Small craft with a big wartime role
The Petrol Navy, by Steve R Dunn
If you're looking for a different view of the First World War at sea, The Petrol Navy is an admirable addition to your collection.
Steve R Dunn charts the history of small petrol vessels, starting with the development of motor yachts in the 1900s and the recognition that suitably armed versions could fill a strategic gap.
He covers technical development, the crewing of the vessels by gentleman amateur sailors, and the vessels' vital role in the convoys of the Great War, with details of the actions they were involved in. It's an international work that goes into the use of such vessels by the USA Germany, France and Italy as well as the British Royal Navy.
The Petrol Navy
By Steve R Dunn
Seaforth Publishing, £25
ISBN: 978 13990 62855
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.