that is used in the world of boating. It is an excellent starting point for those undertaking their first boating experience in order to make sense of the first few days on board, or as a handy reference tool for those returning to the sport after time away from it.

The Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS) are revised and published every four years by World Sailing, the international authority for the sport. This handy guide audiobook is a simplified view of the basic racing rules and has been updated to reflect the Racing Rules of Sailing 2025-2028.

No sea voyage, whether long or short, offshore or within sight of land, should go ahead without adequate planning and this audiobook is your perfect companion to help you prepare thoroughly before setting off. RYA Passage Planning (A-G69) will take you through all you need to know and allow you to work through some examples of different passages. This will show you what you might need to think about on the range of different journeys you may undertake.

RYA Yacht Sailing Techniques describes the basic skills that a skipper and crew require to enjoy their cruising in good conditions. It covers the layout and equipment on a small to medium-sized yacht, the essential safety information that all need to know before getting under way, basic maintenance, manoeuvring in a marina, handling under sail, anchoring and mooring, and, of course, man overboard rescue strategy.

The growth of foiling is the most exciting thing to happen to dinghy sailing and windsurfing in recent years. As well as specialist foiling boats and boards, conversion kits have brought fast, flying fun to sailors seeking speed.

This handy book for the leisure user is a quick-reference guide to radio procedures (including Urgency, Safety, and Distress messaging); installing and maintaining a VHF radio; the licensing requirements, and GMDSS including Navtex.