I have never tried Hornblower, but the Bilitho series didn't catch me. I got about halfway through the first book, and it just felt a bit meh. Maybe I need to give it more of a chance.
It's funny you should say that - three weeks ago I went to see Victory and Warrior (and the Mary Rose). It's a crying shame that her masts aren't in place, but I did get to walk under her and see her keel which was incredible, especially when you consider that if only 20% of her is original, that part is most likely in that 20%. Even if the masts were back, I doubt, however, I would ever get to climb the ratlines!
My favourite place to drink is in sight of the Cutty Sark too as I am only 20 minutes away from Greenwich.
I read that Patrick O'Brian used to read all the diaries of naval captains from that era. Do you know if it's possible for just anyone to access the archives in Greenwich or do you have to be on a special project?
That's very useful knowledge on tiller boats - thank you.