The acquisition brings to Wiley over 100 titles that cover an array of nautical pastimes, such as cruising, racing, motorboating, yacht and dinghy racing and surfing.

Published mainly in paperback, the list consists of skills and techniques manuals, navigation books and maintenance guides written by recognised sports experts, including Olympic and world champion authors like Ben Ainslie and Glenn Bourke.

The official quote from Fernhurst founder Tim Davison said: "For 27 years Fernhurst has published the leading book on each nautical topic, and I am proud that most of the titles we have produced are still in print. The time is right to significantly step up the rate of publishing and capitalise on the UK retail market and global sales. I am confident that Wiley is the best company to achieve those objectives and delighted that my life's work will be in such good hands."

When BB rang Davison to ask why he had sold he was very forthcoming. "The only reason was the money, " he said. "I'm now going to write six books and become a pen for hire. And I'm going sailing."