Dag Pike – författare

How a sextant works and how to get the most out of it.The sextant is the treasured navigational device of generations of seamen and airmen. It enables position to be determined with good accuracy for ocean navigation, and it was the combination of sextant and chronometer that allowed safe navigation of the oceans for generations of seafarers.Despite the accuracy and ease of use of electronic navigation systems, every navigator should be able to use a sextant. It could even save your life in the event of electronics failure.This book describes how a sextant works, provides practical tips and advice on using it, explains how to read as well as take sights, how to make adjustments and correct errors, and finally advises on how to handle and care for the instrument.Originally written by the late Captain O M Watts, this new edition has been entirely rewritten by Dag Pike, a seaman and navigator of great experience. He is perhaps best known as the navigator of Virgin Atlantic Challenger on its successful record attempt.'An enormously useful guide' - Fishing Boat World

A curated collection of the most beautiful and remote spots in bays, rivers and harbours around the UK and Ireland.The UK and the Irish coastlines boast some of the most stunning and varied places in the world for dropping anchor. But it’s not always easy to find anchorages that are sheltered and secure with beautiful scenery. Authored by a panel of highly experienced cruisers, this guide offers detailed knowledge of every part of the coast of the UK, Ireland and the Channel Islands. Their recommendations can be trusted to take sailors away from the crowds to some of the very best anchorages these islands have to offer, from peaceful Babbacombe Bay in Devon with stunning views to Toberdenny in Ireland, an unspoiled natural harbour that's achingly beautiful at sunset. Each anchorage is accompanied with a chart, brilliant photography and a description of the place, covering why you should go, any hazards to look out for, and information on your approach, navigation, shelter, facilities available and wildlife to spot.Anchorages of the British Isles is the perfect planning guide for day trips, weekend getaways or summer breaks to explore cherry-picked, lesser-known locations and make the most of the beautiful coastline. Get ready to discover the finest spots to drop anchor along the coasts of the British Isles.

Boats are expensive and they are complicated - unless you are going to pay a professional to carry out a survey (at yet more expense) it is invaluable to be able to:- quickly assess a potential purchase for signs of trouble without paying for lengthy reports- carry out a detailed check on your own boat the end of the season- identify problems and get them dealt with before they get serious- get to know your boat in a lot more detail, so if a problem develops at sea you will be more able to copeOrganised into chapters covering: Tools of the trade (basic tools, moisture meters, fingers and feel, smell, mirrors, sources of information); Checking the hull (including wood construction and rot, GRP laminates, osmosis, metal construction, keels, anodes); RIBs and inflatables; Engine and systems; Stern gear; Plumbing; Mast and rigging; Electrical systems; Interiors; Safety equipment. At the end of the book there's a handy guide to carrying out a five minute survey - invaluable when making a quick assessment of a potential purchase.Highly illustrated, with anecdotes and hands-on advice throughout, this practical book gives readers the tools to do much of the work on their own, and know when to call in the experts.