Short-Handed Sailing

While relatively few cruise single-handed, many sail short-handed. It may be a couple sailing together or a skipper with a novice crew – he may have lots of people onboard but, in terms of the sailing, he is probably short-handed. They soon discover that there is so much more to short-handed sailing than a lack of crew. It demands a different approach, a new mindset.

The skipper has a much greater workload but there are also fewer people, sometimes no-one at all, to consult during the decision-making process. Under these circumstances fatigue can be as dangerous as heavy weather: it creeps up on you, often unnoticed, destroying your morale and ability to make rational decisions.

And when short-handed, the crew’s limited physical resources must be watched over and zealously guarded.

In this heavily illustrated book Alastair Buchan passes on the lessons of his hard-won experience gained short- and single-handed sailing in coastal, offshore and ocean waters. It will show you everything you need to know about handling a boat alone or short-handed, from choosing a suitable craft to passage planning, manoeuvring, sleep management and watch keeping.

“An articulate guide with plenty of tips gleaned from experience.” Yachting Monthly

“A very practical introduction to short-handed cruising under sail, proving that there is much more to short-handed sailing than a lack of crew… provides well-tried practical advice… an excellent volume for the skipper and any of his potential short-handed crew.” Afloat Magazine

“In this excellent book, Alastair Buchan passes on the lessons of his hard-won experience gained short- and single-handed sailing… Short-Handed Sailing is a well compiled and splendidly illustrated book that shows you everything you need to know about handling a boat alone or short-handed.” Afloat

“A very informative and practical book… packed full of useful details. All topics are well presented and written in an easy-to-read style with lots of illustrations and photos. I recommend this book to all boat owners and skippers.” Little Ship Club

“Buchan speaks with a good deal of authority… and covers both sailing single-handed and short-handed with a good deal of expertise. There are also handy diagrams throughout.” Sailing Today