Book excerpt: There are more than 4000 miles of navigable waterways in Great Britain, with more in Ireland and Europe. Peaceful canals, bustling rivers, glorious lakes - there is something for everyone. This book will tell the reader all they need to know about how to get afloat - which boat to choose, whether to hire or buy, how much it will cost, and where they can go. Boat handling and manoeuvring are covered in detail, along with maintenance and repair. And there is a section on trailer boating for those who want to keep their boat at home, advice on living aboard for long periods, night-time navigation and training. This is the only book novices will need to take their first steps afloat, and it is the one they will keep by them throughout their boating years. 'This is the book to read from cover to cover' Cruising 'The perfect introductory guide to those new to the waterways' Maritime Journal