The Baltic Sea

Created by doina. Last modified on 2006-02-10 11:47:28
Contributors:
Topic: Books,Charts and DVDs
Countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Sweden

The Baltic Sea

2nd Ed. (2003)

Royal Cruising Club Pilotage Foundation

Published By Imray

Edited by Anne Hammick

Price £37.50

ISBN 0 85288 6667

Another essential guide in the RCC’s Pilotage Foundation series covering Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Poland, Kaliningrad, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

This hardback book makes extensive use of colour, both for the charts and the many photos, which illustrate every page. The opening chapter outlines a brief history of the Baltic but quickly moves on to the general practical considerations of cruising this area; formalities, weather, buoyage, berthing and anchoring, fuel, repairs and marine supplies, radio communications, charts and useful websites (including Noonsite!).

The sections covering each country also begin with 3 or 4 pages on general practical information applicable to that national area. This is followed by an overview of a particular section of coast and then details of each harbour. These details always include a colour chartlet, usually at least one photo, a general description and information on approach, berthing, facilities and communications. A very useful additional feature is the blue/grey highlighted panel giving the lat/log position, distances from other ports, applicable charts, light characteristics and VHF channels and phone numbers for the harbour. Anchorages, although occasionally mentioned, are not covered, nor are they marked on any of the charts.

The number of good colour photos included in this pilot book make it particularly attractive, and are so useful in giving a glimpse of a particular area when planning a cruise to this fascinating sea.

Review by Val Ellis