Nigel Calder (2) (1938–)

Everything you need to know about using a nautical chart. A lot of stuff you don't need to know and way more than you ever thought you would know. So then, the last book you'll ever need about reading nautical charts, even after you switch completely to electronic charts, which Calder recommends against.

You can't just read it, though, it's far too dense and most is not immediately applicable, so buy a copy, read it quickly then get it out ahead of your next passage (or whatever), use it for show more planning then take it with you. Get a small magnifying glass, too. show less

This extensive maintenance manual sets the bar for any similar work very high by moving rapidly from generalities to specifics across a comprehensive range of boat systems. And because many aspects of boat systems equally apply to renewable energy, gas and diesel engines and recreational vehicle maintenance, it can be used as a broad-based reference work far outside of marine applications. -- Richard D. Masters