Taken away from the bosom of his family in 1972, by chance, and not a little alcohol, the author is introduced to life on board a tramping coaster and thrown into a world of wonderful characters that would otherwise be ensconced in a institution more suited to the certifiable. A way of life that is unfathomable for men unlucky to be stuck ashore with families and work.

From huge deep sea bulk carriers in exotic ports to tramping coasters around the coast of Britain and Ireland the seamen sailing them are distinguishable from landlubbers by memories that can only surface when in the company of like minded souls. Then the laughter begins. This book may go some way to explain why.