“Hovermarine – The Rise and Fall of a Pioneer in the High-Speed Marine Market” is a compelling and insightful story, looking back over one of the UK’s most innovative companies.

What was so special about Hovermarine? In the end, the company failed, and the technology did not survive, but for a moment in time it soared. When William Zebedee invested in the company in 1970 the furthest thing from his mind was doing anything more than being an investor. However, the ink from his signature on the share-purchase cheque was barely dry when the company careened into its first disaster. Somebody had to do something!

Offering a ‘warts and all’ overview, the six authors offer their considered insights and amusing anecdotes in praise of the company’s passionate and committed team, all of which elevates this book into a compelling story for the casual reader, the marine enthusiast and the budding entrepreneur.

Synopsis

This is the story of a small company in England forging a new technology, powered by plenty of enthusiasm, but by very little cash! Competing with large U.S., Russian, Italian, Scandinavian and British conglomerates, with their far superior resources, it soared.

Working almost entirely in export markets, it sold high-speed ferries and workboats into 36 different countries with a present-day sales value of over £370 million (US$500 million). Its success was born of sound technical capabilities, a highly skilled and motivated workforce immeasurable enthusiasm and an absolute refusal to accept defeat. Ultimately, and sadly, its demise lay in a clash of cultures and the emergence of new technologies.

This book is divided into two sections: Book 1 gives the view from the boardroom; Book 2 covers the viewpoint from the drivers and engineers on the front line.

Five star reviews are contained on the Amazon Books’ website as are the diverse and interesting backgrounds of each of the six authors. A recent review on the Australian Amazon website reads ” Whether or not you are interested in the technicalities of building high-speed hovercraft, you will love this book. All six authors demonstrate passion and commitment to ensure that the company succeeds in an unknown market with a limited budget. A really good read from start to finish with the storyline keeping the reader enthralled and wanting to know the outcome of each of the various deals from around the world – so much so it’s hard to put the book down. The “Living on the Edge” thrills written with a great sense of humour add up to an excellent reading experience”.