Navigate any coastline

Navigation using digital or paper charts is key to good seamanship, but understanding the seven basic types of coastline and their challenges, and keeping your eyes out of the boat…

No matter where you are in the world, if you are cruising a coast the chances are it will fall into one of seven categories, says Rachael Sprot.

Buck's Mills, North Devon

This quaint North Devon anchorage is a peaceful haven offering protection from southwesterlies, says Dag Pike

Box mooring

Though they are often viewed with suspicion in the UK, box moorings are actually very user-friendly, argues Gordon Davies

Sandy Haven in Wales

Jonty Pearce makes the most of September's good weather with a cruise to a quiet anchorage in Milford Haven, Wales

Rhos on Sea anchorage in North Wales

Dag Pike finds shelter from brisk westerly winds in this picturesque and historic Welsh harbour on the north coast

A women using digital navigation on the deck of a yacht

As with all aspects of navigation, following ‘best practice’ is the surest way to make sure you are passage planning in a seamanlike manner, says Bruce Jacobs

A busy anchorage at Oznor, Greece. Anchoring here requires thought about how much anchor chain you put out

When it comes to putting out anchor chain, most of us follow a basic ratio rule of thumb, but we should be taking wind and tide into account, argues Christopher…