When the ancient Egyptians build the first model ship, a crude replica of the original, seldom anyone knew that one day it is going to become a favored and flourishing industry. While with the advent of speedier and at times more convenient transporting medium like the airplanes, and also arrival of their supersonic counterparts on the defense front, the importance of ships are going down, the age long attraction of men for water still keeps them alive. Moreover, when it comes to carrying cargo, no other modern vehicle is yet a real substitute for the ships; rest aside the beautiful and exotic luxury liners for passengers seeking pleasure trips. Thus model ships and boats continue to be constructed even to day and the profession continues to be one of the most sought after in the commercial world. 

While wooden model ships were integral part of burial rituals of the ancient Egyptians and Babylonians. During the 12th through the 15th century A.D the model ships were used as symbols of blessings by the Church in Europe and other countries. Most of these models were crudely made and excepting the exterior, rarely resembled the original faithfully. 

Well-designed and beautifully constructed model ships made their appearance when the ship builders tried to display how they were going to build their ships.  Gradually however, model ship and boat building evolved into an art and gave avenues to many exceptional craftsmen to display their skill and merit. The art has flourished into a skill in demand in the world today.