• Click here to order the Instant Library.

Here is the ultimate collection of the Dashews’ work. Four books (3130 combined pages with more than 4000 photos and drawings) along with 3 DVDs (5+ hours) and 2 music CDs. All this for just $299 (a savings of over $50).

Steve and Linda’s books and DVDs have helped thousands of sailors around the world turn their cruising dreams into reality. They cover every aspect of purchasing, equipping, and sailing the right boat for your needs and budget.

The Instant Library gives you all four books along with three DVDs plus two bonus music CDs:

• Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia (1232 pages)
• Mariners Weather Handbook: A Guide to Forecasting and Tactics (594 pages)
• Practical Seamanship: Essential Skills for the Modern Sailor (644 pages)
• Surviving the Storm: Coastal & Offshore Tactics (672 pages)
• Offshore Voyaging DVD Series (3 DVDs, over 5 hours of cruising video from all over the world)
• Music for Cruising CD
• Tradewinds High CD

The Instant Library delivers the knowledge necessary for safe, comfortable, and enjoyable cruising. We back this up with a 90-day no-questions-asked guarantee. Order the Instant Library today for a package price of just $299! ]]> http://setsail.com/the-instant-library/feed/ 0 http://setsail.com/offshore-cruising-encyclopedia/ http://setsail.com/offshore-cruising-encyclopedia/#comments Tue, 10 Mar 2009 17:03:20 +0000 admin http://setsail.com/?p=2351

• Click here to order Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia.

Jam-packed into 1232 pages is the latest information on 2200 subjects with 2500 detailed illustrations. Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia by Steve & Linda Dashew brings together in one concise, easy-to-use volume all the info you need to make the right decisions (and avoid the wrong ones) for your own style of cruising.

We’ve posted a video to tell you more about this book. You can also find more info by clicking on one of the links below.

More info:

• Check out the Table of Contents.
• Browse the entire Index.
• Here are some sample chapters: Dodgers, Finding Crew, and Spar Engineering.
• Read the reviews.
• Read Steve & Linda’s bio.
• All our books are backed up by a 90-day unconditional guarantee as well as a lifetime saltwater guarantee.

• Click here to order Practical Seamanship.

632 pages of exhaustive detail on practically every aspect of seamanship, both traditional and modern. “A graduate course in going to sea…Will shave 10 to 20 years off your learning curve.” (Sailing magazine)

We’ve posted a video to tell you more about this book. You can also find more info by clicking on one of the links below.

More info:

• Check out the Table of Contents.
• Browse the entire Index.
• Here are some sample chapters: Hurricane at Anchor, Jibing the Main, and Running Aground.
• Read the reviews.
• Read Steve & Linda’s bio.
• All our books are backed up by a 90-day unconditional guarantee as well as a lifetime saltwater guarantee.

• Click here to order Mariners Weather Handbook.

The book that shows you how to use weather to your advantage, at home and offshore. “Mariner’s Weather Handbook does for skippers at sea what the venerable Joy of Cooking does for cooks – it provides a complete and exhaustive guide to the basics of every aspect of weather you are likely to meet when cruising.” (Bluewater Sailing magazine)

We’ve posted a video to tell you more about this book. You can also find more info by clicking on one of the links below.

More info:

• Check out the Table of Contents.
• Browse the entire Index.
• Here are some sample chapters: Onboard Prediction, Tropical Cyclone/Dangerous Semicircle, and Queen’s Birthday Storm.
• Read the reviews.
• Read Steve & Linda’s bio.
• All our books are backed up by a 90-day unconditional guarantee as well as a lifetime saltwater guarantee.

• Click here to order Surviving the Storm.

The most detailed manual on heavy weather sailing ever assembled. Based on 70 interviews with survivors of extreme weather. With 560 spectacular photos and informative illustrations. “…An in-depth and long-needed examination of storm tactics and heavy-weather gear for modern boats.” (Sail magazine)

We’ve posted a video to tell you more about this book. You can also find more info by clicking on one of the links below.

More info:

• Check out the Table of Contents.
• Browse the entire Index.
• Here are some sample chapters: Introduction, Preparing for Heavy Weather, and Motorsailing in an Ultimate Storm.
• Read the reviews.
• Read Steve & Linda’s bio.
• All our books are backed up by a 90-day unconditional guarantee as well as a lifetime saltwater guarantee.

“Far and away the finest introduction to boats and cruising we’ve ever seen.” Latitude 38 (USA)

“This comprehensive resource is both informative and useful for the crising boater…and the text is written in a clearly accessible narrative style.” Power & Motoryacht (USA)

“Vital for anybody planning to take up ocean voyaging as a lifestyle…Encapsulates a lifetime of cruising experience…Dipping into any section at random reveals a wealth of practical “hands-on” information which any cruiser would find valuable…An outstandingly detailed volume for sailors who are serious about their world cruise.” Cruising Helmsman (Australia)

“A complete source of inventive cruising tips and sea stories, culled from one liveaboard family’s vast cruising experience…all covered in an enjoyable narrative style.” Lakeland Boating (USA)

“The single most useful text available anywhere for sailors who are outfitting a boat for voyaging — full of good ideas, educated opinions, ingenious solutions, useful charts and tables, and world cruising savvy.” Blue Water Sailing (USA)

“Cruising bible…indispensable.” Boat International

“Comprehensive cruising advice…an absolute compendium of concise, definitive information for cruising sailors. The second edition, refined and updated from the first, contains so much information it defies a quick description. For thoroughness…the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia is unparalleled. For those who cruise there is not another book on the market as comprehensive as this one.” Practical Sailor (USA)

“This…second edition…is a good source…for people interested in pursuing the voyaging lifestyle. At 1,200 pages…the second version is even more in-depth than the first edition. Put simply, it includes discussions on just about everything from light displacement hull design to keeping your kids happy on long passages.” Ocean Navigator (USA)

“Comprehensive and utterly fascinating, this rather expensive doorstop of a book, now in its second edition, would be a superb reference book for anyone planning a long cruise. The authors have cruised all over the world and Steve Dashew’s designs, notably the speedy Deerfoot and Sundeer, are famous for being full of innovation that stretches (unusually) to the genuine practicalities of living on and maintaining a yacht. If you’ve ever wanted to consult the views of an expert, a yacht designer with real hands-on experience at the sharp end, this book is a sort of detailed consultation. A whacking 1,200 pages are filled with information on everything from choosing the right propeller, davits, or charging system to sea berths and upholstery. And every conceivable subject in between.” Yachting World (United Kingdom)

“A bible for ocean cruising people.” Varen: Maandblad Voor de Watersport (Belgium)

“…a remarkable book.The Dashews are an American couple with a wealth of experience, not just in cruising under sail, but in running a successful yacht design and construction company (Sundeer Yachts)…. this is a comprehensive view of modern cruising, and modern yachts, gear, and equipment, written by an engineer who has had first hand experience with much of the gear, either in his own boats, or in yachts he’s been responsible for building for well heeled customers. It’s a modern equivalent to the late Eric Hiscock’s Cruising Under Sail, combining practical knowledge and advice on international cruising with comprehensive information on equipment options.”

“Steve does advance his own philosophy of what makes a good cruising boat, but this doesn’t detract from what really is an encyclopedic work on modern yachting gear and systems, and even includes a sample building contract. The writing includes numerous references to the Dashew’s own cruising experiences with their children, and is very readable, copiously illustrated…and has a great index. I was impressed with the Dashews’ penchant for well researched, modern and technically sound solutions to a range of common cruising problems when I met them cruising in the late 70’s. They’ve just returned to the US from a French Polynesian cruise, so they are both experienced, and still current. At 1232 pages, and 7cm thick, Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia is something of a tome, but well worth consulting if you cruise, are fitting out to cruise, or intend to have a boat built for cruising.” Modern Boating (Australia)

“We have discovered the most trendsetting and complete guide for long distance sailors in the USA. The husband-and-wife sailing team Linda and Steve Dashew, together good for more than 175,000 nautical cruising miles, are responsible for putting together this most thorough and lively work. This new 2nd edition contains literally anything and everything you would ever want to know about cruising. In these 1232 Pages there are some 2200 issues presented with 2500 photos and detailed illustrations to boot. Two kilos of pure knowledge from the experts will expand your know-how on countless subjects such as yacht design, finishing and interiors both above and below deck, construction, sails and towing, motortechnics, forward stowing, electronics, modern communications, safety, life on board, sailing locations, and still much much more. This book is exceptionally complete, true to life, and absolutely a recommendation for yourself or as a gift for your partner.” Zeilen (Netherlands)

“This is surely the finest, most complete, authoritative and, above all, most human among the guides to the serious side of ocean voyaging and local cruising. The Dashews share knowledge they have collected over years of sailing and designing their own yachts, and every bit of it will enhance our safety and enjoyment aboard. My hat is off to the authors for a great accomplishment.” Yachting (USA)

“Everything you’ll ever need to know about offshore cruising from people who have been there. A true encyclopedia built on first-hand knowledge.” Motor Boating and Sailing (USA)

“Encyclopedia is the right word for this huge reference book, which for years will be a standard guide for sailors preparing to go cruising. The Dashews are vastly experienced…they know what it takes to live comfortably and safely aboard a yacht, both at sea and in the marina. Steve is a skilled engineer, rigger, and boatbuilder who has borrowed from the best of traditional and modern yacht design to produce some excellent seagoing boats. Linda has studied all the possibilities of cabin arrangements and designed handsome, functional interiors. Together they have sailed thousands of miles, lived aboard for years at a time, created many wonderful yachts, and written this important book.” John Rousmaniere, author of The Annapolis Book of Seamanship; Fastnet, Force 10; and other books.

“This is a time of great change in sailing design and technology, yet the most important elements of the sport remain the same — seaworthy design, sound construction, and good seamanship. Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia effectively relates the necessities to the possibilities, and in doing so will prove itself a valuable reference for serious cruising.” Sailing World (USA)

“Steve and Linda Dashew are the Leo Tolstoys of sailing books. Their recently published Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia, Second Edition, is not only very long — 1232 pages, with more than 2500 drawings and illustrations — but it’s also very good. Lifelong sailors with nearly 200,000 ocean miles on a variety of boats — and often with children — they have the on-the-water experience to write with authority. Having also been involved in the design and/or building process of more than 50 large cruising boats around the world, they’ve also got a good handle on the technical aspects.

The Dashews’ tome works in three distinct ways. First, it’s a fine reference work from which to get a good background on every conceivable aspect of cruising boats from the bottom of the keel to the top of the mast. Everything from the compressive yields of rudder bearings to bunk dimensions to price comparisons of different hull materials. Secondly, there is sensible advice on a world of topics of interest to cruisers — such as the pros and cons of different styles and types of boats, rigs, anchors, and such; on the possibilities of making money while cruising; on how to get along with locals, and so forth. Thirdly, many of the encyclopedia’s topics are backed with anecdotal stories from the Dashews’ seemingly unlimited number of cruising friends and acquaintances. As such, The Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia makes for enjoyable bedtime reading for non-technical sailors, too…If you’re new to sailing or are interested in increasing both your theoretical and practical knowledge of all aspects of cruising, we can’t imagine why you wouldn’t purchase the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia.

“The most beautiful island in the world is Fatu Hiva in the Marquesas, according to Steve and Linda Dashew, sailors who have gone everywhere worth going in a sailboat. I used to think, on the basis of what I read, that Moorea held that honor, and recently someone nominated Bora Bora. So now, instead of wanting to go to Moorea and Bora Bora, I want to see Fatu Hiva. This moves my dream a few hundred miles northeast in the South Pacific, but I remain as unlikely as ever to see them. For the moment we can all read about Fatu Hiva and a thousand other things in the Dashews’ marvelous book, Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia. They’ve seen and done everything worth doing in a boat, and now they’re ready to share it with you. The book…will become the bible of blue-water cruising. If you’re planning to sail around the world or some major portion thereof, don’t leave home without digesting their advice. And if you’re an armchair sailor, you can still enjoy this readable book and learn from its nine comprehensive sections.” Boating (USA)

“Modern equivalent of Eric Hiscock’s work; enough practical advice to last a long, long time.” Wooden Boat (USA)

“The Dashews stress the interrelation of…decisions and gives the affects the other. Clearly, the intent is to help boat owners find and use the best ideas for their own situation.” Cruising World (USA)

“This is a book of superlatives…it will likely replace four books in your library…obviously of great value for any owner who wants to upgrade any system…recommendations are extremely complete.” Sailing Canada

Marine Industry Reviews

“If you are equipping, buying, or building a boat the Dashew’s reference work will prove invaluable. Every serious sailor ought to have this book.” Chuck Paine, yacht designer

“The Dashews’ book is indispensable to the point where I keep one copy in my office and another on my boat.” Robert Perry, yacht designer

“This book is the most comprehensive and sound cruising reference yet produced. Anyone with an open mind and a sensible”up-to-date” approach would soon regard it as THE indispensable Îvade mecum, “Hiscock for the year 2000.” Angelo Lavranos, yacht designer

“…a best seller for years to come. A real service to the sailing group.” Bill Garden, yacht designer

“Your new Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia is a must for the cruising yachtsman. Not withstanding that Offshore is written with the sailor in mind, I believe it will be a vast source of knowledge to the offshore motoryacht owner as well. Thanks for a greatly needed publication.” David Fraser, President, David Fraser Inc. Yacht and Ship Brokers

“Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia, with a refreshingly candid style, manages to unclutter an overwhelming array of practical information. This book is essential to decision making concerning the cruising lifestyle and related yacht systems…balanced with alternate points of view demonstrating many logical variations for the same results.” Bob Williams. Sea Air Land Technologies

“Reading Steve Dashew’s book Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia explained what I had seen with my eyes, felt with my hands, and sensed up through my arse riding S/V Jean Marie around this ball we live on. If you don’t have Dashew’s book, get it and read it – it is by far the most comprehensive and authoritative tome on the subject of cruising yachts available today. It seems like most of today’s cruising authors have either strong technical backgrounds, and little practical experience, or vice-versa. Dashew and his savvy wife have both. For a serious cruiser, his books are not just for reading, they are for studying and reference. I am in mine on a weekly basis.” Circumnavigator Tom Service – S/V Jean Marie

Reader Reviews

“First, thanks for all the terrific info in the ‘Encyclopedia’ – it’s making my life much easier in getting started in the sailing life.” D.M., via e-mail

“Thank you for the Cruising Encyclopedia…fantastic.” L. B., Perth, Western Australia

“I have owned a copy of your original Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia for several years and refer to it constantly. I have grown to respect your perspective and advice…Thanks for a great publication.” R.G., Baja, Mexico

“One of the best books I have seen on the subject.” E.L, via e-mail

“I enjoyed reading the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia so much… I have 100’s of books about sailing…and I have many years of sailing experience. I truly believe that only (this book) can teach me something I didn’t already know!” P.B., via e-mail

“It’s a hit and will be very useful”. C.D., via e-mail

“Great job on its contents and construction – first class!” Bill, via e-mail

“The book is fantastic.” O.S., via e-mail

“An amazing book.” J.W., via e-mail

“We have the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and the Mariner’s Weather Handbook, as well as the Dashew Offshore video …and have enjoyed them immensely.” M.D., via e-mial

“I was fortunate enough to receive both the Encyclopedia and Surviving the Storm for X-mas. Yea me. Both a hugely informative and exceptionally well done, my complements…Thanks for your time and expertise.” E.S., Marina del Rey, CA, USA

“I recently bought the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia. As I am a total novice in the world of cruising, the book turned up to be a powerful tool in the process of gaining knowledge in the field.” L.Y., Israel

“I constantly enjoy the Offshore Encyclopedia, finding good advice on almost any question I have.” E.B., Sweden

“Thank you. The Offshore Cuising Book is great…I couldn’t put it down last night.” R.A., Westlake Village, CA, USA

“Your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia has proven invaluable during the refit (of our Westsail 42).” J. & D.K., by e-mail

“Last year I read your O.C.E. and have just got into Surviving the Storm, both excellent works – thank you. They were worth 2X the price, as they helped me start to put some of the art of design into some perspective of reality which I am trying to apply to my proposed use.” D.H., Nashville, TN, USA

“Just bought your encyclopedia for cruising and finding it very useful. Just having my own 55 footer built in Australia in aluminium so finding lots of good comments I can use.” J.W., Australia, by e-mail

“Rreally enjoying the Cruising Encyclopedia…Great information!” G. and C.S., by e-mail

“I am about 1/3 through your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia…You all produce an awesome product! Congratulations.” B. and L.K., by e-mail

“Thank you and keep up the good work. Your book is invaluable and has given us the confidence to follow our dream.” M. and S.R., by e-mail

“I am following your book as a guide (maybe I should say bible, as I suspect many others are also).” B.F., Palm Beach Gardens, FL

“I received the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia together with the Dashew Offshore Video. I«ve been reading and watching with great interest. Oh, what great information it is.” S.W., Gšteborg, Sweden

“A quick e-mail to let you know how much I appreciate your books. I own the Offshore Cruising Encylopedia and The Mariners Weather Handbook. I used both books extensively in preparation for a first offshore voyage (New York – Bermuda – New York) in my Catalina 42 MkII. Although I have done the trip before as a crewmember on other boats, this offshore trip was a first as skipper of my own boat and, as you know, it introduces a whole new set of responsibilities. I found the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia to be a tremendous source of information on equipment and preparation (I added an inner forestay and running backstays to my production sloop)…My congratulations on your first-class books. I can only wonder about the amount of research and effort that goes into them.” M.Y., Port Washington, NY,

“I found the book interesting, informative, and, by far, the most authoritatively written compendium of marine information I have ever read.” D.E., Newport Beach, CA

“I am reading your book and would like to express my compliments on the thoroughness.” A.T., Houston, TX,

“By the way, I have your encyclopedia on CD and book. Love it. I look through it before I start any project to get your perspective.” G.W., Nevada City, CA,

“I’ve loved reading and re-reading your Cruising Encyclopedia, and I’m convinced by a number of the approaches you’ve taken…” X.L., by e-mail

“…A fantastic guideline for sailors…(with) all kinds of tips and safety issues (which) we put on our 37ft sailboat.” P.S., West-Graftdijk, Holland

“…Surpasses all my expectations.” C.S, Gauteng, South Africa

“Via this e-mail I want to thank you folks for writing the Encyclopedia and the Weather Handbook. Both have been of great value from the moment I bought them…” H.V., Holland

“I have your very very informative book…Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia edition 2, a really fantastic book…” M.A., Australia

“I am truly delighted with it – it is magnificent, and I wish I had ordered the CD-ROM as well…I look forward to many evenings of wonderful reading and planning. Thank you for such a wonderful book – I shall treasure it.” T.M., Suva, Fiji Islands

“Thank you for making important contributions to the art of cruising. I get so much useful information from watching your (Dashew Offshore Video) tapes.” J.D., North Massapequa, NY, USA

“I am very happy with the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and CD format. If the weather book is half the quality I’ll still be happy. The CD format is something new to me but works very well and is much more portable.” E.W., Antananarivo, Madagascar

“I have your Encyclopedia…we call it the Bible in my house.” B.C., by e-mail

“Have the Cruising Encyclopedia and enjoy it immensely.” J.M., Kansas City, MO, USA

“Keep up the great service to the cruising community. Just ordered the Weather Handbook. If it is as complete and well done as the Enclycopedia it will be studied and read and read and read.” K.M., Bay St. Louis, MS, USA

“I very much enjoyed your Encyclopedia…” R.D., by e-mail

“Your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia was a great help in my cruise last year.” J.K, San Francisco, CA, USA

“Your Encyclopedia is very useful in our preparation for a 5 to 10 year cruise.” G.W., Blauwbergstrand, South Africa

“Have now purchased and read both Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and Mariner’s Weather Handbook. Please pass on to the Dashews our appreciation for two great books – they are now considered the foundation of our cruising library, and we have read everything we could find over the past years.” T.F., Toronto, ON, Canada

“I received and read both Mariner’s Weather Handbook and Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia cover-to-cover in a matter of a few weeks. Great books!! They were both very informative and extremely interesting. I very much enjoyed the sections which included personal accounts…Both books will make a wonderful addition to my home reference library. Thank you!!” T.D, Italy

“Received your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia Second Edition for Christmas…and I cannot stop reading it.” D.F., by e-mail

“Your ad should read ‘Buy the Book First–Before You Buy the Boat.’ Being new to boating 6 months I did it the other way. I bought the boat–and was in the process of ripping it to pieces when I bought your book. What an eye opener.” D.J., Perth, Australia

“I call it (no blasphemy intended) the cruising bible.” K.H., Long Beach, CA, USA

“…An excellent book, full of useful tips and ideas.” C.B., Australia

“I received the book and it’s everything as advertised and then some. I really enjoy the no nonsense make up your own mind approach, and my wife is suffering late nights with the bedside light on.” M.S., Knysna, South Africa

“We are from Australia and have purchased your 2nd edition CruisingEncyclopedia. We have read it a million times as we are in the process of refitting a Boden 42ft steel ketch and are looking forward to the cruising lifestyle with our two small children in the new year.” L.H., Australia

“I want to congratulate you on a very informative piece of work, the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia.Thank you for your work in bringing this book to the public.” R.T., by e-mail

“We have received the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and the two-hour Dashew Offshore Video. Congratulations for those products! They are truly very useful to us.” R.C., Barcelona, Spain

“(My husband) reads it everytime he has a chance. He finds it very informative and helpful. He is delighted with it!” C.S., South Africa

“I received your…Encyclopedia in the post last week.(all the way to Tasmania) Since than I have been transfixed by its scope, readibility, and your sheer design audacity.” J.G., Australia

“Having (not yet completely) read your Cruising Encyclopedia I was really fascinated by the amount of in-depth knowledge. Moreover, it was fun to read it! Congratulations!” A.B., Germany

“Your sailing encylopedia sure is a wealth of knowledge.” T.M., Fairbanks, AK, USA

“I am a happy owner of your OCE. Whenever there’s a question, I check the OCE and I’ll have an answer. It’s a fantastic source of information !” J.K., Denmark

“…An incredible achievement. My compliments to you all…a true labor of love and dedication.” D.N., by e-mail

“A fantastic book…” C.L., Sweden

“Thank you for writing your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia – II. We are in the process of overhauling and outfitting our CSY-44 S/V Jean Marie for our second circumnavigation (west about via Cape Horn & Suez). We recommend or reference OCE-II almost on a daily basis…As the ombudspersons for Blue Water Insurance (largest provider of two-crew yacht insurance in North America) we have recommended your book to the readers of our newsletter.” T.S., St. Petersburg, FL, USA

“…I have found your books and videos an invaluable tool in helping me determine what I need to go cruising. THANK YOU! Your Cruising Encyclopedia even now sits open on my coffee table, as I refer to the more technical aspects (hull design, materials, rigging) of learning what sort of boat will best suit my needs…” A.B., by e-mail

“What I appreciate most is that it acts like a catalyst for new ideas, or when the mind is stuck in a corner. Thank you for (this) intelligent ‘bible.’” S.J., Sweden

“…the book is great!” D.S., by e-mail

“I congratulate you on your fine…Offshore Encyclopedia Ver. II. It is an excellent book and has given me many hours of enjoyable and informative reading.” B.H., Australia

“You Dashews make a great book. I have spent the past year converting a Ron Holland 47′ IOR racer…into a global cruiser. I referred to your book many times, and there is evidence of a bit of ‘Dashew’ throughout.” J.S., Long Beach, CA, USA

“I just want you to know how much I have enjoyed your book and how impressed I am with you, your boats, and the book which must be the most exhaustive of it’s kind. It will find a revered place in my sailing library. Thanks so much.” J.M., by email

“I love your book!!!… When I read your book it gave me enthusiasm and a further understanding from a complete systems point of view to carry on planning and workingon my boat.” J.B., Australia

“I immediately read the book from cover to cover and now I have been consulting it on most decisions I make about outfitting Sea Drift. I have put it to good use over that past 6 months. It is well worth what I paid for it.” T.M., by email

“I keep the Encyclopedia at hand when cruising and have enjoyed your …(Dashew Offshore Video) on several occasions (I have non sailing friends who ask what it’s like out there so I pull out your video).” R.H., Canada

“I have learned an incredible amount from your previous books and I want to thank you for the effort. I am planning on finally getting the boat next year after working my butt off to get the cash and your advice will be invaluable during fitting up, etc. before the big cruise.” F.T., by email

“Thank you for publishing such a wonderful resource and education tool for offshore cruisers.” J.B., Dallas, TX, USA

“I have read …Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia over and over again, a brilliant reference when it comes to anything that has to do with sailing.” C.L., Sweden

“Yesterday I purchased your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia II and am excited by all of the information you have managed to pack into it. The CD-ROM is a great feature as well…My wife and I… recently decided to start cruising and plan to leave for at least five years… It is an ambitious goal but possible…Experience along with your book will make our preparations easier.” K.H., Seattle, WA, USA

“Love the book!” K.M., Balboa Island, CA, USA

“I’ve just… finished reading the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia. I thouroughly enjoyed it and agree with all of the glowing accolades it has received.” M.B., Hopewell, VA, USA

“Love your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia.” P.W., Bainbridge Island, WA, USA

“Thank you for a wonderful book written for sailors and yacht designers alike. Opening the book and reading about your experiences…is a real enjoyment.” E.S., Finland

“I want to tell you that I have been unable to put down the Encyclopedia since last evening when I opened the package. I also watched the video and completely enjoyed it. I have been sailing since I was a teenager (I am now 45) but I have probably learned more in the last day than any other period since then.” M.W., Elizabethton, TN, USA

“I bought the Offshore Cruising Encyclopdia in a Bookstore in Fort Lauderdale about 3 weeks ago after a long search in Germany, and it was worth the wait.” M.K., Germany

“Congratulations. Your Cruising Encyclopedia is just what I was looking for. I like people who believe in themselves enough to try their ideas in the real world.Keep up the good work.” F.C., by e-mail

“I often use both editions of (Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia)…plus your videos, for reference, enjoyment, and inspiration.” G.P., Santa Barbara, CA, USA “I have found the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia the best book about boating I have ever read.” G.E., Italy

“Your encyclopedia is my bible.” J.H., Vancouver, Canada

“Your book is so inspiring, it stirs me up not only about the magic of cruising, but about fulfilling ALL of one’s life and potential. Great book! Great food for one’s dreams!” S.H., Glendale, CA, USA

“For those who think the book is expensive this is the case of value exceeding cost. The Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia is really one of the great values in boating today.” C.S., Anchorage, AK, USA

“I loved this book and refer back to it often.” R.O., Friday Harbor, WA, USA

“The finest of all cruising books — an incredible source of information. The video is also exceptional.” R.E., Rochester, NY, USA

“I hereby confirm it is a true Îbest buy, not only regarding the contents of the book, (but) also with respect to the price per page. It is a great book which stimulates me to dream even more about offshore cruising.” K.T., the Netherlands

“The book is very impressive and the video captivating.” A.L., New Zealand

“…Finding the information useful in…the construction and final outfitting (of) my 38′ Ingrid…Thanks again for the fine and informative publication and video.” S.W., Union, WA, USA

“What a wonderful book. Everything I could possibly want to know about turning our cruising dream into a reality.” K.R., by e-mail

“Looking forward to more good, practical info. Thanks.” R.J., Holland, MI, USA

“I have just received the book and I’m truly amazed! When you say ENCYCLOPEDIA, you aren’t kidding!” C.S., Vista, CA, USA

“Currently busy with Volume II…Finding it very informative…(It) has been providing many hours of enjoyable reading…” S.H., England

“It was the perfect Christmas gift!” J.R., Littleton, CO, USA

“I can hardly stop reading the book. I am very impressed with the down-to-earth, commonsense approach to cruising and boat design.” M.Z., Oman

“…both my wife and I have read the book twice now and know everything there is to know about cruising! We are ready to buy our boat.” L.L., by e-mail

“I am finding your new edition exceptionally helpful, as I did with your first edition of Offshore Cruising…With the help of your books and some local expertise, I believe I will achieve the goal (of fitting out my boat for extended cruising). Thanks for your great work! The Dashew family is truly an inspiration!” J.K., Cambridge, MD, USA

“We have started reading the book…(and) are very pleased with (it) as the contents are exactly what we have been seeking for a long time. The books and videos we already have do not cover the information nearly as well as the products you have put together.” S. D., Australia

“A few weeks ago I bought your latest edition of the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia. Congratulations, a real accomplishment!” K.B., by e-mail

“I have just finished reading the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia, and enjoyed it enormously.” D.W., Salt Lake City, UT, USA

“The Encyclopedia is sensational!” N.K., Sonoma, CA, USA

“I liked the book so much I gave mine to a friend and bought a second copy. Great work.” D.K., Camarillo, CA, USA

“I have been reading your latest version of Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia. Great work.” F.G., Canada

“An excellent resource for dreamers, doers, and those (like myself) in-between.” R.S., Canada

“I have received the Cruising Encyclopedia…and it is, by far, the best book about sailing I’ve read. Thank you!” T.T., Sweden

“I found the 2nd Edition so good I’d like to order a copy to keep on my boat and leave one at home.” J.Z., Hong Kong

“I’m enjoying it immensely: 300 pages in 4 days, so far.” R.R., Mamaroneck, NY

“(It) so happens that your Second Edition is timely, as we are beginning our quest for a 48-to-60-foot blue water sail boat to prepare to break away into the real blue water. I am a quarter of the way through the new edition and enjoy the learning and wit. Keep up the good work.” R.W., Naperville, IL, USA

“…The book is just terrific. Clear, accessible, (and) just as good as advertised.” B.F., Seattle, WA, USA

“…It certainly appears to be worth twice its price.” S.M. , San Francisco, CA, USA

“The book is EXCELLENT – I have not had much time to look at it in depth, but what I have read, particularly the sections on yacht design and the philosophy behind Sundeer and Beowulf, has been fascinating.” T.G., England

“I found (the) books and video to be excellent and well worth the wait…Good job!” C.M., Singapore

“I’ve just received my copy of the updated Encyclopedia. It is much more than I’d hoped for…It looks like a labor of love. I can only imagine the effort expended. WELL DONE!” D.T., Wesley Chapel, FL, USA

“I received the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia a few days ago…Already from the first few pages I can tell you that I am completely satisfied. I think it is a magnificent book. Congratulations and many thanks.” R.C., Switzerland

“Just received your much expanded Second Edition Encyclopedia — a Beethovenian effort. We find it very informative…” G.S., Guilford, CT, USA

“…A fine book for sailors.” A.S., Germany

“Thank you very much for your new book. I am thrilled with it.” D.M., Irvine, CA, USA

“…I’d like to give you a bouquet of flowers for a very high-quality…product: The Encyclopedia.” S.J., Sweden

“You’ve done a great job in educating anyone interested in cruising or sailboat design. I hope you’ll continue to give us the benefit of your experience and knowledge.” J.L., Oceanside, CA, USA

“…A terrific source of information and guidance in my ongoing boatbuilding/learning eperience.” P.L., Canada

“…The best, most complete reference I’ve read in 25 years. We are planning a circumnavigation of the Atlantic on our new J-42 in two years and your book has cemented my resolve to do it. It has been most helpful in planning and outfitting the boat.” B.S., Grand Rapids, MI, USA

“Always great information based on well-thought-out and practiced ideals.” B.G., Las Vegas, NV, USA

“I am a COMPLETELY satisfied and happy owner of Offshore Cruising Encyc. and Bluewater Handbook. I have read both at least once and I have watched your videos at least a dozen times each….I am an Electrical Engineer and always enjoy the detail you go into with each system you analyze. Reading your books has made me aware of things I could not dream about since I have little hands-on experience…I do not own a boat yet but I do read A LOT about sailing and I am hoping to sail into the sunset one of these days.” N.G., Pompton Plains, NJ, USA

“One of my favorite books…” J.S., Los Altos Hills, CA, USA

“(The) ultimate TOME…Can’t wait to start picking your minds again!” J.Z., Los Angeles, CA, USA

“I thoroughly enjoyed…Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia. Most of my sailing is coastal cruising, but I have learned many valuable lessons from your excellent publication. As a licensed captain, I do have aspirations of offshore sailing and your book has certainly helped to prepare me for many situations. My compliments to both Steve and Linda, whom I already consider friends from their writing….Thank you for your efforts.” E.B., Hollywood, FL, USA

“You’ve provided a tremendous service to the boating community. I applaud you for your efforts.” J.G., by e-mail

“I read this book from cover to cover, and regularly re-read many portions. You could say it is my bible, and it is the checklist for my new yacht — a 60-foot catamaran…” W.V., The Netherlands

“We appreciate all the good advice from the Dashews, and put it to work.” C.D., Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA

“Thanks for a great book. Looking forward to the latest.” D.C., Norwalk, CT, USA

“…Truly an excellent reference book.” C.S., North Pole, AK, USA

“Your Encyclopedia is a gold mine for any sailboat owner. Thank you.” F.P., Canada

“Your books will save me not only time and money in putting my cruise together but will ensure my safety aboard. Thank you so much.” L. L.

Your books are so detailed that I have turned them yellow with a highlighter pen. “J. H., Dunwoody, GA, USA

“The book is wonderful, informative and well laid-out… it’s also tremendously inspirational.” B. T., Irvine, CA, USA

“Thank you for your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and the many, many hours of sheer enjoyment I have received while living vicariously through your shared knowledge and experiences…The book is superb on material coverage, which makes it obvious why you decided on the world “encyclopedia” to the book’s title…Again, thank you for the many hours of enjoyment…” A. A., Brentwood, NY, USA

“Reading the Encyclopedia finally pushed me into doing something more practical…I need an awful lot more practical experience, but every little helps, and I found that I could make better judgments…based on what I’d read in the Encyclopedia.” D.W., Beaverlodge, Alberta, Canada

“Congratulations to Steve and Linda on Book II. Wow!! Wound up reading it in one sitting as it reads like a cup of coffee with friends…Lovely family you have, thanks for sharing some of your experiences with so many of us.” J.V., Englewood, CO

“Your first edition of the Cruising Encyclopedia was great…I read it cover to cover. I was hesitant to invest in OCE II, but after having just finished the chapter on sails, I can say that this edition is outstanding. I finally got the big picture on cruising sails.” M.D., Ft. Lauderdale, FL

“…The Encyclopedia is just fabulous. Thank you.” F.M., by e-mail

“I am really enjoying browsing through the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia –it is certainly a very enjoyable, entertaining and informative book…Cost plenty here in Australia but worth every penny! …Thanks for the book. I know that I shall bet heaps of enjoyment and inspiration from it to keep the dream alive!” J.A., Claremont, Australia

“Thank you again for all your hard work and sharing of your experience and knowledge.” S.K., by e-mail

Going through the Encyclopedia I have found a mine of useful information that can be applied to all types of sailing boats. It is the only book that I know of that covers such an up-to-date, informed and complete range of subjects relating to a modern cruising yacht.” G.H., Hong Kong

“If this updated version is half as good as the first one it will be of invaluable assistance to me.” R.P., Downsview, Ontario, Canada

“My husband has been glued to our copy ever since it came!” M.F., Brisbane, Australia

“Your book is just great.” A.L., Hong Kong

“Am enjoying your book immensely…I love getting lost in it.” M.B., Burbank, CA

“Reading the Encyclopedia finally pushed me into doing something more practical…I need an awful lot more practical experience, but every little helps, and I found that I could make better judgments…based on what I’d read in the Encyclopedia.” D.W., Beaverlodge, Alberta, Canada

“Congratulations to Steve and Linda on Book II. Wow!! Wound up reading it in one sitting as it reads like a cup of coffee with friends…Lovely family you have, thanks for sharing some of your experiences with so many of us.” J.V., Englewood, CO

“Your first edition of the Cruising Encyclopedia was great…I read it cover to cover. I was hesitant to invest in OCE II, but after having just finished the chapter on sails, I can say that this edition is outstanding. I finally got the big picture on cruising sails.” M.D., Ft. Lauderdale, FL

“…The Encyclopedia is just fabulous. Thank you.” F.M., by e-mail

“Fantastic book! Don consulted Offshore Cruising extensively while planning and equipping of our brand new Valient 40 Windwalker. I use it frequently to clarify certain aspects as I adjust to living aboard as we prepare to cruise the Bahamas….Keep up the book work.” G.C., Flossmoor, IL.

“I recently purchased your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and have enjoyed reading it from cover to cover….You have given me much food for thought especially with regard to equipment and interiors.” G.O., Quebec, Canada

“Your encyclopedia is a gold mine for any sailboat owner and I can imagine the incredible amount of work putting this together must have been. Thank you.” F.P., Montreal, Canada

“Thank you for the very enjoyable two weeks I spent reading your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia which I obtained through the Dolphin Book Club. It was well worth the price.

I highlighted something with yellow marker on just about every page.” G.M., Pass-a-Grille, FL

“I congratulate you on your ability to put down on paper in the form of your book Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia your thoughts and experiences in a clear and concise manner. I have spent many hours reading and rereading your book discovering and learning something new each time.” G.M., Queensland, Australia

“Many of the ideas in your book have provided food for thought as we consider how best to fit out our boat.” A.G., Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia

“I am enjoying your book immensely. My brain becomes more wrinkled at each turn of the page. I (and my wife Lynn) am building a Roberts 36 custom interior ….I have spent time at sea in the navy and find your book as a very helpful guide, much like the order and discipline of that institution. I find it somewhat comforting to look at what I have built and see the same recommended features outlined in your book. In deference to your view about boat building in general, I for one am completely satisfied with my choice and love every minute of it.” D.R., Sanford, FL

“I’m here in a lovely anchorage having just completed a solo crossing of the Atlantic Ocean on Solstice, my new Prout 34 catamaran. I am writing to tell you that your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia was onboard and in constant use during the trip and through the medium of its pages I feel like you have become a teacher, guide,inspiration, and finally a friend to me. Your knowledge was a deep well where I would often go to quench my thirst. When I first bought the book, I quite frankly thought that I might be paying too much. In fact, it was the most expensive book that I have ever purchased. But now, I feel that I have cheated you. “Encyclopedia” just doesn’t begin to do justice to the plethora of subjects that you are obviously the world’s leading authority on. I can’t imagine a more thorough collection of gripping sea stories, anecdotal tips, and product endorsements between two covers. Why, just the information on how to properly use clothes pins was alone worth the price of the book. I do indeed feel like I’m privy to your hard earned secrets. An unexpected bonus that I’m especially thrilled about is how artfully you have interspaced the book with private glimpses of life with the Dashew family. I feel like I am almost a family member myself now, having been involved in the joy of your struggles and triumphs. Steve and Linda, I want you both to know that I’m proud of you for raising such fine daughters and wish them only the very best in their future endeavors.” J.M., Prickly Bay, Grenada

“When I first looked at the $80.00 price, I thought “who the hell thinks a book is worth $80?” My wife scanned the photo pages and said Linda looked like a nice person (sorry Steve) and to risk the $80. I would tell you the book is worth much more, but you may take it to heart and charge more for the revisions and any other new books.” T.M., San Diego, CA

“Your books/ your experiences have been indispensable. Thank you.

We are a family of four, with two children ages 3 and 7. We have just bought Saga, 65′ steel ketch out of Alameda, CA. And are leaving August 6 for an extended cruise. We appreciate your advice tremendously in planning our trip.” T.M., San Mateo, CA.

“It was very nice of you to drop me the note of concern for my book. I have now received it and am very serious when I say that I desperately needed it. I have already covered several subjects of interest and have hi lighted things that I need to work on. It is truly an excellent reference book.” C.S., North Pole, AK

“The book is wonderful, informative and well laid out. Since my wife and I are fairly new at all this, it’s also tremendously inspirational.: C.T., Irvine, CA

“Thank you for writing this book. I purchased Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia to help me prepare for cruising in a couple of years. It contains the most info of any book I could find.” K.K., Petaluma, CA

“The knowledge you have about boats is truly inspiring. I would like to thank you again for your book Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia.” E.R., Alvadore,Oregon

“I’m still digesting the wealth of information and drooling over those magnificent 60+foot yachts. Your book is everything the reviewers promised and more. I should have expected all this, since I so thoroughly enjoyed Bluewater Handbook. Both books are a comforting counterpoint to spartan style endorsed by Lynn and Larry Pardey. I like their books too, but dispared at having to sacrifice so many creature comforts.

Orion is flush deck hard chine steel, 13 years old and sailed only in the Great Lakes so far. We’ve owned her 5 years. She was built by Humber College in Toronto and used as a sailing classroom. We were newlyweds when we bought the boat, but now have three pre-school age crew. We’re trying to find the right compromise between sea berths and storage; your books have been a great help.” D.H., Morrisburg, Ontario, Canada

“Thank you for sharing your experiences with us and taking the trouble to amass the prodicious amount of information required to publish your unique book.” B.M., Portland, OR

“I’ve got your book as a birthday present at the same time I bought my first boat (32 feet). My dream is to cruise the whole world. I am a beginner, and I’m doing some cruising in the Baltic in Scandinavia.

Anyway, your book give great pleasure and help.” H.N., Nacka, Sweden

“I’ve read a couple of your books and have found them quite interesting. In fact, they have helped us decide on the ultimate boat we expect to cruise in after my retirement.” B.G., Normal, IL

“We are a dutch couple and at this moment we are in Australia to build a 50-foot cruising catamaran. We very much enjoyed your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and we got a lot of useful information and good ideas from it. Thanks to your information our boat will be a better boat, with better and most of all easier systems.” J.G., Queensland, Australia

“I have recently read your remarkable volume entitled Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia. I found it very sensible, eminently readable and very much in keeping with many of my own philosophies of sailing and sailboats which, at times, have been at variance with common wisdom.

Thank you again for producing such a useful volume.” S.P., M.D. , Ontario, Canada

“…I used your book as the main reference guide in specifying the construction of my MacGregor 65 sailboat …I am less than a novice seaman, and with the help of an experienced old German captain who will try to turn me into a salt, will sail the ship to the Republic of Turkye where I currently reside.

The reason I used your book as a guide is because I am an engineer by trade in heavy construction overseas- all of our equipment is diesel powered with 12V or 24V electrical. Of all the books I have read, your happens to provide very accurate recommendations for the things I really know- so I had to assume the accuracy continued into the areas I knew nothing about.” S.H., Cankaya-Ankara, Turkey

“I was exposed to what I believe was your first publication, The Circumnavigators’ Handbook, aboard Dean and Lisa Kewish’s Swan 57 Meridian, on a delivery trip from Honolulu, HI to Sitka, AK. An exciting trip, a wonderful boat, and two of the kindest most gracious people I have had the pleasure to meet. (When you next come into contact with Dean, get the full story about the weather on the way North.) I was impressed with the wealth of knowledge contained within that book, and at the first opportunity, went in search of a copy. Too bad that it was out of print at that tie. The Armchair Sailor, a nautical bookstore in Seattle, had a copy of Bluewater Handbook. That book seemed to be a natural expansion of the information set forth in its predecessor, a copy of which I am still trying to obtain.

Where could you go from there? It seems that you have again enlarged your readers’ base of knowledge with the new book. It not only builds upon the foundation laid in your first two books but brings the reader up to date on the experiences which have formed your opinions. I have not been able to read the entire publication yet because of the sheer volume of information that it contains, but that alone makes it one of the more valuable pieces of reading material for those of us preparing to spend our time “out there”.

Thank you Steve & Linda for again putting together a fine reference work for the sailor. All the best in your endeavors and, above all, safety and health in all that you do.” K.K., Eugene, OR

“I recently purchased your Encyclopedia and video tapes. I’ve watched the tapes as many times as my family will allow at home and now have them at my office to watch there and for safe keeping. I read the encyclopedia two or three times a day as time permits, studying seamanship, then boat design, then cruise planning and navigation considerations. You should charge me more as I enjoy this far more than the price of your product should allow.

My long term plans are to purchase a cruising sailboat and live between 40 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, fishing, diving and long hours of absence from telephones. I expect I’m very much a stereotype that you probably avoid sailing closer than 1/2 mile to even if I were on the hook. I really need this book BAD!! Perhaps you published it defensively thinking perhaps someone like me won’t ram you broadside in your sleep…..” F.S., Owasso, OK

“I’ve enjoyed your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and will be incorporating many of your ideas in my next boat, a custom steel 47 footer (or so) by Waterline Yachts of Sydney, B.C.

…..Thanks very much.” K.H., Auke Bay, AK

“….. We started looking at boats about a year ago in a semi-serious manner. Even though we had never been out for more than a week, we thought we had a pretty good idea of what we wanted in a boat. We were beginning to think maybe we were a little crazy until we ordered your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and video.

We have sat through the video at least 25 times and both read through sections of the book on almost a nightly basis…….” D.H., Tucson, AZ

“We’ve read, reread and studied your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia.

We purchased an Adams 45, Australian built, steel cutter with a pilot house and are in the throes of making her ready for an around-the-world trip in the next year.

Thanks for hours of good reading and tons of good ideas.” D.S. Miami, FL

“I use the familiar when I address you because I was given your book Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia recently and have read it through cover to cover twice with the third time for underlining So now I feel close to you both.

Your book is the first book I have read, that when I finished reading it, I was sad to put down. Cheryl and I enjoyed and learned so much from your book that I decided to do something I have never done before. That is to write an author (in this case authors) and say thank you and job well done! There is little doubt in my mind that you already know the impact your work has had on the industry.

…..I truly believe you are the most significant writers in your area of expertise today.

Thanks again for your contributions, not only to Cheryl and me, but to all those who take sailing seriously and desire to learn.” W.F., Palm Beach Gardens, FL

“Enjoyed Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia very much. There is an awesome amount of information in it- most of which I agree with Plus, I feel better carrying a 66′ Bruce up front!…..” L.H., Palo Alto, CA

“…..I have only had the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia two days and I already love it.” R.F., Houston, TX

“Though I blanched at the price of the Encyclopedia, I’m now halfway through the second reading and in terms of information per page it turns out to be the cheapest book in my library…and would be so at twice the price. Despite the staggering subject range (how in the hell did you ever learn all that stuff?) the presentation is not only clear but lively, thanks to well chosen anecdotes and the alternating point of view, which is very effective. You manage to convey to the reader that offshore sailing has its dangers and difficulties, not to be underestimated, but also it’s within reach of anyone willing to put in the time and effort necessary to prepare properly. The book should be a USCG requirement for anyone venturing offshore. From a fellow writer, congratulations on a fine piece of work and from a potential fellow sailor a heartfelt thanks.” S.S., Venice, CA

“Your books will save me not only time and money in putting my cruise together but will insure my safety aboard. Thank you so much.” L.L., byb e-mail

“Thanks for telling the facts as I would expect reality to be. Your books are so detailed that I have turned them yellow with a highlighter pen…I am most appreciative of product brand names. What works or doesn’t is most important.” J.H., Dunwoody, GA

“I have received your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and love it!” R.C., Albuquerque, NM

“It has already helped answer questions and thoughts we had about cruising.”D.B., Ventura, CA

“…a good reference as well as thought provoking material.” E.L., Pawcatuck, CT

“…really brought my sailing and confidence level up about ten-fold. From buying the boat to deciding how to spend limited cash on gear I learned how to weigh all the variables an still be safe…ideas which appear radical at first glance are sometimes the best way to go after looking at both sides. This is the reason why I consider your books to be the best I’ve read. You have a no bullshit approach to your writing that’s very refreshing in this day and age…you took the time in detail so a novice could then understand his options. All I can say is well done! Well done!” M.H., Irvine, CA

“I’ve been through my copy twice and it is excellent.” E.C.

“It has given us much valuable information and many hours of enjoyable reading.

We are already planning our nest boat.” S.S., aboard Djinn

“All sailors will benefit from your knowledge and experience which is so carefully detailed in the ENCYCLOPEDIA. It represents a milestone in marine literature…” B.W., San Francisco

“We enjoyed it so much we want to get a copy for a friend. It’s a great book and we know we will get much use from it.” R.T., Tule Lake, CA

“…knowing all the forces that make up a boat, its rigging, wind forces, anchor ropes, etc., gives one a much better understanding of how a sailboat will act and hold up under severe sea conditions…I have read many books and all the sailing magazines and find your two books the best I’ve ever read. Again, I want to thank you and compliment you on such an outstanding book on offshore cruising and seamanship.” J.R., Orinda, CA

“I must admit that I never thought I would read an “encyclopedia” from cover to cover, but I found the book fascinating and filled with a large amount of useful information.

Obviously this type of book needs to be re-read at specific times as thoughts occur and as troubles develop.” F.R.., Hershey, PA

“I wanted to compliment you on the best manual for cruising I have seen to date…nothing has been left out.” H.B., Marina del Rey, CA

“Marvelous stuff; a core dump of sailing and design experience, deep thought, inspiration, and hard work…evidently all proved by going out and trying it. It’s like a breath of fresh air.? D.P., Reading, MA

“I have read both books cover to cover and reviewed certain sections several times. The books answered a lot of questions!” W.C., Denton, TX

“Love your books!” M.M., Arcata, CA

“It is all the press releases say it is. Your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia fills a need for those of us needing a trusted first hand account of what to expect when cruising offshore. … a standard that will remain current over the years and stand alongside other notable works such as Chapmans and Bowditch. Thank you for the next book.” A.R., San Bruno, CA

“First of all congratulations on what you are doing for yachting. Over the years I have followed your exploits with great interest and respect. As a professional seaman your concept makes great sense to me. R.R., West Germany

“First let me say that I have admired you both for quite some time, and read with great interest everything that has your name on it. Your writing style seems so personal I am inspired to respond in a similar vein. Like so many sailing aficionados in the quest for the “perfect ” boat, I am very interested in how the sport is developing in terms of shorthanded offshore cruising designs and, for me, you seem to be closer to perfection than anything I have yet seen.” K.R., Coronado, CA

“We’ve talked about cutting our land ties and moving off shore….Your book has been extremely helpful in helping us work our plan….Again, your book and video have been extremely informative and helpful.” B.W., Atlanta, GA

“We’ve just finished reading your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia from cover to cover. It was just like a Who’s Who of attendees at the Duke of York Ball. Remember those great days sailing in PNG? Crystal clear water, constant trade winds (except for the occasional aberration in Rabaul harbour) and at that time, friendly villagers. Looking back, it was almost the best cruising of anywhere.

The Encyclopedia is a great book with lots of ideas we can both identify with as we build Illywhacker and as an Information Systems engineer I especially like the systems approach.” P. amd L. A., Church Point, Australia

“Hello there ultimate cruisers and blue water idols of ours. We haven’t gone off to the seas yet fulfilling our greatest dream and long time plan in the making; but soon will come. In the meanwhile we are your ardent fans having started off with the Circumnavigators’ Handbook straight through the Offshore video. We have learned a lot from you both and appreciate your voice and support I our mutual world of interest.” S.P. and E.H., Castro Valley, CA

“I am in the process of reading your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia , which is thoroughly enjoyable.” B.S., Cleveland, OH

“I would like to add my congratulations and thanks to the many you must have received, on your very excellent Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia.

I think that over the years I have read just about everything that has been published on the subject of cruising and cruising boats in general: from Don Street to Beiser via Carlton Mitchell and Henderson, all authorities on the subject. You, however, succeeded in distilling all this knowledge into one volume, well planned and easy to refer to. So again congratulations.” A.D., Malibu,. CA

“Fascinated with your sailing philosophy. I already have two Dashew handbooks. Singlehanders, such as myself, benefit immeasurably from the efforts of sailors like the Dashews. The general sailing community starves for safe and efficient approaches to boat handling and design.” H.S., Gaviota, CA

“Full of great information.” Richard Spindler, Editor, Latitude 38

“Replete with literally dozens and dozens of clear, concise photos and illustrations, and chockful of first-hand stories from countless long-range voyagers, the Dashews’ encylopedic Practical Seamanship is a vast resource that’ll be an important reference tool for sailors planning to follow in the wakes of its prolific authors…All I can say is ‘wow’…” Herb McCormick, Editor, Cruising World

“The Dashews’ Practical Seamanship is a graduate course in going to sea, using the tools and materials of the 21st century to improve the practice of our ancient craft. It will shave 10 to 20 years off your learning curve.” Greg Jones, Editor, Sailing

“The 640-page volume covers every subject of seamanship in more than 930 topics, has 800 detailed illustrations and forms, and is…the most detailed and thorough book ever written on the subject…Complemented by a CD-ROM that contains the entire book’s content for ease of access on boat-board laptop or PC.” IBI Magazine

“A valuable on-board asset…Filled with practical, clearly presented information.” Soundings

“An all-season must-have reference…This book tells not just how to do it, but why, when, and often, where…The section on anchoring may well be the most complete discussion in print…Every aspect of safe seamanship is thoroughly explored.” This Old Boat

“The title says it all in Practical Seamanship: Essential Skills for the Modern Sailor. Steve and Linda Dashew’s winning volume covers every aspect of going to sea on modern yachts.” The Charleston Daily News

“There can be few sailors who will not gain by reading this book.” Cruising

“First, let me tell you how much I enjoy your web site and your books. To say they are informative fails to do them justice. I don’t want to sound repetitive but they are very complete in subject matter and thorough in detail.” J.W. Balikpapan, Indonesia

“I’ve learned a lot from your books without having to learn it the hard way. For this I’m very grateful.. I’m sure a lot of sailing folks are too…” Marcus, Hong Kong

“Thanks for all of the great knowledge and products you have passed on to us over the years.” N.O., via e-mail

“Your books on yachts and sailing have afforded me the greatest pleasure. I believe I have them all including your last one on seamanship.”. F.M., Kaneohe, HI,

“I have read most of your books, and I like your thinking.” F.B., via e-mail

“Thanks for making such great books and videos!” M.G., via e-mail

“We now have the “cruising essentials” and find the books to be very informative! I am finding the setsail website very well done too!” Thanks, G.J., via e-mail

“By the way, thanks for your great books. I’ve got the Encyc., and the new one on practical sailing, and am looking forward to getting the one on heavy weather sailing.” J.W., via e-mail

“I bought your excellent books (Practical Seamanship, Mariner’s Weather Handbook, Surviving the Storm and The Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia) in CD-ROM, and would like to compliment you. The texts are very nice to read, have great quality and quantity of information, and are really clear.” J.C.L., via e-mail

” I know some folks that would love to read this book…It really is a bible on sailing.” Dr. P.C., Hong Kong

“I’ve been enjoying the Cruising Encylopeda and the Practical book as well, both of which were bought directly from your company. I’ve just bought the Mariner’s Weather Handbook…” Thanks, J.W., Washington, DC

“I bought a copy of “Practical Seamanship…I also have the Weather Handbook. Both books have a honored spot at my Nav station aboard my ferrocement sailboat.” Cheers J.W., Redondo Beach, CA

“This is a great book – I am having a hard time putting it down.” S.R., Chicago, IL

“I’ve been meaning to do this for a while. Last year I purchased your Surviving the Storm, Offshore Cruising Encyclopaedia, and (just the other day) Practical Seamanship. Three excellent books! Thanks for all your great work. Keep it coming.” M. A., Rowayton, CT

“Received Practical Seamanship March 22/01. Already am very pleased with this great publication.” R.H.., Tantallon, NS, Canada

“Just received Practical Seamanship for my birthday and I love it…The only problem now – which of the remaining three books to buy next!” L.L., Bethel, CT, USA

“I like the book very much.” D.B., Wilmington, CA, USA

“I just received the Practical Seamanship Book and CD-ROM, and it is excellent.” B.M., Hoover, Alabama, USA

“I just finished devouring Practical Seamanship. I have gained greatly from reading and practicing the insights shared, particularly sail balancing and heavy weather techniques. When read in conjunction with the video’s, the books are even more informativeÉThanks again for sharing so much.” M.B., by e-mail

“A typical Dashew cornucopia of information and knowledge.” J.P., by e-mail

“I have enjoyed your new book…and your willingness to share your knowledge.” P.S., by e-mail

“I recently received…your latest book, Practical Seamanship, and am enjoying it.” S.S., Los Angeles, CA, USA

“Excellent.Very enjoyable.” M.V., Punta Gorda,FL, USA

“I have Practical Seamanship and consider it indispensable.” E.D., by e-mail

“A fantastic book.” D. M., Ireland

“The Book is great.” P.M., Ireland

“I am thoroughly enjoying this book.” C.C., Jacksonville Beach, FL, USA

“Thanks for a wonderful and informative text!” L.E., Port Angeles, WA, USA

“ALREADY GETTING THE VALUE BACK JUST FROM SKIMMING THROUGH THE FIRST FEW TIMES…WE HAVE APROACHED THE SAILING OF OUR VESSEL IN AN ORGANIZED AND METICULOS MANNER. YOUR BOOK SHOWS US THAT WE ARE ON THE CORRECT TACK AND COURSE. A THOUSAND THANK YOU’S.” S.C., Vancouver, BC, Canada

“Practical Seamanship-the best of all (Dashew books) so far.” R.N., Holland

“Your design, content, depth, and detailed cruising books are outstanding…The content and counsel (in Practical Seamanship) has improved our long term cruising plans substantially with new knowledge and a better understanding of what successful cruising and sailing is all about.” R.L., Irving, TX

“Thank you very much for your hard work putting this publication together. It contains very useful information, and helps me towards my goal, to go cruising.” G.S., Hungary

“Hours of happy reading.” M.S., England

“I’ve found your books (The Mariner’s Weather Handbook, Surviving the Storm and Practical Seamanship) invaluable! The information, insights and tips you provide have certainly helped me become a better sailor.” Ed, by e-mail

Mariner’s Weather Handbook: Indispensable Guide (Practical Sailor)

Steve and Linda Dashew are well-known for their innovative series of big, high-speed Deerfoot and Sundeer cruising boats, and their encyclopedic reference books on cruising. Their Mariner’s Weather Handbook applies the same thorough approach to understanding marine weather that they have previously used to lead you through the maze of contradictory advice on choosing and equipping a cruising boat. This is an essential book for any cruising sailor who has even the slightest interest in developing a good understanding of weather.

…The book is packed with useful illustrations. A large percentage of these illustrations are reproductions of various weather facsimile products. The Dashews do a good job of teaching you how to understand them.

…A big bonus is the inclusion of a complete version of the book on CD. If you would rather sit at the computer than read a book, this may be the approach you take to the Mariner’s Weather Handbook. In some ways, the CD is better, as the photos on the CD are shown in full color.

Knowledge gained from this book came in handy on the bumpy ride from Tonga to New Zealand. Faced with a rapidly deepening low-pressure system dropping down on us from New Caledonia, our weather forecaster advised us to try to heave to and let the depression pass south of us. This potentially would have left us in the strongest sector of the low, with winds of 50 knots or more…Instead, with an accurately calibrated barometer, a fresh understanding of the motion of extra-tropical lows, and up-to-date weatherfaxes, we decided to carry as much sail as we could and head due south as quickly as possible. That proved to be the right choice, as the barometer showed the low stalling to our northwest, and we escaped with only a minor beating.

The book’s $75 price is a lot cheaper than going back to school.

*******

From Caribbean Compass: What if you could–well, not control the weather exactly, but feel you had enough mastery to use it? Weather is omnipresent, but knowledge is power, and for cruisers a thorough understanding of weather structure, analysis and forecasting is powerful stuff indeed. Formidable cruiser/writer team Steve and Linda Dashew’s sixth and latest heavyweight publication, Mariner’s Weather Handbook: A Guide to Forecasting and Tactics, not only explains all of the above in “user-friendly” terms, but also outlines tactics sailors can employ to either avoid certain weather systems or use them to best advantage. In their over 200,000 miles of sailing, the Dashews have developed a sensible concept of “risk analysis” to evaluate whether a system is one which can be used or should be avoided. The book covers traditional and modern forecasting methods ranging from observing the sky, sea state, barometer, and wind to the use of weather-fax charts for both current analysis and long term prognosis. The interpretation of 500mb charts ( which they call the “secret” of professional forecasters and routers) is explained in a non-technical manner, and an easy-to-follow course is given on how to use high and low pressure systems to maximum advantage. There is extensive data on tropical storm forecasting and avoidance which should be essential hurricane season reading. “Bent back warm front” storms are explored in depth. This recently discovered storm structure applies to 60 percent or more of all major open-ocean storms. An understanding of the explosive growth of these storms and the unusual way in which the wind develops around the central core is critical knowledge for offshore voyagers. The CD-Rom edition of Mariner’s Weather Handbook is fully searchable, with a linked table of contents and index (click on a subject and you are instantly transported there). It also includes the internet addresses of numerous weather-related sites with an automatic connection feature.

*******

From Weatherwise: This step-by-step manual of analysis, forecasting, and weather tactics is written for anyone who works or plays upon the sea. Authors Steve and Linda Dashew stress the importance of understanding the process by which dangerous storms form and then making early decisions and taking appropriate actions. They also discuss the benign nature of most weather, and provide an easy-to-follow course of action for using typical weather systems to maximum advantage. They cover traditional and modern forecasting methods, explain 500 millibar charts, tropical-storm forecasting, and “bent-back warm fronts.”

*******

“Take it from someone whose favorite TV program is anything on The Weather Channel: Steve and Linda Dashew’s Mariner’s Weather Handbook is the real deal. This big, fully illustrated volume is well written, clear and concise, and eminently informative.” Herb McCormick, Executive Editor, Cruising World

“Weather from the offshore sailor’s point of view; primarily the big picture, but plenty enough on short-term conditions, especially pertaining to storms and hurricanes.” Wooden Boat

“…useful for weather observers of all skill levels…The Dashews have once again provided a book that could be considered the definitive volume on the subject.” Twain Braden, Editor, Ocean Navigator

“This is not just another book on meteorology. This is a book about sailing, risk analysis and weather tactics..(and) how a sailor can translate this knowledge on board and act accordingly.” Ruud Kattenberg, Editor, Zeilen

“Brings together essential elements of weather forecasting and tactics used by professional routers, forecasters, and ocean racing navigators. Tells how mariners can make their own forecasts using just the sky, sea, and wind, and explains how to use facsimile charts, upper atmosphere charts, and the Internet. Shows how to spot potential weather risks before they are announced, and explains in full how to tell if official forecasts are accurate. Contains chapters on areas including fronts, onboard predictions, the jet stream, squalls, tropical cyclones, hurricane avoidance, satellite direct receivers, and fog. Includes some 530 b&w photos and illustrations, plus checklists, summaries, and numerous examples from tropical and temperate climates for both North and South Hemispheres.” SciTech Book News

“…Written by ocean going yachtsmen for ocean going yachtsmen, it provides a valuable insight into the usefulness of IT in obtaining meteorological information. The authors explain how we can use some of the three-dimensional methods of forecasting used by the professionals, pointing out that most meteorological text books for yachtsmen only offer a two dimensional approach. While advocating the benefits of current technology, information is included concerning the keeping of records on board of wind direction, cloud conditions, and barometric pressure. Methods of using these to help figure out what is happening when forecasts from professional routers are in error are provided…Tactics for choosing the right time to sail by reference to met fax information are covered, as well as the skills necessary to revise your voyage plan as the weather develops. Evasive actions that can be taken to minimise the worst effects of gales and tropical storms are…fully covered.” Cruising

Marine Industry Reviews

“Thank you for the copies of Storm and Weather. I devoured them both enroute to the Seattle Safety at Sea Seminar. I found them to be The Best books on these subjects I’ve ever seen, for the blue water sailing public. I touted them very highly at the seminar, and expect you’ll get several orders from some of the 150 people in attendance. Please relay my appreciation for the books to Steve and Linda. These are very important additions to the growing literature targeted at bluewater sailing.” John Bonds, Safety at Sea educator.

“Excellent book…As an operational weather forecaster and ocean racing tactical navigator I must say that it would be a BIG task to better your book.” Kenn Batt, NSW Severe Weather Section, Bureau of Meteorology, Australia

“…very impressed with the detail and content – particularly that you have written about the southern hemisphere as well which is something lacking in most weather/sailing books. I will recommend it to others who ask for reference material.” Clare Richards, Senior Meteorologist, Australian Met Service

“As someone who has for many years been fascinated by the complexities of weather interpretation at sea, I welcome the Dashew’s new Mariner’s Weather Handbook – a volume as complete and concise as this, has long been overdue. Steve and Linda draw on decades of successful voyaging experience and communicate in such a user-friendly style – not only the ‘why, what and when’ of weather – but in how to best utilize the weather to advantage for a given situation. This resource should be a part of the preparation and ongoing education of any sailor interested in safe, meaningful passagemaking. The principles so clearly explained will apply whether your sailing takes you along a coast or around the world, be it racing or cruising.” Alan Nebauer, BOC Single-handed Race Competitor

“This terrific new book includes modern and traditional techniques to help the average sailor predict weather and assess potential weather-related risks. The Dashews tell how to interpret clouds, wind direction, weather maps, and met broadcasts in order to make the right cruising and racing tactical decisions. Their examples from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres provide plenty of concrete practical tips.” John Rousmaniere, Author of The Annapolis Book of Seamanship and Fastnet Force 10

“Just once through will suggest a new way of looking at weather. Repeated return visits as puzzling or threatening weather is observed will confirm and amplify its value.” Knowles L. Pittman, Circumnavigator and Publisher of One Design Yachtsman

Reader Reviews

“The information and knowledge that I gained from this book and CD were of immense value to me during the past 2 years of sailing experience…This book gets almost as much use as my almanac.” R.O., via e-mail

“I’m reading your excellent Mariner’s Weather Handbook. Thank you for a clearly written explanation of weather processes.” Steve, via e-mail

“I typically read (Mariner’s Weather Handbook) at night…The thought is that some casual reading will aid in falling asleep. Unfortunately, the actual affect is opposite of the intended one. I usually stay up way too late reading and wind up all excited about sailing.” M.M., Seattle, WA

“Excellent reading, like all of your other works.” C.E., via e-mail

“I do my best to promote the book wherever I go. It is just the greatest.” Kenn, via e-mail

“We bought your weather book and have thoroughly enjoyed it, and learned some interesting perspectives. The coverage of upper level phenomena was particularly illuminating…” S.B., via e-mail

“We have the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and the Mariner’s Weather Handbook, as well as the Dashew Offshore video …and have enjoyed them immensely.” M.D., via e-mial

“We are in the process of preparing our Swanson 38 for its shakedown cruise into the South Pacific this May, prior to our commencement of an extended circumnavigation in 2001, and we look forward to referencing your Mariner’s Weather Handbook often.” B.V. & A.N., Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

“I am to take part in the 2000-2001 ‘BT Global Challenge – the world’s toughest yacht race’…I am going to ask to help our with weather information gathering and analysis following the fantastic information in your Mariner’s Weather Handbook.” C.B., UK

“I purchased “Surviving the Storm” and “The Mariner’s Weather Handbook” and…have found them to be immensely informative…I have learned much from your books and enjoy browsing your site. I am thankful that you take the time to share your experience and knowledge. While it’s nice to make a profit on your accomplishments, you do the world a great service by simply sharing some of your insights and experience. I will look forward to learning much more from you via your site and your books.” S.H., Westport, CT, USA

“What a great book! I have been slowly reading Mariner’s Weather Handbook to absorb as much of the content as possible…I particularly like the information on the 500 millibar charts and their relationship to low pressure areas on the surface.” S.B., Santa Barbara, CA, USA

“Love your books on Weather and Heavy weather.” D.S., via e-mail

“…Very helpful and readable compared to several other weather books I’ve slogged through…Thanks!” Glen, by e-mail

“Just glancing over the book’s illustrations, it is obvious that someone has finally written a weather book that tells the story in a context that is consistent with the way a cruising, coastal, or day sailor, as opposed to a cargo or naval ship captain, is required to think and act. Congratulations to Beowulf publishing & the Dashew family! ” B.M., Portland, OR, USA

“New Weather book a bargain at twice the price. I am reading it for the third time.” J.W., Pleasant Hill, CA, USA

“I have just finished reading it and have learned a great deal…Thanks for such a fine read on forcasting weather.” E.S., by e-mail

“A quick e-mail to let you know how much I appreciate your books. I own the Offshore Cruising Encylopedia and The Mariners Weather Handbook. I used both books extensively in preparation for a first off-shore voyage (New York – Bermuda – New York) in my Catalina 42 MkII. Although I have done the trip before as a crewmember on other boats, this off-shore trip was a first as skipper of my own boat and, as you know, it introduces a whole new set of responsibilities…I poured over The Mariners Weather Handbook to become more knowledgable about the subject and to reinforce my ability to interpret the weather charts I was downloading from the internet and from SSB fax transmissions…My congratulations on your first-class books. I can only wonder about the amount of research and effort that goes into them.” M.Y., Port Washington, NY, USA

“I recently bought your Mariners Weather Handbook, via your Internet site, and have enjoyed reading it…I particularly found the (chapter) you wrote on Bent Back Warm Fronts to be very enlightening…Very interesting book, keep up the great work.” P.G., Cincinnati, OH, USA

“Great book.” J.M., by e-mail

“Read Mariner’s with delight. As one politician said ‘you got the hay down where the goats could eat it’. I have been studying weather for the last three years with a week-long course at MITAG, much reading and private instruction, yet I got more out of your book than all the other work combined…I am circumnavigating the globe on my Hinckley Sou’wester and your book is one of my most valued possessions.” M.P., by e-mail

” I have appreciated the hard work creating your book and have found it to be the best weather book I have found, having looked for some time for a good one.” L.S, Newburyport, MA, USA

“Thank you so much for an invaluable tool!!! I’m new to sailing. Over the last four years I have endeavored to learn all that I can within the constraints of continuing to make a living and remaining responsible to other commitments. I’m making a slow mid-life transition to sailing as a way of life and to the degree that I am able a way of making a living. Your weather manual is helping me greatly toward that end!! I’m just about midway into the 500 mlb section and grappling with visualizing the incredible multivariate process we call the atmosphere. It is my experience that the sailing magazines and many of the mariners weather books do not deal adequately with the verticality and the interaction of upper and lower systems. The continuity prediction process always seemed to fall short for me and never seemed to capture the entirety. I’m fully engrossed and entertained by the 500 mlb opening!! I look forward to hours of study and the learning process. Your thoroughness and simplicity of expression speak volumes about the years invested in bringing this work forward and making it available to the laymen. Reading and studying with your handbook brings me great pleasure!! Thank you so much for your dedication.” J.B., Newton, MA, USA

“Via this email I want to thank you folks for writing the Encyclopedia and the weather handbook. Both have been of great value from the moment I bought them…” H.V., Holland

“I recently purchased your book and have read through it once quickly. I find it very impressive and am looking forward to becoming a proficient predictor.” R.S., Monterey Park, CA, USA

“I’m far enough into the Mariner’s Weather Handbook to tell that it will be every bit as valuable a reference sailing, as your Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia has been during design. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with us!” J.P., via e-mail

“Many thanks for the book, it is exactly what I was waiting for. Very impressive pictures in severe weather chapter!” C.O., Toulon, France

“I just finished your book and I thought it was fantastic.” J.T., Houston, TX, USA

“I have talked to several people who have bought the book and they all seem excited about it. It is a worthy project and, hopefully, will be well-read by cruisers.” D.C., Ventura, CA, USA

“I love…the weather book.” D.V., Ventura, CA, USA

“I both learned of yourselves and your wonderful book at the Trawler Fest just held in Melbourne, Florida. I ran right over to E&B in Melbourne and they had one on the shelf!…This book looks excellent…but what prompted my enthusiasm is that the book is also on CD-ROM!!! This is just fabulous. The first electronically searchable weather book that I know of – it’s the best.” P.S., Melbourne, FL, USA

“Thanks for writing such a great book. I think I’m finally starting to learn something.” R.P., Arvada, CO, USA

“We just want to add a quick note to tell you how much we appreciate your new book on weather. We ordered it in the States, and have found it highly informative and even entertaining….quite something for a book on weather. It is making the rounds here at Vuda Point (Fiji) and initiating a lot of positive comments.” GZ, Fiji

“We just wanted to say that we’re very pleased to have a copy of your Mariner’s Weather Handbook. Steve has read it cover-to-cover and I’m working on it. He and Jim Corenman have been discussing 500mb analysis ever since Goldie’s visit in 1994/95 – as you know your book is the first to address this critical topic from the mariner’s perspective. This book will have a prominent location in our nav station, whilst the Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia comes aboard in CD-ROM. Every book has to qualify for a slice of the weight budget – so we applaud CD-ROM issues. But until we are confident we have surrounded all of the Weather Handbook, we want the paper copy for study and bedtime reading. Many thanks for your diligent research and carefully worded explanations, as well as the hundreds of photos and illustrations. Wonderful! All the best,” D. & S., New Zealand

“I have only read the first 80 pages…but it has cleared up a few things for me already…it is entertaining and instructional reading.” D.N., Portsmouth, RI, USA

“Great weather book by the way! Have been cruising the Mediterranean Sea last 2 years. Several gales at sea and at anchor. Very changeable weather, localized. Every harbor has a direction that makes it untenable…. After reading your book, I finally am beginning to understand why the barometer doesn’t give the same warning it does further North.” M.H., via e-mail

“I have just received Mariner’s Weather Handbook. It is everything I hoped for.” R.B., by e-mail

“Have now purchased and read both Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and Mariner’s Weather Handbook. Please pass on to the Dashews our appreciation for two great books – they are now considered the foundation of our cruising library, and we have read everything we could find over the past years.” T.F., Toronto, ON, Canada

“I am currently studying your excellent weather book.” D.P., by e-mail

“I just received my copy of the book and the CD-ROM…It is great!” S.F., Norfolk, VA, USA

“Just read about bent back warm fronts in your new weather book while in Puerto Vallarta last week, and now that we’re back home I find there’s one off the Washington coast right now! The TV weather man didn’t use the right terminology, but the daylight satellite image he showed was unmistakable. Using your web links, I checked it again just now and the infrared image precisely matches the diagram for a fully-developed storm on page 223. Fantastic. We’re just glad we’re not out there right now. Gotta go check the dock lines…Thanks for the education.” J.T., by e-mail

“I received and read both Mariner’s Weather Handbook and Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia cover-to-cover in a matter of a few weeks. Great books!! They were both very informative and extremely interesting. I very much enjoyed the sections which included personal accounts. It was also very interesting to compare marine forecasting techniques to those used when I was flying in the Navy. Both books will make a wonderful addition to my home reference library. Thank you!!” T.D, Italy

“Congratulations on your new book Mariner’s Weather Handbook. Although I only received my copy yesterday, I’m unable to put it down. It’s fantastic! I showed it to my Executive Officer, who is a former instructor at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and he is recommending adding it to the curriculum in their weather course…We were particularly impressed with the CD-Rom..Learning how to look beyond the initial forecast and “read between the lines” of charts and subtle weather hints is very important, and your book emphasizes this well.” R.M., Groton, CT, USA

“I recently purchased your weather book and I am enjoying its enlightenments.” J.C., by e-mail

“Thank you for crafting your splendid book on mariner’s weather!” J.M. by e-mail

“Well, I received my copy of the Mariner’s Weather Handbook. Beautifully done in a rugged sort of way. It does look like a workbook. I expect it will get dog-eared with use and has already seen some use in the bent back warm front area. We have a bomb off the coast right now with the center of the low slated to hit the middle of Vancouver Island. I had flipped through that section of the book and when I saw the formation on the weather map, I told the manager of our building that we were in for it. They are predicting winds from 70 to 90 mph early tomorrow. The ship that is towing the bow of the freighter out to sea broke the cable and now it is drifting to the Northeast again. Interesting what you can learn from a book. You know the thing that is interesting about this is if I did still own a boat, I would have been alerted in time, even with my limited knowledge, and I would have had time to move my boat to a safer harbor than where we kept her. I’m impressed. I will read the book now to see what else I can learn that will enable me to “guess” the weather locally. This experience has created a new gamesmanship quality to the weather. The wind is beginning to howl now. I suspect this will be a serious blow. Thanks for the warning and the book.” S.D., Port Townsend, WA, USA

“Thanks for your really interesting Weather Handbook.” A.B., Gross Groenau, Germany

“I used Digital Atmosphere today to plot the 500mb heights over the top of the surface chart. You could really see where the action is going to take place tomorrow. I had never really used the 500mb charts for much before reading your book…They are great! Throw in a water vapor chart, and the job is done!!” T., by e-mail

“Makes good reading!” A.S., Dubai, UAE

“Just purchased your Mariner’s Weather Handbook. It is GREAT!” B.F., Stuart, FL, USA

“I’m a longtime pilot and a new sailor. Your weather book, which I bought, is the best one I’ve seen. It’s really very good. You…did a remarkable job on it.” D.P., Boulder, CO, USA

“The book is a mine of information…(with) an up-to-date freshness that makes it THE successor to Adlard Coles’ classic! Well done you lot.” Angelo Lavranos, yacht designer

“Thank you for the copies of Storm and Weather. I devoured them both enroute to the Seattle Safety at Sea Seminar. I found them to be the best books on these subjects I’ve ever seen, for the blue water sailing public. I touted them very highly at the seminar…These are very important additions to the growing literature targeted at bluewater sailing.” John Bonds, Safety at Sea Educator

“A very impressive book.” Reg Ellwood, rescue helicopter pilot

“Surviving the Storm is the most sweeping manual on heavy-weather sailing I know. Encyclopedic in scope yet precise in analysis, it is extremely strong on the theories of seamanship and meteorology and also on actual practices in all types of boats. The Dashews and their co-authors avoid careless overgeneralizing as they sympathetically examine how particular crews in particular boats handled particular storms. The photographs and the accompanying schematic drawings showing how boats behave in big seas are worth the price of the book alone and demand careful study.” John Rousmaniere, author,The Annapolis Book of Seamanship and Fastnet, Force 10.

Magazine Reviews

“Detailed look at passage-making in the filthiest weather – what to do, how to do it, what not to do – with some of the scariest photographs of nasty sea conditions you’ll ever want to see and case histories that will keep you up at night.”  Wooden Boat magazine

*****

From Canadian Yachting:
“Steve and Linda Dashew are certainly a fascinating couple – prolific and thorough about everything they do. Their experiences include sailing more than 200,000 miles, designing and building 50 large cruising yachts, and jointly writing several articles and books, including the comprehensive Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and Mariner’s Weather Handbook.

Their most recent undertaking, Surviving the Storm, examines the complexity of preparing for heavy weather. Sections in this stunningly illustrated book discuss sea state, wind, navigation, weather tactics, rescue procedures and boat design (mono- and multihull, sail and power). While perhaps the most complete work that I have come across, it is by no means laborious. The Dashews relate (verbatim in many cases) the collected accounts of several cruising sailors, professionals and around-the-world racers who share their exhilarating encounters and preferred tactics. Readers learn from the firsthand experiences (and sometimes, mistakes) of the experts. These stories alone are incredibly captivating.

I asked Steve for his comments on the intensity of the weather that shattered the 1998 Sydney-Hobart Race. “All the warning signs were there for anyone who took the time to see – subtropical low to the NE, a blocking high expanding over New Zealand creating squash zone potential, vigorous upper level troughing rotating into the area from the Southern Ocean. No computer model can deal with this, and the forecasters don’t want to be overly alarmist if there is only a 1 in 20 chance of a weather bomb happening.” He believes that had the same weather conditions presented themselves in the pre-EPIRB era, the judgment of individual skippers to race would have been different. “Such electronic equipment provides false security. Few boats now carry even the basic, though essential barometer. Unfortunately, many sailors avoid spending time developing their own personal forecasting skills.”

Developing skills, and ensuring that your boat and equipment are appropriate, is the theme of Surviving the Storm. While being an authoritative and serious tome, it is an entertaining read even for the armchair adventurer. You will alternately be calmed by the authors’ conversational style, and exhilarated by being thrown into the teeth of frightful storms. The Dashews feel that if you prepare for the worst, the rest of the usual gales/storms are just ongoing learning experiences. There’s enough valuable information here to fill three or four volumes. Look upon it as a professional and pleasurable training course that could ultimately save your life.”

*****

“You can take a half-dozen different books on storm seamanship with you, or you can take Dashew’s Surviving the Storm and have it all in one volume. Not only that, it’s a good read when the wind isn’t blowing.” Gregory Jones, Editor, Sailing Magazine.

*****

From Sail Magazine:
“They’ve done it again: Steve and Linda Dashew, the prolific proponents of modern cruising design and equipment, have penned another encyclopedic (674-page) book on offshore sailing. But there’s more to the Dashew’s Surviving the Storm: Coastal and Offshore Tactics than heft. The Dashews, through the first-person accounts of sailors who not only survived but dealt actively and successfully with a wide variety of storms and rough-weather situations, have put together an in-depth and long-needed examination of storm tactics and heavy-weather gear for modern boats.

The book’s strength is the range of experiences and storm-management solutions it details. The Dashews draw from their and other sailor’s findings to take a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of such subjects as heaving-to, running off (including how to steer safely in storm seas), using drogues and parachute anchors, and equipment tests of safety gear such as harnesses and tethers. Some e of the most gripping and useful reading comes in a 67-page section of interviews with top-level professional skippers and seamen, a wealth of seasoned info and opinion.

The Dashews aren’t afraid to step on some toes–the makers of safety gear that’s touted for storm use won’t be happy with field-test descriptions of their equipments’ breakdowns or malfunctions, for example. Neither will believers in the “one tactic fits all” approach to storm management. But the Dashews’ frankness and open-mindedness is a considerable strength of Surviving the Storm. After all, where dangerous weather is concerned, the more you know the more options you’ll have, and the better your chances of weathering a storm will be.”

*****

“Take the unblemished frankness and candor of Adlard Coles in Heavy Weather Sailing and process it through the prolific, if exhaustive, writing machine that is Steve Dashew, and you’re apt to end up with something along the lines of this valuable tome. With a wealth of stark photographs, and illustrative diagrams, Dashew digests heavy weather from every possible angle – human , mechanical, and meteorological – annotating his treatment by citing countless case studies of real boats in really horrific conditions. No aspect of or item on a typical voyaging sailboat is left unanalyzed. Tactics and storm procedures are outlined. Renown professional skippers are interviewed and profiled. This has all the makings of an indispensable voyaging recourse.” Bluewater Sailing

*****

From Latitude 38:
The last couple of months of 1998 were pretty tough on cruisers. There were the Nightmare Off New Zealand storms that terrified many and claimed several lives. Then one entry in the West Marine Caribbean 1500 was rolled by the leftovers of hurricane Mitch and the crew had to be rescued, while the crew of another entry simply abandoned ship. Finally, there was the deadly Sydney to Hobart Race. Given that background, those of you about to take off cruising are probably more interested in heavy weather sailing than normal.

It’s therefore timely that Steve and Linda Dashew are about to release Surviving the Storm: Coastal and Offshore Tactics. In the tradition of their other works–Offshore Cruising Encyclopedia and Mariner’s Weather Handbook being the most recent– this volume is as readable as it is long and thorough. The 672-page mini-epic is current, with long reports and personal accounts of surviving last year’s storms, and of confronting heavy weather in everything from traditional ketches, modern racing and cruising boats, and racing and cruising multihulls.

In addition to covering just about everything you could ever want to know about storm preparations, gear and tactics from those who have been through life-threatening storms, there are first person accounts of storm experiences from amateurs as well as experts including Commodore Tomkins, John Jordane, Gino Morrelli, John and Amanda Neal, and Cam Lewis. It’s fascinating reading. In addition, the book includes 540 dramatic photographs or illustrations. Many of the photos are from last year’s storms, and many of the illustrations depict tactics used to face the difficult conditions…We can report that it makes for some of the most riveting and educational reading we’ve enjoyed in a long time.

Reader Reviews

“…It has been hard to put down. Not exactly what I expected from a non-fiction book!” D.O., via e-mail

“I enjoyed Surviving the Storm…It gave me lots of ideas…” T.B., by e-mail

“I enjoyed your book very much…essential reading…” B.C., Australia

“I want to congratulate the writers for the excellent job done.” L.S., via e-mail

“I purchased Surviving the Storm and Mariner’s Weather Handbook and…have found them to be immensely informative…I have learned much from your books and enjoy browsing your site. I am thankful that you take the time to share your experience and knowledge…You do the world a great service by simply sharing some of your insights and experience. I will look forward to learning much more from you via your site and your books.” S.H., Westport, CT

“We recently purchased, Surviving the Storm…(We) find the comments and knowledge of those interviewed good food for thought. The interview format is a great idea. This book will be read again and again…Thanks again for a great book.” H. & T.H., via e-mail

“Your storm book as expected is excellent.” D.E., United Kingdom

“Love your books on Weather and Heavy weather.” D.S., via e-mail

“I am currently reading your book entitled “Surviving the Storm” and want you to know I think it is one of the most comprehensive books I’ve read thus far – more like a textbook than the typical books on rough wx sailing.” F.J., Morris, IL, USA

“Hi, I’ve just finished your latest Storm Tactics, it’s great. I’ve also read and loved your others.” A.S., Phoenix, AZ, USA

“I am to take part in the 2000-2001 ‘BT Global Challenge – the world’s toughest yacht rac’… and I am enjoying Surviving the Storm which I kept back to be a Christmas present to myself. I’m sure it will come in handy!!” C.B., UK

“I was fortunate enough to receive both the Encyclopedia and Surviving the Storm for X-mas. Yea me. Both a hugely informative and exceptionally well done, my complements…Thanks for your time and expertise.” E.S., Marina del Rey, CA, USA

“Last year I read your O.C.E. and have just got into Surviving the Storm, both excellent works – thank you. They were worth 2X the price, as they helped me start to put some of the art of design into some perspective of reality which I am trying to apply to my proposed use.” D.H., Nashville, TN, USA