We study the history of the Russian state, wars, culture. But there is also maritime history. Even in time immemorial, our ancestors were skilled sailors, plowed the waves of the Baltic, Black Seas, the harsh expanses of the Arctic Ocean. And then the regular fleet of Russia began to win brilliant victories over enemies. Winds inflated Russian sails in the most remote corners of the globe, Russian sailors made great discoveries in long and dangerous voyages. They covered themselves with fame in the First World War, the Great Patriotic War. The new book of the famous writer-historian Valery Shambarov is a unique maritime history of Russia, from ancient times to the present day. And it is written in a simple and fascinating language accessible to any student. It will become a reference book for everyone who is close and interested in sea romance.