As a trainer in shipboard security and a university instructor in disaster and emergency preparedness, I have received many requests from the cruising community and members of the charter yacht industry for a comprehensive source of practical information about vessel security and defense. This book is the result. It is concise and easily used. The information is foundational and can be built upon as need arises. Security for Recreational and Charter Yachts is structured for use by yacht owners, cruisers, and those who visit distant ports at home and abroad. Recreational and charter yachts have unique requirements that begin with yacht construction for aesthetics rather than security, and the enjoyment of their occupants rather than carrying out commerce and work. Although yachts must follow virtually the same regulations as the commercial industry, interactions with communities and port facilities ashore tend to be quite different from the commercial industry. This book will help the yachtsman cope with vagrancies of current threats and prepare them for the dynamics of security that lead to the evolution of future threats. This book is an excellent vehicle upon which more advanced training can depend.