A History of Ocean Liners in 50 Objects

by Mark Berry

Explore the history of ocean liners through the objects that bring them to life. Liners represented the ambitions of their nations in peace and war; their design, interiors, and fittings incorporated the finest contemporary technological and artistic features. In peacetime they carried celebrities, vacationers, and emigrants; while in war they carried thousands of troops—and then war brides seeking new lives. A History of Ocean Liners in 50 Objects takes in evolving technology, supreme luxury, and fine cuisine, as well as hardship and the burning hope for a better life. There is peril, disaster, and death, international pride and competition, glory and war. The objects tell a fascinating story, showing how the functional sea voyage has evolved from the late 19th and early 20th century to the huge cruise industry we have today.

Genres: Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2020

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Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first half of the book is a chronological list of important liners. The objects which go with these are not really mentioned. The second half the objects link to activities on liners such as cocktails or passengers. This half sometimes felt like the author was selling cruises. Overall some things were interesting but I wouldn’t call it a history. Also don’t read if you’re travelling on a cruise soon. It’s full of shipwrecks and disasters.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

A highly interesting history of various ocean liners through their objects, from the famous such as Titanic and Queen Mary to the more obscure such as SS Rex and SS Waratah, now lost to history.

I found the book fascinating and learnt a lot about ocean liners of the 19th and 20th century and their history.

[Heather A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting read

Interesting quick guide on the various ocean liners built in the
short history of the class of vessel between the steam engine and air travel.

[Presley Roush · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love me a book about ocean liners but this one was so insightful with quick facts on various ships and cool artifacts I had never heard of. Great for ship nerds haha.

[Chris Aylott · Rating 3 out of 5]

While Mark Berry gets a little too focused on reciting the vital statistics of the many ships discussed, his selection of artifacts from the golden age of ocean liners is fascinating. I would have happily read about fifty more of these objects, especially if they came with more pictures showing the interior designs of the ships.

Even my younger daughter was drawn into the romance of the sea when I read sections out loud to her, though I'm not sure she really comprehends how much larger and more ornate these ships were compared to the little overnight ferry she has experienced herself. She especially enjoyed "ordering her breakfast" from the sample menu in the book.