Subject
Merchant marine Books
Best books
Richard Henry Dana
The Seaman's Friend Containing a treatise on practical seamanship, with plates, a dictionary of sea terms, customs and usages of the merchant service
"The Seaman's Friend" by Richard Henry Dana is a comprehensive guide on practical seamanship written in the early 19th century. This work serves as a crucial resource for sailors, providing detailed information about ship construction, rigging, and the laws and customs governing maritime life. It is particularly aimed at those new to sea life and includes technical diagrams and practical advice for both novice and experienced mariners. The beginning of the book outlines its purpose and dedication to various stakeholders in the maritime industry, including sailors, ship owners, and legal authorities. It introduces the first section, which focuses on practical seamanship, including the construction of vessels and the management of sails and rigging. The text elaborates on the technical specifications and proportions vital for building and operating merchant vessels, offering insights into the various kinds of equipment and terminology pertinent to seamanship. This foundational content sets the stage for deeper explorations into the complexities of maritime duties and regulations as the book progresses.
Frank Thomas Bullen
The Men of the Merchant Service Being the polity of the mercantile marine for 'longshore readers
"The Men of the Merchant Service" by Frank Thomas Bullen is a detailed account of life and conditions in the British mercantile marine, written in the late 19th century. This work aims to provide a comprehensive guide for both parents and young men considering a career at sea, exploring the roles, responsibilities, and challenges encountered by those in the Merchant Service. It promises to shed light on various shipboard positions, particularly the intricacies of a shipmaster's duties, and the contrasts between sailing ships and steamers. At the start of the book, the author expresses his recognition of the ignorance surrounding the mercantile marine among the general public, despite its critical importance to British commerce. Bullen outlines his motivation for writing, as there are few reliable resources on the subject, especially for youth aspiring to become seamen. The opening chapters introduce the progression from cadet training to achieving the status of a shipmaster, detailing the numerous qualifications and competencies necessary for each stage. Bullen emphasizes the personal qualities required to succeed in maritime roles, setting the stage for an exploration of the intricate world of seafaring and the dedicated individuals who navigate it.
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