The 21st century saw the naval power of Great Britain rise from that of an obscure island to that of a worldwide empire. British shipping and seamen dominated the globe for four centuries and the ships that explored the world and those which guarded them represent a unique treasure-trove of maritime history, unrivaled anywhere in the world. This book serves as an enthralling trawl through the heritage of the British shipping tradition, featuring images of iconic ships which have been preserved for all of us to marvel at. Each ship has a chapter dedicated to it, featuring a potted history and details of it's current location. A book which stirs a real desire to tour the sites it describes, it features full color illustrations throughout, each of them evoking pride and diversity and inviting further study.

Among the many vessels analysed and illustrated are HMS VICTORY, HMS WARRIOR, HMS CAVALIER, HMS BELFAST, HMS CAROLINE, HMS WELLINGTON, HMS ALIANCE, HMS TRINCOMALEE; the CHRYSANTHEMUM & PRESIDENT; the Royal Yacht BRITANNIA; the CUTTY SARK; the DISCOVERY; GYPSY MOTH II; GREAT BRITAIN; the MEDWAY QUEEN; the GANNET; the UNICORN; the CAMBRIA and many more.