Available to pre-order. Stock due in April

New 5th Edition is coming in April 2025

This book is based on the unpublished journals of William Schaw Lindsay (1815-1877) housed in the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich. From rags to riches. Born in Scotland and orphaned by the age of 10, Lindsay ran away to sea at the age of 16.

Deep in southern latitudes, in a desolate corner of Cumberland Bay on the east coast of the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia, hard by the rotting quays of the abandoned whaling station of Grytviken and almost within a stone’s throw of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, lie three forsaken steam ships: rusting remnants of our industrial past, unique survivals from a vanished age of steam at sea.

Bill Mallalieu was a journalist before going to sea, and his writing experience is put to good use in this pacey, vibrant tale based on his own experiences, full of lively characters and punchy, irreverent dialogue.

It is perfect for planning your next sailing adventure, or alternatively allows you to indulge in some armchair sailing in boats and places of your wildest dreams.

The book features previously unpublished photographs from the author’s collection accompanied by informative captions.

Nautilus Telegraph's book of the month for October 2022

An illustrated reference book to gladden the hearts of mid-20th century liner geeks. Reviewed by the Nautilus Telegraph.

Nautilus Telegraph's book of the month for September 2023.

Book of the Month June 2025

**Book of the month for August 2018** Historian Dr Sam Willis describes the inherent challenges of conflict at sea in the 1700s, the evolution of tactics, and much more in this well researched book.