A seafaring and salvage classic
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First published in 1958, 'The Grey Seas Under' remains an excellent seafaring and salvage classic.
From the purchase in 1930 of the salvage tug 'Foundation Franklin' to her final voyage in 1948, Farley Mowat brings to life not only every North Atlantic salvage operation, but the lives of the crew, captains and owners.
Having enjoyed modern tales of salvage (such as Tew's 'Salvage - a personal odyssey' and Jolly's 'Wreck, rescue and salvage'), it was fascinating to read Mowat's description of life before SatNav, always-on communication, radar and, dare I mention it, health and safety legislation. However, the heroism and sheer seamanship of the 'Foundation Franklin' crew, together with the fluid writing style, makes for a page turner that will enthrall any marine enthusiast.
The only disappointment I had with the book has no connection with the text, which is reproduced by 'The Lyons Press' from the 1958 original. If I were in charge of this reprint publication, I would certainly have made more of an effort and researched the 18 years of the tug's life to include:
- a section in the book concerning the statistics of the tug
- a collection of photographs (the only two photographs appear on the cover) of the tug, shipyards, crew and characters.
- a proper map (the map in the book is poorly reproduced and lacks annotation)
However, 'The Grey Seas Under' will remain at the centre of my maritime book collection and is highly recommended.
With kindest regards
B'Booker
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A gripping story of life at sea
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This has to be one of the greatest stories of men against the seas ever told.
The story is freeflowing and extremely readable, Mowat's vidid imagery and excellent storytelling skills present this tale as if in picture form.
This is the incredible story of a ship and her crew and their struggle against all weathers to save and salvage all ships in distress in the inhospitable Newfoundland waters from the dark days of depression in the thirties right through WWII.This story is a must for all who love ships, the sea or just a good story
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