Jan-Willem Polman is a sailor, author, journalist and specialist in synthetics technology who runs courses and workshops about splicing modern ropes.

For any seafarer, splicing rope is an essential skill. But the traditional 3-strand rope is fast disappearing. So how do you splice braided rope?

This is the definitive guide to this crucial skill. Most of the techniques are quite easy to master - and also fun to do. See why splices are better - and stronger - than knots or shackles for joining or shortening rope, and follow the step-by-step photographs and clear instructions to find out how to splice efficiently.

Learn how to

· make strong, reliable splices in braided rope

· select ropes in the materials that best suit your on-board requirements

· customise your ropes to make your setup easier and safer

· optimise your deck layout and save weight on board

· taper your sheets for ease of handling

· splice an extra cover on your ropes to give better grip in clutches, avoid chafe and make them last longer

While a knot can reduce the strength of a rope by as much as 50%, a well-spliced rope loses only 5-10%. The techniques, insights and suggestions within these pages will be invaluable to all boaters, whether recreational or commercial.

This book will guide readers through all of the stages required to make strong splices.

If any book deserves to be labeled 'a practical handbook,' Splicing Modern Ropes has to be among them.