Harbours And Their Masters

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 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.

About the Author

Mark Ashley-Miller was commissioned into the army at 18 and immediately sent on a sailing course while waiting to be deployed, following which he crewed on army and friends’ yachts. After ten years in the military, he moved into farming and then set up one of the first UK e-commerce companies selling unusual gifts, which he sold in 2017. This allowed him to buy a boat and start planning the Harbour Master Sailing Challenge.

Praise for Harbours And Their Masters

“This is an impressive voyage which noses into some of the trickiest harbours around our shores. Harbour masters are rarely given credit, but without masters to manage them there would be no harbours. I shall think more kindly of them after reading this hugely engaging, and historically compelling, book.” Paul Heiney, Commodore, Royal Cruising Club

“Mark's book gives an understanding of how much our maritime nation depends on the sea." Captain Sir Ian McNaught, former Deputy Master of Trinity House

"Perhaps the most awe-inspiring circumnavigation that I have come across." Sam Steele, Author of UK & Ireland Circumnavigator’s Guide

“This charming book is a record of the author’s amazing achievement in sailing to nearly every harbour in the British Isles. It is also a fascinating read for all sailors and those interested in sailing and the sea.” Robin Baron, President, Cruising Association