High Latitude Sailing: Self-sufficient sailing techniques for cold waters and winter seasons

Sailing in cold waters can be challenging but rewarding. This book provides practical advice, stunning photography, and first-hand accounts from experts to help you prepare for your voyages. It covers topics such as preparing yourself and your boat, sailing in ice, safety, communication, weather, anchoring, mooring, clothes, and cruising areas. Whether you're tackling the North-West Passage or exploring Antarctica, this book is essential for all sailors preparing for enjoyable and safe sailing in cold waters.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 03 September 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Sailing in cold waters presents a unique and challenging adventure, but it also yields immense rewards. As you venture into the high latitudes, you encounter some of the world's last remaining wildernesses, untouched by human civilization. However, climate change has opened up these regions to small boats, allowing sailors to explore further afield in search of thrilling experiences.

In this comprehensive book, renowned experts provide practical advice, stunning photography, and firsthand accounts of voyages across the icy expanses. They cover essential topics such as preparing yourself, your boat, sailing in ice, safety, communication, weather, anchoring, mooring, clothing, and cruising areas. Whether you aspire to tackle the treacherous North-West Passage aboard your yacht or embark on a more modest voyage, this book is a valuable resource for all sailors seeking to enjoy and ensure safe sailing in cold waters.

Preparing Yourself:
Good routines, risk assessment, and crew preparation are crucial for a successful sailing expedition in cold waters. Experts offer valuable insights on developing effective routines, ensuring your crew is well-trained and equipped, and managing potential risks. They discuss the importance of maintaining good health and hygiene, dealing with extreme weather conditions, and handling emergencies.

Preparing Your Boat:
A well-designed and equipped boat is essential for a safe and enjoyable sailing experience in cold waters. Experts provide detailed information on boat design, heating, engine, steering, anchors, and electrics. They discuss the importance of selecting the right boat for your expedition, ensuring it is properly maintained, and equipped with the necessary safety equipment.

Sailing in Ice:
Navigating through ice-covered waters requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Experts offer guidance on instrumentation, charts, and strategies for dealing with potential hazards. They discuss the use of ice axes, crampons, and other ice-specific equipment, as well as the importance of maintaining situational awareness and following safe navigation practices.

Safety:
Safety is of paramount importance when sailing in cold waters. Experts address various concerns, including man-overboard (MOB) situations, polar bears, glaciers, and dinghy procedures. They provide practical advice on preventing accidents, responding to emergencies, and maintaining a safe distance from wildlife.

Communication:
Effective communication is crucial in remote and isolated sailing areas. Experts discuss the use of VHF, satellite, and SSB radios, as well as other communication tools. They emphasize the importance of maintaining communication with other vessels, shore stations, and emergency services, and sharing vital information during critical situations.

Weather:
Understanding weather patterns and interpreting GRIB files and ice charts is essential for safe sailing in cold waters. Experts provide detailed explanations on weather forecasting, meteorology, and navigation in adverse conditions. They discuss the use of weather instruments, the interpretation of weather data, and the strategies for navigating in challenging weather scenarios.

Anchoring and Mooring:
Anchoring and mooring in cold waters require careful planning and execution. Experts offer guidance on selecting the appropriate types and numbers of anchors and mooring lines, as well as the techniques for securing your boat in icy conditions. They discuss the importance of maintaining a safe distance from icebergs and other hazards, and the techniques for anchoring in shallow and unstable waters.

Clothing:
Appropriate clothing is crucial for comfort and safety in cold waters. Experts discuss the three-layer principle, which involves layering warm, insulating, and waterproof clothing to protect against the harsh elements. They recommend specific clothing items for different weather conditions, and the importance of maintaining good hygiene and preventing hypothermia.

Cruising Areas:
Cold waters offer a wide range of cruising areas, each with its unique attractions and challenges. Experts provide insights on popular cruising areas such as Svalbard, Antarctica, South Georgia, and many more. They discuss the unique geographical features, wildlife, and cultural experiences you can encounter, as well as the logistics and planning required for a successful expedition.

Whether you are an experienced sailor or a novice looking to embark on your first adventure in cold waters, this book is an invaluable resource. It provides you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to tackle the challenges and enjoy the rewards of sailing in these awe-inspiring environments. So, grab your copy, set sail, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of cold-water sailing.

Weight: 764g
Dimension: 178 x 254 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472973276