"A history for sailors, for songsters, for anyone who is moved by the poetry of a tall ship under sail - moved to wonder. To wonder what life was really like for the men who sailed those lovely ships when the only way to trade across the seven seas was to be blown across, or blown to glory. The sailor's skills, dress, pay, superstitions, drink, food - and loves - are clearly described and pictured. Some 250 illustrations are integrated with the narrative and songs. Rare historical paintings, drawings and photographs of ships and ports, dives and waterfronts, deck scenes and sailors, with their Judies, Julias, and Madeleines."--Dust jacket.