Ninety Seconds at Zeebrugge

Revisiting the 1987 Zeebrugge disaster through the eyes of those involved

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The Herald of Free Enterprise car ferry set sail on a routine voyage to Dover in March 1987, carrying hundreds of passengers, including British army personnel, day-trippers and truck drivers. Minutes after leaving the Belgian port of Zeebrugge, the ferry began to capsize. Terrified passengers were separated from loved ones in a seething mass of humanity, in freezing cold water and had to fight for their lives. This is the minute-by-minute account of those who lived through the disaster, from the event to rescue, reunion and repatriation. The Belgian people are also remembered for the care and comfort they gave to the bewildered and grief-stricken survivors. Including plans, photographs and records considering how this disaster impacted ferry operating procedures forever, Iain Yardley’s thoughtful study covers every aspect of this tragedy. Many survivors, relatives and rescue workers have contributed to make this a fitting tribute to all involved from that night to the present day.