Shining a light on our maritime past
Lightships, by Anthony Lane and Martin Augustus
Image on landing page: Automated Trinity House vessels ALV1 and ALV10 after a refit in 1988. Taken from Lightships
In their new illustrated guide, Anthony Lane and Martin Augustus, showcase a
crucial, but often forgotten part of British maritime history. Prior to the widespread use of modern navigational techniques such as radar and sonar, Britain’s lightships saved thousands of ships from becoming grounded upon the sandbanks and reefs they guarded.
Although some lightships survive today as unmanned vessels, this guide, filled with detailed illustrations and exclusive photographs, highlights the important work of seafarers who operated these vessels, providing a vital safeguard for ships near the notoriously dangerous British coastline.
Readers interested in a comprehensive history of one of the most crucial developments in maritime navigational infrastructure will enjoy this well researched guide, which combines a history of technical development with some fascinating stories of bravery and ingenuity. Certainly, food for thought when considering modern navigational techniques!
Lightships: Their Design, Development and Diversity
By Anthony Lane and Martin Augustus
Amberley, £15.99
ISBN 978 13981 19239
Buy this book in the Nautilus Bookshop
While you're there, why not browse the rest of the titles in our unique maritime bookshop, which sells all the books reviewed on these pages.
Buy nowMore Books
Scottish city's maritime heart
Glasgow Harbour By Graeme Smith and Mike McCreeryFew places are as closely tied to maritime heritage as Glasgow. In this richly illustrated guide, Graeme Smith and Mike McCreery trace the history of the city's Clydeside harbour from its beginnings in the 17th century to its present-day redevelopment.
Standing the test of tide
Piers of England and Wales By Steve EdmundsIn this richly illustrated guide, Steve Edmunds takes readers on a tour of the iconic structures that blend land and sea – home to all manner of amusements and amenities.
Maritime mystery tour
Irish Sea Lime Trade, by David JohnsonIn his attractively-presented book, David Johnson takes us on a tour of historical sites in the Irish Sea lime trade, from South Pembrokeshire up to the Solway Firth, and across to the Isle of Man and Ireland.
From seafarer to force of nature
Gale Force 10, by Nicholas CourtneyFrancis Beaufort was born in Ireland to a family of Huguenot descent, and first went to sea in 1789 onboard the ill-fated British East India Company vessel Vansittart. In a fascinating career, he is best known for creating the Beaufort Wind Scale.