Written with the complete beginner in mind, this guide explains what the novice sailor needs to know in order to pass the RYA's Competent Crew exam, to be welcomed on board as a useful deck-hand, or simply to be a helpful passenger. It covers many subject areas, including the name of each part of a boat, how the sails work, how to use ropes and tie the essential knots, the correct use of cleats and winches, setting sail, reefing, how to moor, and how to anchor.