Can't remember book series

[Taita]

When I was a young lad I remember reading a series of books about a salvage ship captain and his ship, thriller / drama style. Each book was standalone but had links to the previous series.

I was almost certain it was Bernard Cornwell or Wilbur Smith but google informs me it isn't!

It's driving me mad as I want to read them again, can anyone shed any light?

[Taita]

YES! I think it is Clive Cussler.

Saw that Wilbur Smith one, but I knew there was a series not just one.