Why do we call ships "she"? Well, partly because men have always depended on them but also because they are so beautiful.
From warships to yachts to glitzy cruise ships, shipyards around the world have turned out some real stunners over the years.
The cruise guru Jane Archer enlists the help of some maritime experts to draw up a shortlist of the most beautiful vessels in the world, past and present. Click through the gallery of stunners above and let us know of anything you think should be added to the selection.
