From Pirate to Pilot

Stephen Carter has enjoyed a maritime career spanning over 50 years, building a knowledge of the Island Ports and Irish Sea that is second to none. Stephen was Chief Pilot for many years and Captain of the Parish of Lonan. Stephen recalls his childhood days growing up in Douglas, describing some of the pranks that he and others used to get up to. Many buildings long since demolished are mentioned.

The formation of his Laxey Towing Company is told in this fascinating book. Many of the tasks undertaken are described in considerable detail within these pages, from his younger days with rowing boats in Douglas Bay, through to towing barges across to both adjacent Islands, rescues at sea and on Island work with a fleet of heavy haulage trucks and cranes. There are many stories of Piloting vessels of all sizes into and out of the Island harbours, some highlighting the dire consequences of getting it wrong!

In telling these stories, many local names are recorded, those who worked for the Laxey Towing Company, some that still do, Harbours staff, Captains of the vessels piloted, even the local landlords get mentioned. Plenty of vessel names are included making this book a valuable resource.

A5 softback. 318 pages.