Maiden Voyages

Set sail on a captivating voyage through the golden age of ocean travel, where intrepid women from all walks of life transformed their destinies aboard magnificent ocean liners.
In Siân Evans's engaging social history, Maiden Voyages explores how women's lives were forever changed by the glamorous era of transatlantic journeys between Europe and North America in the early twentieth century. From celebrities and aristocrats to migrants and crew members, Evans weaves together the untold stories of female pioneers who embarked on life-altering adventures aboard these floating microcosms of society.
Step into the opulent world of first class, where icons like Marlene Dietrich, Wallis Simpson, and Josephine Baker held court. Discover the aspirations of professional women in second class, such as trailblazing interior designer Sibyl Colefax. Follow the harrowing journey of émigré Maria Riffelmacher as she escapes poverty in steerage. And marvel at the resilience of Violet "The Unsinkable Stewardess" Jessop, who survived the Titanic disaster.
Entertaining and informative, Maiden Voyages captures the essence of the jazz age through the remarkable women whose transatlantic journeys reshaped society on both sides of the Atlantic, offering a fascinating glimpse into this golden era of maritime history.