Leith Built Ships

D-Day now 82 years on

2026-06-06T06:34:06.918-07:00

Lets not forget that many young people would see the French coast on the morning of June 6th 1944,

many would never return. They gave their own futures so that we would have ours, lets not waste the days they gave to us.

New book published today

2026-06-02T11:08:13.049-07:00

Very pleased to be able to say that the latest book in the series of ships built at Leith has now been published.

Magnificent Steam Yachts of Leith, 1870–1928 (Volume 5) sails straight into the golden era of luxury at sea. Leith’s shipyards produced some of the finest steam yachts ever built—elegant, extravagant, and far ahead of their time. This book uncovers their remarkable stories through rare archival material and storytelling, a look back at a world long vanished.

All roads lead to the Port.

2026-05-25T05:04:04.752-07:00

“Some histories refuse to stay buried.”

“Every shipyard has its ghosts.”

Look out for some exiting news to arrive about my latest book release.

We will be beside one of the biggest tourist attractions in Scotland.

More will be revealed in time, so keep looking in to find out more.

Worth a Thousand words

2026-04-08T04:27:00.000-07:00

As they say a picture is worth a Thousand words, and even the cranes in the distance were crossed in a Saltire.

Sunshine on?

2026-04-06T05:27:00.000-07:00

Time to try and guess where this photograph was taken from, and for you to try and guess where the photograph was taken from (Location, Location, Location)

Look out for future news on the launch of the new book Steam yachts built at Leith, Vol-5.

Such a special place when the sun is shinning, sunshine on Leith right enough.

Leith built Ships Volume 5

2026-03-01T07:29:00.000-08:00

Step back into an era when elegance met engineering, and Scotland’s shipyards gave birth to some of the most magnificent vessels ever to grace the seas. Magnificent Steam Yachts of Leith, 1870–1928 is a richly detailed maritime history that uncovers the forgotten world of luxury steam yachts built in the bustling port of Leith.

Between the late Victorian age and the dawn of the Jazz Age, Leith’s master shipbuilders crafted floating palaces for aristocrats, industrialists, and adventurers. These yachts were more than ships—they were symbols of prestige, innovation, and the romance of the sea. My book traces their stories: from the design and craftsmanship that made them marvels of their time, to the voyages and owners that carried them across oceans and into legend.

With archival research, rare illustrations, and vivid storytelling, this work brings to life the glamour and grandeur of a bygone era. It is not only a tribute to Leith’s shipbuilding heritage but also a window into the social and cultural currents that shaped the age of steam.

Whether you are a maritime historian, a lover of Scottish heritage, or simply captivated by tales of opulence and adventure, this book offers a journey into one of the most fascinating chapters of nautical history. Volume 5 in the series will be at a good bookstore near you in April 2026.

Niche Travel Deals Has Officially Launched

2026-02-15T05:17:00.000-08:00

We’re excited to announce the launch of Niche Travel Deals — a new UK travel platform dedicated to unusual, meaningful, and story‑rich travel experiences.

For all your travel needs, from flights to holidays and cruises any travel requirements can be found at the new travel agents of nichetraveldeals.co.uk

Highly recommended with my next trip already booked with them to Sicily.

Awe the best for 2026

2026-01-01T07:05:00.000-08:00

A happy new year to one and all as we begin another year, lets hope that 2026 is a good one.

With this being the first day of 2026, how about another first, this one is from Leith.

Remember that Leith steamed across the Atlantic first, with the fine old ship Sirius.

Discover the forgotten glamour of Scotland’s steam powered palaces afloat, 1870–1928

2025-12-19T08:11:00.000-08:00

Volume 5 of the series on ships built at Leith, Scotland will continue with the release of the Magnificent Steam Yachts built at Leith.

Magnificent Steam Yachts of Leith, 1870–1928 (Volume 5) sails into the golden age of luxury at sea. From Scotland’s famed shipyards came opulent steam yachts—floating palaces that embodied wealth, innovation, and adventure. None more so than the shipyards at Leith. This book uncovers their stories, blending rare archives with vivid narrative to bring back the glamour of a forgotten maritime world.

Just Good Books for Xmas

2025-09-21T06:52:00.000-07:00

Yes I know, where the heck does the time go, almost through September now and before we know it we will have Xmas 2025.

May I suggest a nice package of books for you, or just one at a time, they are with most good book shops or on Amazon, if overseas you may wish to go through the publishers at Whittles Publishing - Home

However you get them, make sure you don't miss out.

Look out for Steam Yachts built at Leith, to be published in February 2026.

Remember Them All

2024-11-10T06:20:00.000-08:00

4 of the best from Leith Built Ships

2024-10-11T11:36:00.000-07:00

Pleased to be able to say that the fourth book in my series on the rich shipbuilding and maritime heritage of the Port of Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland is now available from all good bookstores and the usual book outlets.

You can also get all the others in the series to stock up on maritime books for Xmas.

D-Day, 80 years on

2024-06-06T04:49:00.000-07:00

The following was originally an article on my old Blog, to acknowledge the passing of 70 years since this eventful day. Now we are on at 80 years after this historic event in human history. I often wonder if we learn anything from the past when we see war in Europe once more.

June 6th, 1944 – The D-Day Landings

Operation Neptune

Was the code name given to the naval group’s task on this momentous day in 1944.

The protection of NEPTUNE from enemy counter action was essential to the success of the operation. Allied forces were most vulnerable to enemy counter action when they were embarked and at sea. Some 6,900 allied vessels, carrying approximately nine army divisions with full combat equipment, were at sea at one time. These ships were formed into around 75 convoys and groups, passing along narrow coastal lanes, moving across the channel through the narrow mine-swept channels of the allotted areas for the convoys or crowded into the congested confines of the assault area.

Had the enemy not been deterred by a comprehensive program of defence capability in the form of escort ships and of course command of the air, this enormous armada would have presented to enemy air and naval forces a very profitable target.

The largest assembly of Ships and amphibious forces ever seen were to retake Europe from the clutches of the Nazi.

Of course, along with the many ships involved, it was inevitable that some of them had been built at Leith in the Shipyards of Henry Robb Ltd.

You can read about the part played by the Bustler Class Rescue Tugs in my book by the same name available at all good book shops or on Amazon.

They then had to storm the beaches, let’s not forget the many thousands of airborne forces in action on this day and onwards.

Leith Built Ships, Vol-4- Robb Caledon (Leith Division)

2023-10-08T07:48:00.010-07:00

Hi, fellow ship enthusiasts! I have some exciting news to share with you all. My latest book, "Leith Built Ships Vol-4," is now available for pre-order directly from the publishers! I couldn't be more thrilled to bring you another volume in this series that explores the rich history of shipbuilding in Leith.

In this fourth instalment, I delve into the fascinating world of the shipyard known as Robb Caledon, specifically focusing on the Leith Division. This shipyard holds a special place in the maritime history and heritage of Leith, and I've worked hard uncovering its stories about the ships and the men who built them, not forgetting the thousands who sailed or served on a Leith Built Ship.

Throughout the pages of this book, you'll embark on a journey through time, exploring the rise and fall of Robb Caledon in Leith. From its resulting merger or takeover depends on your point of view to the closure in 1984, I've meticulously researched and documented the triumphs, challenges, and innovations that shaped this iconic shipbuilding town.

The magnificent ocean-going salvage tug Wolraad Woltemade in dry dock in Singapore.

One of the things I'm most excited about is the inclusion of captivating photographs and illustrations that bring the ships and the shipyard to life. These visuals not only enhance the storytelling experience but also allow you to truly appreciate the intricacies and craftsmanship involved in constructing these remarkable vessels.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who have supported me on this writing journey. Your enthusiasm and encouragement have been invaluable, and I can't thank you enough for your unwavering support. Pre-ordering a copy of "Leith Built Ships Vol-4" can be done directly through the publishers at Whittles Publishing, just click through the link to be taken right to the book.

I'm truly honoured to have the opportunity to share this book with you, So, if you're as passionate about shipbuilding and maritime history as I am, I invite you to pre-order "Leith Built Ships Vol-4" from the publishers today. Let's embark on this incredible journey together and celebrate the enduring legacy of Leith's shipbuilding industry.

Thank you for joining me on this adventure, and I can't wait to share this book with you soon!

MV IONA P&O Cruises to Norway

2023-06-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

MV IONA Berthed at Stavanger, Norway, its the middle of April and the weather was incredible.

You can see more great images on theloftsman website.

Leith Built Ships, Volume-IV

2023-06-12T12:41:00.001-07:00

Hi all,

If you are wondering when the next volume is due to be published then I am reliably told you need hold your breath for just a little bit longer.

It will be out soon, keep checking back and I will also be letting the world know when it is to be published.

Thanks for your patience.

From the days long before Boaty McBoatface this was the Leith built RSS Bransfield, you will be able to read all about her in the new Leith Built Ships, Vol-IV coming to a good bookshop near you soon.

(Image by Graham Mawdsley)

Portsmouth Navy Base

2023-05-01T08:32:00.002-07:00

A few weeks ago I had reason to visit the Portsmouth Navy Base, having a good look around at the museum ships was a treat, having never really had the time in the past.

It was good to get up close (or as close as they would let us) to one of the many vessels that I have worked on in my time.

The aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth was in dock and just to see the parts that I was involved in building was a great experience.

Nice view bow on showing her ramp (ski jump) and the overhanging port Sponson.

Always great to be able to see the ships that you worked on, and very impressive she is.

For more on my visit to the south coast ports see my website.

This one is a whole lot older than HMS Queen Elizabeth, HMS Victory is the oldest commissioned ship in the Royal Navy. (No I was not around when she was built)

HMS Victory showing the amazing ships carpentry around her elaborate stern, fantastic work for the shipwrights of the day.

"Write with Ron"

2023-02-06T11:27:00.006-08:00

Are you an aspiring maritime writer? Write with Ron is your one-stop shop for getting your book published! With our services, you can be sure that your book will be completed and uploaded to Amazon in no time. Whether you're writing a memoir, a novel, or a non-fiction book, Write with Ron can help you get your book out there in the world. Don't wait any longer - take the plunge and get your book published today!

Contact through the website at www.theloftsman.com/post/be-a-published-author

for more details, thanks.

More good reviews for Leith Built Ships

2023-01-29T05:44:00.002-08:00

As the heading says we have had many more very good reviews come into the publishers, who then pass on to me.

Please take a look at the following link to see them all.

Strange tales of the sea & Leith

2023-01-15T08:08:00.000-08:00

Nice bit of archive from my own pen in this story fro the Scotsman Newspaper magazine published on Saturday 14th of January 2023

All the best for 2023

2023-01-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Happy & Prosperous New Year to all, may 2023 turn out to be a fine year, should you aspire to write a book this year then contact Ron

Write with Ron

2022-12-03T06:52:00.002-08:00

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Working with a trusted team, I have produced books to a high standard, that I would never have thought possible.

I have been asked to speak on many podcasts, had my first book launch that attracted many people. Now I have had 2 non-fiction books on an Amazon best-sellers list.

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You’re going to get direct, one-to-one access to me and we’re going to tackle every problem you have together.

Once this program is complete, I will be charging far north of £3000 and it won’t include my personal one-to-one time or customised attention at anywhere near the level you’re going to get.

This new program to help you write and have edited then published book on Amazon, is being offered at a fraction of the eventual price. Your book can be fiction or non-fiction, it is your book and your choice. Your royalties and your copyright.

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Scot II sails once more, as a fine model

2022-11-19T06:33:00.000-08:00

I am very pleased to be able to tell everyone that the project to save the oldest ice-breaking tug on the Historic Ships register (U.K) is now back on. They have had a lot of problems, not to mention challenges due to Covid and other reasons.

To start the project off a nice new model of the ship has been made and we can see her in this image being trialed on the Isle of Skye.

Things are still at an early stage and with any luck I will be able to keep you all updated of progress on my Blogs and website, so please keep checking back. If you feel you can offer any help them also please contact me through the website

A good read for the Holidays

2022-11-18T12:23:00.002-08:00

Hi, With any luck you will have read my first novel "Fight or Flight" if so then you have to read the 2nd in the trilogy. Black or White is just a real good rollicking adventure tale, and is perfect for getting through some of the holiday times.

Amazon best-sellers list-Leith Built Ships, Vol-II

2022-11-03T08:53:00.002-07:00

Hi folks,

Really made up, to find another of my books has made it onto the Amazon Best-Sellers List.

Check out -

Amazon.co.uk Best Sellers: The most popular items in Boat Building Number 26 on the best-sellers list

Many thanks to all who have shown an interest or purchased one of my books, let's see how high up the list it can go.