Lavishly illustrated, this is a chronicle of the yachts and other ships used by heads of state from the seventeenth century to the end of the twentieth.

Tim Madge has brought together in these pages a unique record of some of the most beautiful and unusual ships ever to set out on the high seas.

Ships Monthly -
'...a well produced, large format book telling the fascinating story of Royal and State yachts from the Nile barges of the Pharoahs to the 482-foot Saudi Royal Yacht, Abdul Aziz... Tim Madge's well-researched book brings the extraordinary phenomenon of these floating palaces vividly to life... This book is a must.'

American in Britain -
'A fascinating new book by Tim Madge...contains many rare photographs and interesting facts, not just about yachts owned by the world's Royals, but by other members of the jet set and the super-rich.'

Royalty Digest -
'..it is meticulously researched by a journalist and academic who is himself an explorer and sailor...this book must come very close to being the permanently definitive work on the subject...(it) must prove a must for virtually anyone interested in the subject.'

Nautical Magazine -
'This is a useful and handsome reference work and is highly recommended.'

Majesty -
'A unique record of the most illustrious ships of all time...'