Britain can rightly claim to be one of the world's great seafaring nations, yet surprisingly little of that illustrious past has survived. Why do we try to keep old ships anyway? Are they more than just interesting curiosities?
In this eight-part series
Anthony Burton looks at working ships and maritime museums up and down the country where the beginnings of our maritime heritage are preserved and shows why the answers to these questions are fascinating and relevant. 1: Shipshape
What were the earliest ships like? How were they built? Where can the survivors be seen and what is being done to keep traditional boats in working order?
ANTHONY BURTON visits the National Maritime Museum at Greenwich, the Exeter Maritime Museum, the Windermere Steamboat Museum and the Dolphin Yard Sailing / Barge Museum.
Film editor KEITH WILTON Producer
MICHAEL GARROD f
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