A ship is not just a mode of transport, it is a life support system. Ideally, it provides fresh air at a comfortable temperature and humidity, healthy food and drink, adequate lighting at night and below deck (but without setting the ship on fire or interfering with navigation), and sleeping and sanitation facilities. It must be kept dry and afloat. Provision must be made for disasters, whether that be a man overboard, or the ship itself sinking or running aground. Fires and contagious diseases must be fought if they arise.

The quest to improve life at sea has progressed, albeit haltingly, on two parallel fronts. The first is analyzing the problems and finding and implementing scientific solutions. The second is by changes in laws and regulations so as to require healthier practices. This book, with a unique problem-solution format, examines the problems of life at sea and how they have been ameliorated.