Cork, the largest county in Ireland, has hundreds of miles of indented coastline, which is regarded as one of the scenic jewels of the country. John M. Feehan sailed alone in a small boat around the West Cork coast in search of true peace, his land of hearts desire, his isle of the blest. The result is a book that is not only a profound spiritual odyssey but a magnificent account of the wild rugged coastline, the peaceful coves and the unique characters he met in this beautiful, unspoiled corner of Ireland. John M. Feehan writes with great charm, skill and sympathy, and with a mischievous roguish humour, often at his own expense. His sharp eye misses nothing. He sees the mystery, beauty and wonder in ordinary things, and brings situations and people vividly to life.
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, youll join Mark as he visits 310 harbours and meets 256 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 theyre 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. This challenge has so far raised 30,000 for The Seafarers Charity and all author royalties from this book will go to this charity. Perfect for sailors, history lovers and maritime professionals, the book is a treasure trove of insights into Britain and Irelands harbours. Its a detailed account of a journey describing intimate encounters, unexpected adventures and an inside look at how harbours shape our maritime heritage. If youve 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. Its packed full of over 500 colour photos recording the Harbour Masters met and the stunning beauty of the harbours themselves. Princess Anne, The Princess Royal, has written the Foreword to the book and congratulates and thanks the author for his challenge.