
Step aboard a floating lighthouse and discover a world few have ever seen. The narrator, granted a rare week on the Gull‑stream, shares vivid observations of the cramped yet sturdy “home” that drifts over the treacherous Goodwin Sands, guiding ships with a brilliant carbuncle‑like light. Through his eyes we meet the seasoned crew—captains, mates, and the hardy men who keep the beacon alight—while learning the practical duties that keep the coast safe.
Beyond the technical details, the story captures the rugged camaraderie of those who patrol the sea, from the daring lifeboat coxswain to the vigilant harbour masters. Atmospheric scenes of storm‑swept evenings and the glow of the floating light set a tone of both wonder and danger. Listeners are invited to glimpse the daily rhythm, the folklore, and the quiet heroism that define life on these wandering beacons, all without revealing the later twists that await.
Language
en
Duration
~8 hours (506K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Nick Hodson of London, England
Release date
2007-06-07
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1825–1894
A Scottish adventure writer whose stories of survival, exploration, and moral courage thrilled generations of young readers. Best known for The Coral Island, he drew on real experience and a gift for vivid storytelling to bring distant worlds to life.
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