Author Description

"Steamers of the Fjords" tells the saga of how, over the past 150 years, a remarkable transportation system probably without parallel anywhere else in the world in terms of extent and complexity, evolved in western Norway. The book traces the efforts of the early pioneer steamship owners handicapped by unreliable, under-powered craft, unpredictable traffic levels and sceptical shareholders; outlines the often bitter rivalry over claims for exclusive territories; describes the onboard conditions for passengers and crew; and examines the great changes which have been wrought of recent years thanks to the developing road network and the introduction of car ferries and high-speed catamaran services. The local steamer, to those whose livelihood depended on her services, was far more than a mere conveyance. She became an institution, a part of modern folklore, and an integral element of everyday life. Often maligned and criticised, she was nevertheless regarded with affection in much the same way as MacBraynes' steamers in the Western Highlands. "Steamers of the Fjords" is the first comprehensive English-language book to cover these diverse and fascinating shipping developments in the coastal districts of western Norway and the photographs, drawings, maps, comprehensive fleet list, time-tables and the text itself make it an important document for all those ship enthusiasts with an interest in local steamers.