Naval architecture

Naval architects design safe, useful or beautiful ships and boats for their clients. For details of construction techniques see shipbuilding and boat building.

Beauty

A vessel has three lines that define most of its beauty. The coaming line is the line of the top of the hull. The silhouette defines how the superstructure looks. The entry line defines how the bow looks.

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In general, the lines should remind a viewer of each other. A low silhouette is pleasing, and also reduces danger from wind,.

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Most naval architects specialize in one or a few types of vessels. Common specialties include:

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• Commercial
• Tugboat
• Fireboat
• Ferry
• Container ship
• Tanker
• Cruise ship
• Military vessels
• Minesweeper
• Frigate
• Aircraft carrier
• Pleasure craft
• Sailing Yacht
• Motor yacht
• Racing Yacht
• Historical vessels