Here are the basics: the physics of sailing, the theory of sail, ship handling under sail and power, the diesel engine, electrics and electronic. Here is an introduction to navigation--piloting, celestial, and electronic, the Nautical Almanac, the sextant, plotting, and a marvelous section called "Ten Easy Steps to Success with the Sun." This is an easy-to-understand, readable guide to what is needed to go to sea with confidence.