caribbean

If you are planning to cruise the Bahamas and Virgins - Van Sant is as important as your GPS. Don't leave home without it. Then, USE IT. Follow his advice - to the letter. The "Gentleman Cruiser" knows of what he speaks. He's been there-done it-and has the t-shirt (or knowledge - if you will).

I have a Captain's license and have taught navagation, safe boating and Rules of the Road - and was associated with a very active USCG Aux. flotilla before adopting the crusing life. Van Sant's description of weather, air and patterns is undoubtedly the best I have ever come across. I have recommended that his narrative be used for the Auxilliary Weather classes. Boy am I glad that he did not listen to the "nay sayers" and delete that portion. If you plan to cruise - pay special attention to that section.

Happy sailing and may the wind be always on ur beam.~~~__/)~~~
Capt. Carrole Ward and Noel Robbins, LCDR, USN (Ret.)
aboard S/V Cassandra

I have just completed my old copy of Van Sant's book and will never look at cruising the same way again. My wife and I have lived on our 49 foot sailing catamaran, Millennium Dragon for the past 2 years. After reading the earlier version, I am convinced we must slow down and "wait for weather". This is not only a sailing guide to cruising south, it is a major work on adjusting your attitude regarding passages and how to reach your destination in comfort. I have just purchased the updated version to look for additional pearls of wisdom. Van Sant is opinionated and direct but very entertaining and informative. You will either love or hate the man but read the book!

One can easly find fault with the presentation of the information contained in this book, but to get beyond that is a small price to pay for the wealth of knowledge and wisdom shared in its pages. I read the book four times cover to cover and am not done with it yet. For one as myself, a competent local-waters sailor about to venture off to distant lands, the book was the bridge between the dream and the plan of action. The author paints a very clear picture of the hard lessons one is destined to experience beating into the trade winds in search of paradise; but more importantly, how to avoid learning these lessons the hard way. His strategy of route selection and timing masterfully minimizes the adverse effects that weather, wind, and wave can have on boat and crew.