The Fabulous Flotilla: Scotland's Adventure on the Rivers of Burma

The Irrawaddy Flotilla Company was the largest privately-owned fleet of ships in the world, owned by Scots and operated in colonial Burma. Over 1,200 ships were ordered from Clyde yards, carrying the majority of Burma's population on its river network without loss of life. The paddle steamers were innovative in design and technology and were among the largest in the world. The flotilla began as a naval task force in the 1820s and was commandeered in five wars before ending its life with the British evacuation of Burma in 1942. The author of the book, who has spent much of his life running ships on the rivers of Burma, takes us on a journey 1,000 miles upriver to explore the different regions of the country, highlighting Scottish connections. Burma, renamed Myanmar in 1997, is Scotlands 'lost colony' and the Scottish connection is little remembered today due to Burmas half-century of post-war isolation. The Irrawaddy watershed is under threat from deforestation and China's 'belt and road system' plans to build one of the world's largest dams in the rivers headwaters. The Fabulous Flotilla provides a revealing record of this remarkable era in Burmas history and past Scottish endeavour.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 12 December 2022
Publisher: Whittles Publishing

The Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, a remarkable enterprise in colonial Burma, was the largest privately-owned fleet of ships in the world. This Scottish venture, with nearly all its investors, management, and ship officers hailing from Scotland, stood as a testament to the country's maritime prowess. With over 1,200 ships ordered mainly from Clyde yards, the flotilla played a pivotal role in transporting the majority of Burma's population on its river network, achieving an unprecedented record of safety. The paddle steamers, among the largest and most innovative in their design and technology, were also visually stunning.

The flotilla's origins trace back to its formation as a naval task force in the 1820s, undergoing commandeered operations in five wars. Ultimately, it concluded its remarkable journey with the British evacuation of Burma in 1942, which remains the largest evacuation in British military history. Throughout Strachan's vivid descriptions, fascinating personalities emerge, showcasing the remarkable commanders and key players who shaped the flotilla's history.

Over a span of a hundred years, the ships underwent a remarkable transformation, evolving into riverine versions of ocean liners. These vessels featured luxurious cabins, restaurants, shops, and even post offices, catering to the diverse needs of passengers. The largest class of ships, known as the "palace boats," accommodated 5,000 passengers, including royalty, celebrities of the day, renowned writers like Somerset Maugham, early tourists, and big game hunters.

In the second part of the book, the author, himself a seasoned ship captain who has spent a significant portion of his life navigating the rivers of Burma, embarks on a captivating 1,000-mile journey upstream. This journey offers a profound exploration of the various regions of Burma, often highlighting Scottish connections. The river serves as a thread that weaves together Burmas often tragic history, yet rich and glorious Buddhist culture. It is only through a river journey that one can fully comprehend the essence of this captivating country.

Renamed Myanmar in 1997, Burma holds a special place in Scotland's history as its "lost colony." However, the Scottish connection has faded over the past half-century due to Burma's period of post-war isolation. The flotilla's legacy, however, remains a testament to the enduring ties between Scotland and Burma, a connection that deserves to be celebrated and preserved.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 170 x 241 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849955324