The Bristol Channel has an incredibly rich maritime history, reaching back to when men first went to sea in ships powered by the wind. Many were built locally - the Bristol Channel pilot cutters have a legendary reputation right across the world; seventeen original vessels still exist and modern ones are still being built. John Cabot set sail from Bristol in the Matthew and reached America, while, at the other end of the scale, there are the small double-ended Somerset flatners fishing Bridgewater Bay. At least three famous Antarctic exploration vessels loaded Welsh coal before heading south. The story of Scott's Terra Nova is well known and the Scotia, which pioneered Antarctic exploration, was later wrecked and burnt out on Sully Island. Bringing the story up to date is Challenge Wales, an around-the-world racing yacht now based in Cardiff and active in sail training and youth activity. In between are a whole host of unsung vessels of all sizes, each with their own tale to tell. Sailing Ships of the Bristol Channel brings all this salt-stained heritage, courage and tenacity into one colourful and highly readable volume; maritime history is in our blood and this book will enrich it.

About the Author
A former policeman, Viv now pursues his interests in history and sailing. Viv likes to travel and spend time each year in New Zealand. But home is in Cardiff, these days the biggest sailing centre in the Bristol Channel. He sails Fleur, a diminutive lug-sailed ketch, when the tides and winds allow. He has previously published on behalf of the Association for Gaff-Rig Sailing.


Book Information
ISBN 9781445664002
Author Viv Head
Format Paperback
Page Count 96
Imprint Amberley Publishing
Publisher Amberley Publishing
Weight(grams) 290g