North Atlantic Record Breakers

The 'Blue Riband', a mythical trophy for the fastest ship on the Atlantic, has fascinated the public for almost 200 years. Like 'Titanic', it is a term which has acquired legendary status, and the two certainly have one thing in common: until very recently much that had been written about them was distorted and incorrect. This book aims to provide an accurate account of this search for speed across the Atlantic. Though the competition never existed officially, the 'Battle for the Blue Riband' was real enough, and the contest to produce the fastest ocean-going giant between the Old and New Worlds was one which was embraced by five nations. From the early paddle-steamers to the last great high-speed, four-screw turbine liners this book tells a tale of rivalry and engineering feats which embraced the commercial motivation of the great shipping lines as well as the political ambitions of governments.