Renner also gives sailing and cruising directions to many of the Pacific Northwest coast's areas. He describes the location, normal weather conditions and weather hazards one might expect, and a map of the location. I discussed the weather sources for use while boating with my husband after reading this chapter, and we decided the barometer is a good investment. The barometer has information and guidance on weather disturbances and tells you when a weather disturbance is approaching or where a high is building. Surface analysis maps give the locations of surface high and low pressure centers, troughs, positions and types of fronts, and weather observations.
Isobars go in between the high and low pressures.
The surface analysis map also has a series of circles representing observing stations. This is also an excellent boating reference. For a novice, such as myself, the book is easy to read and understand. Although I have been on many trips in the Puget Sound up to Friday Harbor and through the Straits of Juan de Fuca, I now know better what to look for as far as weather and wind patterns. I feel I am more informed about boating safety and weather patterns.