West Country Cruising Companion: A yachtsman’s pilot and cruising guide to ports and harbours from Portland Bill to Padstow, including the Isles of Scilly (Cruising Companions)

Product Description

First published in 1988 as West Country Cruising, Mark Fishwick’s definitive sailing guide for the ever-attractive coastline of Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly combines a skilful blend of pilotage and cruising information, with historical insight and suggestions of where to eat and what to do ashore.
For those who plan to head west, this book is more than essential reading – it will enhance your enjoyment and prove to be a worthy and much used addition to the ship’s library. Those already in the west will find themselves regularly thumbing its pages.
Share Mark Fishwick’s passion for this region which combines with his in-depth knowledge from a lifetime cruising these waters to create a text which will inspire and inform you. It is enhanced with colour charts and detailed photography, including spectacular aerial shots of ports, harbours and anchorages, many taken in 2020.
This latest, ninth, edition is fully updated for publication and further updates are provided every Spring on the Fernhurst Books’ website. More than one satisfied reader has aptly described the book as “the perfect on-board companion”.

Table of Contents

Preface

Introduction

Portland Bill to Start Point

Start Point to Rame Head

Rame Head to the Manacles

The Manacles to Land’s End

The Isles of Scilly

Land’s End to Pentire Point

Index

Review

“It is obvious why so many cruising yachtsmen would want this in the wheelhouse for any west country cruise. It’s a considerable work, the level of detail is forensic, and there is a clear chartlet of every port.” (Classic Boat) “It is written in an engaging and readable style, and manages to combine comprehensive pilotage information with extensive details of local facilities and points of interest, as well as some fascinating history. It has greatly enhanced my knowledge of my home waters! This is a true Cruising Companion, and is strongly recommended to anyone who is planning a cruise ‘down west’.” (Royal Cruising Club) “This is a must have addition to the library for any sailor who intends cruising the West Country… The amount of information and specific details contained within this Companion is exceptional. The tone in which Mark Fishwick narrates should give confidence to even the most inexperienced / nervous sailor. It is truly a ‘companion’, reading it almost gives you the feeling of having your hand held and guided to explore further with an insight of what to expect and the pitfalls / hazards to be avoided.” (Compass Magazine) “This is the 9th edition of Mark Fishwick’s evergreen publication and it’s a testament to what a useful guide it is… it has retained its popularity due to its excellent mix of in-depth local knowledge and genuine love and affection for this beautiful cruising ground.” (Sailing Today)

About the Author

Born in Exeter and bought up on the River Exe, Mark Fishwick began sailing at an early age and explored the rivers, creeks and harbours of the West Country in his parent’s sloop. He moved to Cornwall in 1973 and since then has enjoyed a varied nautical life encompassing commercial fishing, charter skippering in the West Indies, yacht delivery, boatyard work, writing, photography and just occasionally sailing for fun! He has now returned to his roots and lives within sight of the River Exe.