With up to fifty ships, the Gem Line was for many years the most important coaster fleet on the British West Coast. This book does the company full justice, covering its ships, their trades, the Robertson family, reminiscences of employees, its involvement with quarrying, and also considers its performance as a business. All 107 steamers, 26 motor coasters, 13 sailing ships and 21 managed vessels are fully detailed, and wherever possible illustrated.