I've uploaded a copy of Bowditch's Practical Navigator (published in 1802) to the following link: http://www.megafileupload.com/wMjM/The_Improved_Practical_Navigator.pdf It has information on navigation, of course, and also use of instrumentation etc. Also cool is the list of sailing terminology that starts on page 262. Enjoy!
I don't exactly sail these waters(no pun intended) but that will be interesting information if I ever decide to write something like that. Thank you, saving it here.
I have a small yacht which I sail around the Scottish islands. Your post has just made me realise that I've never written anything other than what's in my log book! I also have a website devoted to the esoteric art of astronavigation. See www.backbearing.com for other sailing related links. Note to self: Must write a story about sailing!