Introduction
When the Boat Comes In is a British television period drama produced by the BBC between 1976 and 1981.
Set in Gallowshields on Tyneside between the two World Wars, this story follows the life of ex-sergeant Jack Ford and the Seaton family as they deal with the aftermath of the Great War, the Great 1920s Depression and trade union activists.



Outline
Tania’s mother, Lady Leamington, gives a party to raise funds for the victims of Franco in the Spanish civil war. Billy treats Bob Randall, son of Jack’s old sergeant-major Fred, wounded fighting for the Spanish Republicans. Jack considers himself in debt to Fred who once saved his life. Jessie and Billy get Fred to persuade Jack to smuggle guns to the Republicans. Using a pleasure cruise as cover, Jack sails for Spain with Tania, Jessie, Billy and communist Nigel Scott-Palliser.
When the Boat Comes In Series
You can find a full index and overview of When the Boat Comes In here.
Production & Filming Details
- Release Date: 14 April 1981.
- Rating: 12.
- Running Time: 50 minutes (per episode).
- Country: UK.
- Language: English.