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World Ship Society

The Global Voice of Maritime History

Global Chapters, International Est. 1946 4,500+ members
Branches
Global — 40+ countries
Journal
Marine News — Monthly
Records
Comprehensive ship database
Founded
1946, International

About the Organization

Founded in 1946 in the aftermath of the Second World War, the World Ship Society is one of the world's largest maritime organizations, with branches and members on every continent. Its founding mission — to record, document, and celebrate the ships of the world — remains as vital today as it was in its founding year.

The Society publishes Marine News, a monthly journal covering all aspects of merchant and passenger shipping from historic vessels to the contemporary fleet. Its central record office maintains a database of ships that is among the most comprehensive in existence.

Local branches organize regular meetings, port visits, and ship inspections, providing members with unparalleled access to the working maritime world. The WSS is the connective tissue of the global maritime enthusiast community.