Sailing in high winds and large waves is a daunting prospect for almost all sailors. Preparation of boat and crew is the key to surviving a storm. This handy aid-memoire contains the essentials of how to prepare, what to expect and what to do if you encounter severe conditions at sea. This handbook describes preparing the vessel in harbour as well as readying the boat and crew at sea for approaching rough weather.

Highly experienced sailor and former Commodore of Ocean Cruising Club, Martin Thomas describes the best tactics and techniques to use as the storm escalates, from shortening sail to running before the storm, as well as how and when to seek refuge. Should the vessel suffer a calamity, for instance a dismasting, man overboard or sinking, this book informs the skipper and crew how to manage such an unfortunate event at sea.

Each topic is broken down into digestible colour-coded sections and can be consulted in haste. There are succinct explanations and clear diagrams to help a crew survive if caught out in bad weather. This ideal quick-reference guide will boost your confidence and help you to be prepared.