Book excerpt: A good working knowledge of the Rule of the Road is essential for both skippers and crew of yachts and motorboats - as well as everyone else who goes to sea. It is also an important part of RYA Day Skipper and Yachtmaster courses. Learning the Rule of the Road includes the full text of The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, but because these Regulations are lengthy and detailed they are not always easy to understand - nor is it easy to find your way around. This guide takes those sections of the rules that particularly affect small craft, and explains them briefly and simply. Lights, shapes and sounds signals are clearly set out, as are the basic steering and sailing rules. The full text of the Regulations is also included at the end of the book for reference. This guide is ideal for beginners but is also an ideal aide-memoire for those with more experience. 'Don't put to sea without a copy! A first class guide' Cruising 'As clear and unambiguous as you could possibly ask for... Thoroughly recommended' Practical Boat Owner