Leith built Ships Volume 5

 

Step back into an era when elegance met engineering, and Scotland’s shipyards gave birth to some of the most magnificent vessels ever to grace the seas. Magnificent Steam Yachts of Leith, 1870–1928 is a richly detailed maritime history that uncovers the forgotten world of luxury steam yachts built in the bustling port of Leith.

Between the late Victorian age and the dawn of the Jazz Age, Leith’s master shipbuilders crafted floating palaces for aristocrats, industrialists, and adventurers. These yachts were more than ships—they were symbols of prestige, innovation, and the romance of the sea. My book traces their stories: from the design and craftsmanship that made them marvels of their time, to the voyages and owners that carried them across oceans and into legend.

With archival research, rare illustrations, and vivid storytelling, this work brings to life the glamour and grandeur of a bygone era. It is not only a tribute to Leith’s shipbuilding heritage but also a window into the social and cultural currents that shaped the age of steam.

Whether you are a maritime historian, a lover of Scottish heritage, or simply captivated by tales of opulence and adventure, this book offers a journey into one of the most fascinating chapters of nautical history. Volume 5 in the series will be at a good bookstore near you in April 2026.

Niche Travel Deals Has Officially Launched

 We’re excited to announce the launch of Niche Travel Deals — a new UK travel platform dedicated to unusual, meaningful, and story‑rich travel experiences.

For all your travel needs, from flights to holidays and cruises any travel requirements can be found at the new travel agents of nichetraveldeals.co.uk

Highly recommended with my next trip already booked with them to Sicily.

Awe the best for 2026

 A happy new year to one and all as we begin another year, lets hope that 2026 is a good one.

With this being the first day of 2026, how about another first, this one is from Leith.

Remember that Leith steamed across the Atlantic first, with the fine old ship Sirius.

 

Discover the forgotten glamour of Scotland’s steam powered palaces afloat, 1870–1928

 Volume 5 of the series on ships built at Leith, Scotland will continue with the release of the Magnificent Steam Yachts built at Leith. 

Magnificent Steam Yachts of Leith, 1870–1928 (Volume 5) sails into the golden age of luxury at sea. From Scotland’s famed shipyards came opulent steam yachts—floating palaces that embodied wealth, innovation, and adventure. None more so than the shipyards at Leith. This book uncovers their stories, blending rare archives with vivid narrative to bring back the glamour of a forgotten maritime world.

Just Good Books for Xmas

 Yes I know, where the heck does the time go, almost through September now and before we know it we will have Xmas 2025.

May I suggest a nice package of books for you, or just one at a time, they are with most good book shops or on Amazon, if overseas you may wish to go through the publishers at  Whittles Publishing - Home

However you get them, make sure you don't miss out.

Look out for Steam Yachts built at Leith, to be published in February 2026.

Remember Them All

 

4 of the best from Leith Built Ships

 

Pleased to be able to say that the fourth book in my series on the rich shipbuilding and maritime heritage of the Port of Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland is now available from all good bookstores and the usual book outlets.

You can also get all the others in the series to stock up on maritime books for Xmas.