When the sailor changes from his bell-bottoms to his flared jeans, his psyche changes too. Gone is the rover, taken over by domesticated man.
' Ark' is docked and lifeless as its crew disperses into the lap of families ashore-the Fleet Chief, Tom Wilkinson , scourge of ratings, to a loyal dog and a loving wife; Capt Graham - man of decision - to the minutiae of life in his Surrey village; and L/S ' Twinkle ' Powell - ladies' man of the Spanish Main - to his mother whom he festoons with gifts. Only those without families carry on the enduring and endearing traditions and pursuits of sailors of all generations.