Drawn from over 35 years of the author`s own experiences, this book is packed with expert wisdom and hand-holding guidance on every aspect of owning, equipping, maintaining, sailing, and of course, enjoying your first boat. Topics covered include: choice of boat, insurance, assessing (and costing) moorings and berths, navigation and safety equipment, domestic equipment (galley, bedding, clothing, etc), navigation (including in fog), manoeuvring in close spaces, sources of weather information and forecasts, responsibilities towards crew, catering and cooking, maintenance advice (daily tips, winterising, engine servicing, fitting out for spring, etc), paperwork (including customs forms), dealing with emergencies and more.