I came across a small book that would make a great resource for those that are unfamiliar with the ships on the working waterfront. Bob Basnight had a book published in 1996 by The Lyons Press called What Ship Is That? – A Field Guide to Boats and Ships (ISBN 155821433X). The book is readily available new or used on Amazon and Barnes and Noble for as little as $2.50. This is a terrific investment in learning more about sea going ships and vessels located in the harbor.
The guide starts out with basic ship terminology and descriptions of vessel structures. A review of these terms could lead you to start sounding like an old salty dog. Basnight especially focuses on the ship features that can help with identification of a ship from a distance. The basic shape of the hull, sheer line, bows and sterns, deckhousing, superstructures, and types of cargo handling gear installed. Shapes that are readily apparent in the silhouette of a ship viewed from a distance. He explains methods of estimating size, watching vessels on the horizon and its impact, and the effect of varied viewing positions on identification. There is even a color glossary of signal flags and their multiple meanings while being flown.
Basnight divides information and descriptions on ships and boats into several broad categories. These are some examples:
- Harbor Vessels – barges, tugs and floating dry docks
- Merchant Ships – bulkers, tankers, and container vessels
- Government and Military Vessels – submarines, assault ships and buoy tenders
- Fishing Boats – draggers, seiners and longliners
- Sailboats – barks, brigs and schooners
Each vessel type is described in detail with a silhouette sketch and identification of key features. A narrative is provided about the vessel's trade and use. The book portrays the great variety of military vessels, including ready reserve and Coast Guard ships. Many types of sailboats and their unique rigging are detailed. The array of fishing vessels described is impressive.
As a Harbormaster, I know all ships will eventually come to the end of their useful lives and the author talks about the backwaters where many boats fade away. Vessels make many transitions in their use as they grow older and finally go to the breakers for disposal.
This is a great field guide for visitors to the waterfront. The book is compact and easily carried. You can become an accomplished ship spotter with a little practice at the docks. Give it a try!
