LONDON: The British Omani Society (BOS), in collaboration with maritime publisher Imray and the Royal Cruising Club, has hosted the launch of Sailing Oman: A Yachting Guide at the Royal Thames Yacht Club in London.
The publication is described as the first comprehensive cruising guide to Oman, providing practical information for mariners navigating Oman’s coastline while highlighting the country’s maritime heritage, coastal landscapes and seafaring traditions.
The launch brought together guests from the maritime, diplomatic, cultural and business sectors, who heard from the book’s authors, Reem Askalan and Jaoudat Kazoun, about the inspiration behind the project and the years of research and sailing expeditions that went into its preparation.
The guide documents anchorages, passages and points of interest along Oman’s coastline, which has played an important role in trade, exploration and cultural exchange over the centuries. It also highlights opportunities for sustainable marine tourism.
Askalan, an Omani urban planner, researcher and sailor, spoke about the importance of documenting the country’s maritime landscapes and preserving knowledge of Oman’s longstanding relationship with the sea.
“Outside Muscat, we were mostly always the only yacht around, surrounded by untouched, majestic beauty that left us with a profound sense of humility,” she said. “We wanted to show the story of Oman that starts from its three seas and two monsoons.”
Kazoun reflected on the extensive coastal surveys undertaken for the guide, noting that such a publication begins with journeys, conversations and discoveries made along the coast.
The event also highlighted the continuing importance of maritime heritage to Oman’s national story and growing international interest in its coastal environment.
The British Omani Society thanked Imray, the Royal Cruising Club, the authors and attendees for their support in making the launch a success.
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