Sails of the centuries

SAILING ships once filled wharfs and docks on the Mersey and in ports throughout the world before steamships drove them to near extinction.

- Stephen Guy

The thrill of moving under sail is now largely confined to yachting enthusiasts, but a few big sailing ships survive.

The vanished world of sail required crews to be tough and fit. Handling canvas in all weathers called for concentrated team efforts.

We still use expressions linked to our sailing heritage, such as Knowing the Ropes, Splicing the Mainbrace and Making Heavy Weather.

Crews experienced great variety under sail because of the vagaries of the weather. Even leaving port was dependent on fair winds and suitable tides.

In some parts of the world, the doldrums could delay voyages as ships floated motionless, with not the faintest breeze to fill their sails.