Steamers and Ferries of the Northern Isles

Until 2002, the main provider of ferry services to Orkney & Shetland was the North of Scotland, Orkney & Shetland Steam Navigation Company. Affectionately known as the North Company, it has had an illustrious history since its formation in 1875, including what are recognised as the very first cruises in 1886, to Norway, as well as being the first shipping line to build a purpose-built cruise ship. However, it was the provision of a ferry service from Aberdeen to the Northern Isles for which the company is best known and its Saints provided a useful service to Orkney and Shetland for over 120 years. Nowadays, the route is served by Northlink. Iain Quinn tells the story of the North Boats in words and pictures, focusing on the period from the end of the WW1 to the present day, using many illustrations published for the very first time. The early history is not forgotten, and the sinking of the St Rognvald is covered as is St Sunniva's use as a cruise ship as are the more recent P&O Scottish Ferries years.