KIRKUS REVIEW
A debut book provides a practical sailing guide to world circumnavigation.
This is the volume that the authors wished they had before setting off on their around-the-world sailing adventure. It is, in essence, a way of inspiring and preparing other sailors to make a journey that many would consider overly daunting. The approach is positive from the outset, so much so that exclamation points litter the text: “Natural beauty is everywhere!” “Wildlife is outstanding!” “The Adventure of a Lifetime!” This is a motivational piece of writing that oozes enthusiasm throughout. But it also wastes no time in tackling the realities of an around-the-world trip in comparison to that of a “day sail on the bay”: rougher conditions, longer passages, and forays at night and farther from shore, among other new challenges. The opening eight pages offer a useful to-do list that covers selecting a route; honing certain skills, such as anchoring technique and electronic seamanship; organizing food and provisioning; and deciding whether to join a cruising rally. This is solid, avuncular advice, set out in a clear, accessible manner. The guide then offers a breakdown of the major ports of call, including detailed maps and color photography. The authors capture a vivid sense of each location with sections on shoreside services, things to do, expected conditions, and valuable nuggets of information that could prove lifesaving, such as “Beware of the risk of saltwater crocodiles (‘sal-ties’), which frequently attack and kill people swimming within their territory. Heed the warnings, and don’t swim in near-shore waters.” The remainder of the guide provides an itinerary sample and discusses choosing a route, navigating by Google Maps, understanding the dangers of piracy, and setting crew expectations. It finishes with suggested cruising guides and charts. The authors employ a buoyant and friendly writing style, often bordering on folksy: “As you can see, the enormous variety of experiences, the breathtaking vistas, and the wonder of wildlife keep us cruising.” This, however, does not mean that the prose should not be taken seriously, as it remains characterful, comprehensive, and professional. Holding the power to excite and inform, this densely packed and colorful book should prove inspirational for anyone with an interest in sailing and world travel.
A practical, accessible, and fun guide to planning the sailing adventure of a lifetime.
