Coastal Turmoil Book Review

Created by val. Last modified on 2010-07-09 11:34:48
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Coastal Turmoil (Winds, Waves and Tidal Races)
By Ken Endean
Pub.By Adlard Coles
Publication date: 24th August 2010
ISBN 9781408127025

Most boating is done in coastal waters, where sea conditions can be more dangerous than in mid ocean. Coastal seas often spring surprises, winds switch direction, gentle swells rear into steep breakers and fast currents cause violent overfalls. Even in good weather, areas of unexpectedly rough water increase the chances of accidents, breakages and seasickness.

Coastal Turmoil unravels the complexities of local winds, inshore currents and wave action. With clear technical explanations and tips on rough water tactics, this highly practical guide shows how a good understanding of coastal weather and sea states should enable careful skippers to avoid the trouble spots, reduce risks and cut passage times.

Much of this information has not previously been published for small craft use and the book includes unique insights into:-

Boat handling in overfalls
Downhill flow - on the sea
Entering and mooring in exposed harbours
Using wave patterns in coastal pilotage
Shallow river bars
The influence of seabed contours
Tidal races acting as breakwaters
Swell interacting with currents and much more

Ken Endean, a sailing instructor at the age of 20, spent the next 34 years in the construction industry but also cruised extensively in home waters between Scotland and Biscay. He has been a regular contributor to Yachting Monthly and Practical Boat Owner's cruising and pilotage columns since 1977 and is the author of Adlard Coles Nautical's Channel Havens, a popular guide to the South Coast.