"Kent Ports and Harbours charts the changes that have occurred over the last 400 years to the Kent ports and their associated shipping industries. It covers the development from naval dockyard to commercial port that took place at Chatham and Sheerness, along with the growth of the well-known seaside towns such as Margate and Ramsgate which expanded as the paddle steamers reduced the dangers of sea travel. Starting with the sailing vessels fishing or carrying small cargoes and finishing with the modern ferries, tankers, car carriers and container ships of today, this highly illustrated book emphasises the variety of seafarers, craft and harbour environments that can be found in Kent waters."--Provided by the publisher.