Being able to communicate with the local people is very important – whether it is to ask for a berth, a spare part or where the nearest chandlery or supermarket is. So, with this book, even if your pronunciation is a bit out, you should still be able to make yourself understood, quickly and efficiently, which makes this dictionary a vital part of your cruising kit.

The pocket dictionary is centred around clear, colour, annotated diagrams, such as parts of the rig and engine, in each nautical subject area, and makes it very easy and convenient to translate between nine languages (English, French, German, Dutch, Spanish, Italian, Danish, Portuguese and Greek). The diagrams can easily be used to show someone what is meant (or what is broken!) without having to worry about the language barrier. It covers general terms, such as 'port' and 'starboard', as well as technical words relating to engine and rigging repair and maintenance. Other topics include navigation, weather, seamanship, requesting help, medical emergencies, safety equipment, numbers and time.

Whether you’re a keen offshore sailor, motorboater or even an armchair boating enthusiast, Reeds 9-Language Handbook is a handy reference tool that will help expand both your ability to communicate and your horizons.