What makes yachting so very special? Sailing journalist Olivier Le Carrer takes us on a journey to the iconic places of the yachting world, from Cowes to Antigua, the Mediterranean and Auckland, in order to find out. Looking at what drives sailors in this sport, the rise of fashion in yachting clothing and accessories, the important personalities and even the sport's portrayal in art and film, the author explores the essence of yachting, its values, its exhilaration and its atmosphere. Racing also plays an important role and stunning photography follows the history of the America's Cup, imposing J Class yachts as well as the single-handed Transat. Although yachts are simply pleasure boats, regardless of size, they are important in the lives of many people. This book pays homage to the beauty of these craft and to the seamanship required to sail them well. Featuring: - the great racing regattas (from Cowes Week to the America's Cup, the Fastnet Race and Sydney-Hobart Race) - cult sailing venues (St Tropez, Porto Cervo, Newport Rhode Island, the Solent) - iconic characters and celebrities who characterise yachting as a sweeping global leisure pursuit (Aristotle Onassis, Errol Flynn, Sir Peter Blake, Sir Thomas Lipton) - yachting's influence on glamour and design (the timeless fashions yachting has inspired - the blazer, Dockside shoes, stripey Breton jumpers)