This book reveals 5, 000 years of maritime adventure in a new compact format. From the earliest dugout canoes & the boats of the Ancient Egyptians to the most technologically advanced battleships & cruise-liners, this is the ultimate guide to every aspect of the ship, & those who have sailed them. Find out all about the endeavours of the great explorers as they mapped the globe & discovered new worlds, you'll learn the impact ships have had on trade & industry & find out all the key historical conflicts in which ships played a vital role. Plus, take a look at seafaring for pleasure & trace fishing through the ages. Every conceivable type of sea-going vessel is featured, from caravels & galleons, warships & yachts to clippers & cruise-liners. Produced in association with the National Maritime Museum.