This ships timeline infographic depicts the Timeline of Ships and Yachts. Ships and boats are two of the oldest modes of transportation, dating back thousands of years. Ships and crafts have been used for various purposes throughout history, including transportation of cargo, fishing, as a form of defense against armed forces, sports, leisure, and relaxation. Ships, boats, and yachts are built today with advanced technology and materials that differ greatly from those used throughout history. The ancient Egyptians used reeds to construct what are thought to be the world's first sailing boats. On the Nile, reed boats with sails and a mast were used.
