Sailing is a hugely popular activity. Whether you are interested in racing a small boat every weekend or cruising in a yacht once a year, this title is the perfect primer for you. Sailing is a new release in the Eyewitness Companions series, following on from the success of titles such as Wines of the World, Hiking, Golf, and Classical Music. Highly illustrated throughout, Sailing uses specially commissioned photography to tell you everything you need to know about taking to the water. It demonstrates the basic techniques used on boats, such as tacking and gybing, outlines the scientific principles that affect how a boat moves through the water, and explains how best you can harness the forces of wind and tide. Basic safety and navigation are covered, alongside a comprehensive equipment section that illustrates and explains the function and features of items such as wetsuits, drysuits and waterproofs. Different types of sailing are included, from cruising to racing in small and large boats, and there are profiles of the best sites in the world for practising the various options. A chapter on racing gives you inside information on high-profile competitions such as round-the-world solo races and high-performance team events, and there's plenty of information on how to get started if you are inspired to begin racing yourself.