ABSTRACT
This chapter provides relevant history and cite examples of present-day developments along with some topics of concern voiced by mariners. Automation is being accomplished across all levels of shipping from the smallest recreational boats to the largest oil tankers, container ships, cargo carriers and cruise ships. Iron ships eventually replaced wooden ships, and steam power replaced sails in general but wind-powered ships using new technologies are being actively developed. Of greatest significance to make possible automated ships are the revolutionary changes in modern era methods and processes used in their construction. Ship designs originated to perform two distinct functions as warships and cargo ships, each with their own unique design features that made them suitable for their task. The primary method of communication between ships began in the 15th century with the appearance of systems of signal flags and pennants hoisted for communication.
