mindmap root((船舶)) boat is sometimes applied generally to all such structures, but more specifically denotes a small, typically open structure operated by oars, paddles, poles, sails, or a motor: took the ~ without any paddles. vessel suggests chiefly a large seagoing boat used to contain or transport persons or commodities or to serve as a base of operation: a fleet of fishing ~s. ship stresses the navigational aspect of a large seagoing vessel and has connotations of individuality and romance: the beauty of the great sailing ~s. craft applies to any boat or ship that plies the water and is often a vague or general term: small ~ darting in all directions.