A ship is a large, complex vessel designed for deep-water navigation, carrying cargo, passengers, or military payloads. Unlike boats, ships are typically large enough to carry their own smaller craft and have a permanent crew, independent power, and extensive onboard systems for long voyages.
Heard on the job
We've three ships scheduled to discharge at the container terminal tomorrow.
Insider tip
The classic maritime rule of thumb is that a ship can carry a boat, but a boat cannot carry a ship.