The following outline is provided as an overview of and topical guide to ships:

A ship is a large vessel that travels the world's oceans and other navigable waterways, carrying cargo or passengers, or in support of specialized missions, such as defense, research and fishing. Ships are generally distinguished from boats, based on size, shape, load capacity and purpose. Ships have supported exploration, trade, warfare, migration, colonization, and science. Ship transport is responsible for the largest portion of world commerce.

Ships can be described as all of the following:

• a means of transportation
  • a type of vehicle
    • a mode of maritime transport
      • a type of watercraft
• mobile infrastructure

See also: Maritime history and Ancient maritime history

History of ships

• Ships of ancient Rome

Shipbuilding