Each volume begins with a general history of the vessel, as preface to a set of detailed scale drawings showing every part of the interior and exterior, from keel to masthead.
Black-and-white photographs and engravings, including of ship models for older types, round out the description.
What makes the series unique is a complete set of superbly executed line drawings, both the conventional type of plan as well as explanatory views, with fully descriptive keys.
Ships thereafter, powered by steam and screw propulsion, are represented in silver-and-blue themed dust jackets.
These include submarines, the Japanese World War II vessel, The Battleship Yamato, by Janusz Skulski, and The Aircraft Carrier Victorious, by Ross Watton.