Description:
The naval architect has mastered the art of engineering large-scale ocean-going vessels.
However the ever-changing regulation, propulsion and material technologies have meant secondary functions such as habitation, passenger experience and aesthetic consideration have been systematically engineered out of the core routine.
The contemporary and complex art of ship design can be enriched with further thought and consideration towards aesthetics. Not only to improve the appearance of a ship, but also to add to function and functionality. In terms of beauty and pleasure, all types of vessels can benefit from aesthetic consideration, to address „crew retention‟ make „sea days‟ more attractive or to improve overall visual appeal, helping us reclaim the Naval Architect as „Artist‟ and as principal „Architect‟ of the ship.
Enabling the designer to tailor aesthetic criteria to each case or type, throughout all features and philosophy, improving commercial and ethical value throughout design, promoting „good-design‟, that appeals to the wider audience as a classic or significant ship, attracting sponsors, owners and passengers to design with „good taste‟. Conclusion Using a design philosophy based on natures sharing out of the parts and functions, the humanities and the philosophy of aesthetics can help us understand the ineffable, mysterious and sometimes taboo topics of whether a ship is beautiful or not