Ph.D. Oceanographer Scott McDowell's comprehensive guidebook is written for new boaters as well as those selecting a home port for their live-aboard retirement. The book is filled with practical tips including how to approach Marina Management, selecting the best type of slip for easy docking and dinghy storage, assessing amenities, interpreting vessel insurance policies and more. Also covered are key ocean processes such as tides, storm surge, tsunamis and lightening to maximize safety for the boat owner and vessel. Dr. McDowell educates by example with a bit of humor and sea salt sprinkled in. For the computer savvy boater, websites are given for the best weather and storm forecasts, as well as tides.