A compendium of losses of ships around the world larger than 500 gross tons. Beginning in the 1840s during the birth of the steam age, and continuing up to the present day all passenger losses during both wartime and peacetime are recorded. Also included is a useful dictionary section which provides concise descriptions of each vessel lost, many with pictures, and the sad incidents in which they became casualties. A chronological list of the ships is provided for quick and easy reference. A final section examines several intriguing cases of near misses for ships which were severely damaged in incidents but survived to return to service. Altogether, the loss of more than 1,000 ships are recorded, with more than 700 photographs.