Cutty Sark

Cutty Sark: The Last of the Tea Clippers is a richly illustrated and meticulously researched celebration of one of the world’s most iconic ships. Published to mark her 150th anniversary, this expanded edition traces the vessel’s extraordinary life – from her launch in Dumbarton in 1869, through her legendary tea and wool voyages, to her restoration and rebirth at Greenwich.

Developed with the Cutty Sark Trust, the book combines chronological narrative with vivid features on crew experiences, cargoes, seamanship, ports and tall ship life. It also showcases exclusive photography from the restoration project alongside historical artefacts and fittings, providing insight into both the ship and the culture that surrounded her.

With a blend of historical storytelling and visual richness, this volume captures the enduring appeal of Cutty Sark as a symbol of maritime heritage and innovation.

About the Author

Dr Eric Kentley was formerly a curator at the National Maritime Museum, where he held a range of roles including Head of Ship Technology. He later served as Assistant Director of the Design Museum in London, and has worked independently on major interpretation projects since 2001. His involvement with Cutty Sark began in 2003 and has spanned planning, restoration and interpretation. He is the author of several books on maritime and design history.

Praise for Cutty Sark: The Last of the Tea Clippers

“Substantial and beautifully illustrated.”
– Times Literary Supplement

“A wonderfully illustrated narrative.”
– Britain