Harbours And Their Masters

Sailing into (nearly) every harbour in Britain & Ireland 

Harbours And Their Masters is the untold story of the Harbour Master and the harbours they manage.   

For five years, Mark Ashley-Miller set out on an extraordinary voyage, navigating 9,000 nautical miles to visit every corner of the British Isles. His mission? To uncover the hidden world of our harbours and Harbour Masters—those dedicated professionals who safeguard our ports and keep maritime trade flowing. 

In this captivating book, you’ll join Mark as he visits 310 harbours and meets 258 Harbour Masters. Through carefully recorded interviews they reveal to him their unique challenges, stories, and traditions. From ancient ‘Haveners’ to modern-day CEOs, their role has evolved over centuries, yet their influence remains as vital as ever. Whether they’re handling burning container ships, managing storm-ravaged harbour walls or juggling the ever-changing demands of commercial shipping, these unsung heroes work tirelessly behind the scenes. 

Perfect for sailors, history lovers and maritime professionals, the book is a treasure trove of insights into Britain and Ireland’s harbours. It's a detailed account of a journey describing intimate encounters, unexpected adventures and an inside look at how harbours shape our maritime heritage. 

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing around the British Isles, exploring maritime history, or understanding the vital work of those who keep our harbours safe, this is the book for you. It’s packed full of over 500 colour photos recording the Harbour Masters met and the stunning beauty of the harbours themselves.