Ships are classified based on the type of cargo they carry and the purpose they serve. Each type of ship is designed with specific structural features and equipment to safely transport particular cargoes or passengers. Understanding ship types and their associated cargo helps seafarers perform cargo operations safely and efficiently.
| Category | Type of Ship | Type of Cargo |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Ships | General Cargo Ships | Boxes, machinery, packaged goods |
| Cargo Ships | Container Vessels | Cargo carried inside standardized containers |
| Cargo Ships | Bulk Carriers | Dry bulk cargo such as ore, grain, coal, cement |
| Cargo Ships | Oil Tankers | Crude oil and petroleum products |
| Cargo Ships | Chemical Tankers | Liquid chemicals |
| Cargo Ships | Gas Tankers | Liquefied gases such as LNG and LPG |
| Cargo Ships | Roll-on / Roll-off Vessels | Trucks, trailers, cars and other vehicles |
| Passenger Ships | Cruise Liners | Passengers and recreational facilities |
| Passenger Ships | Ferries | Passengers and vehicles on short routes |
| Other Ships | Tug Boats | Towing and assisting vessels |
| Other Ships | Offshore Supply Vessels | Supplies to offshore installations |
| Other Ships | Barges | Cargo transported on inland or coastal waters |