The ships we see these days are large, sturdy, self-propelled vessels used to transport cargo across seas and oceans.
In the ancient times of the sea, people used rafts, bamboo poles, bundles of reeds, air-filled animal skins, to cross small bodies of water.
To be precise, the first boat was covered expertly with sewn hides and lashed together by simple frame of sticks.
In historical times, the oar was not in use. Instead, human beings used their arms to paddle alongside of their tiny boats.
It replaced human muscle movement, could carry heavier loads, and travel long distances and for this sails are considered the greatest invention of maritime history.
Phoenicians deserve special mention in maritime history because they were very likely the forerunners of the wooden sailing ships.
Around 1000 AD, famous Viking longships were permitted to sail to the Mediterranean Sea. These ships were wider and featured a more advanced mast step design.
Today, ships are used for a wide range of purposes, including transportation of goods, military operations, and leisure activities such as cruising.
Advances in technology continue to shape the design and capabilities of ships, making them safer, faster and more efficient than ever before.