Nov 23, 2022 · Fishing Boats on the Beach at Saintes-Maries (1888) by Vincent van Gogh; Vincent van Gogh, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons . Warship and sailboat paintings have always been popular subjects. This is likely due to the fact that ships have played such an important role in the development of civilization. ... Dec 15, 2016 · Paintings of Sailboats. Author: Ali Wisch. Updated: Aug 2, 2017. Original: ... (CCA) is a collection of 1,400 ocean sailors with extensive offshore seamanship ... ... Nov 15, 2021 · Sailboats, regatta at Argenteuil, 1874 Claude Monet (1840–1926) Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons. Monet used the same pale palette for the sky, the sailboats and the river, adding tints of red for the houses to break the uniformity. Sky and water are dappled, and the boats are appear bunched together as they move gracefully along the river. ... Sailboat Painting Blue Ocean Oil Painting on Canvas Original Ship Art Seascape White Blue Painting Nautical Painting Sailing Boat Wall Art (212) Sale Price $496.50 $ 496.50 ... ">

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Sailboat Paintings

Featuring all kinds of sailboats, from sloops to schooners and yachts to yawls, this collection of paintings has something for everyone. these pieces of art invoke deep emotion with pictures of stormy weather, sleepy harbors and majestic, three-masted ships. with so many different styles and motifs to choose from, sailing enthusiasts can find the perfect piece for their collection. ... more.

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Sunset Calm in the Bay of Fundy

Sunset Calm in the Bay of Fundy by William Bradford

William Bradford

Wall Art - Painting - New Yorker Cover - June 13th, 1959 by Arthur Getz

New Yorker Cover - June 13th, 1959

New Yorker Cover - June 13th, 1959 by Arthur Getz

Arthur Getz

Wall Art - Painting - Perfectly Peaceful Nantucket by Joyce Hicks

Perfectly Peaceful Nantucket

Nantucket Sea Roses by Joyce Hicks

Joyce Hicks

Wall Art - Painting - Summer Regatta by Julia Purinton

Summer Regatta

Summer Regatta by Julia Purinton

Julia Purinton

Wall Art - Painting - Sailing a Dory by Winslow Homer

Sailing a Dory

Sailing a Dory by Winslow Homer

Winslow Homer

Wall Art - Painting - Path in the Wheat at Pourville by Claude Monet

Path in the Wheat at Pourville

The Beach at Sainte Adresse by Claude Monet

Claude Monet

Wall Art - Painting - Bermuda Cove #2 by Paul Brent

Bermuda Cove #2

Beach Cruiser by Paul Brent

Sea Breeze Trail

Sea Breeze Trail by Chuck Pinson

Chuck Pinson

Wall Art - Painting - Girl At The Ocean by Irina Sztukowski

Girl At The Ocean

Girl At The Ocean by Irina Sztukowski

Irina Sztukowski

476 Designs

Wall Art - Painting - Lighthouse Sail by Karla Gerard

Lighthouse Sail

Lighthouse Sail by Karla Gerard

Karla Gerard

Wall Art - Painting - A passing squall by Gary Giacomelli

A passing squall

Evening on Malaspina Strait by Gary Giacomelli

Gary Giacomelli

Wall Art - Painting - Sailing on the Sound by Steve Henderson

Sailing on the Sound

Sailing on the Sound by Steve Henderson

Steve Henderson

Wall Art - Painting - Yellow Sailboat and Coronado Boathouse by Mary Helmreich

Yellow Sailboat and Coronado Boathouse

Yellow Sailboat and Coronado Boathouse by Mary Helmreich

Mary Helmreich

Wall Art - Painting - Set Free- Sailboat Painting by Linda Woods

Set Free- Sailboat Painting

Set Free- Sailboat Painting by Linda Woods

Linda Woods

Wall Art - Painting - Subtle Mist 1 by Carol Robinson

Subtle Mist 1

sundrenched sails by Carol Robinson

Carol Robinson

Wall Art - Painting - Broad Reach by Paul Krapf

Broad Reach

On a Reach by Paul Krapf

White Sabot

White Sabot by Amy Kirkpatrick

Amy Kirkpatrick

Wall Art - Painting - Full Sail I #1 by Jane Slivka

Full Sail I #1

Full Sail I by Jane Slivka

Jane Slivka

Wall Art - Painting - Sailing Away by Lucie Bilodeau

Sailing Away

Sailing Away by Lucie Bilodeau

Lucie Bilodeau

Wall Art - Painting - Bathers at Bellport #4 by William James Glackens

Bathers at Bellport #4

Bathers at Bellport by William James Glackens

William James Glackens

Wall Art - Painting - Sailing At Sunset I by Patricia Pinto

Sailing At Sunset I

Sailing At Sunset I by Patricia Pinto

Patricia Pinto

Wall Art - Painting - Coastal Lullaby by Hailey E Herrera

Coastal Lullaby

Coastal Lullaby by Hailey E Herrera

Hailey E Herrera

Wall Art - Painting - Sailing Ship Fighting Waves And Storm In The Sea, Ships Vintage Collection, No 01 by Mounir Khalfouf

Sailing Ship Fighting Waves And Storm In The Sea, Ships Vintage Collection, No 01

Sailing Ship Fighting Waves And Storm In The Sea, Ships Vintage Collection, No 01 by MOUNIR KHALFOUF

MOUNIR KHALFOUF

Wall Art - Painting - Inlet with Sailboat, Maine 1913 by Maurice Prendergast

Inlet with Sailboat, Maine 1913

Inlet with Sailboat, Maine 1913 by Maurice Prendergast

Maurice Prendergast

Wall Art - Painting - Giverny by Mindy Sommers

Mindy Sommers

Wall Art - Painting - Sailboats I by South Social D

Sailboats I

Sailboats I by South Social D

South Social D

Wall Art - Painting - Regatta On The Sea by Dan Meneely

Regatta On The Sea

Regatta On The Sea by Dan Meneely

Dan Meneely

Wall Art - Painting - Autumn Harbor by David Rogers

Autumn Harbor

Autumn Harbor by David Rogers

David Rogers

Wall Art - Painting - Rough Seas by Juan Bosco

Vibrant sailboats

Vibrant sailboats by Mango Art

Moored Boats on San Diego Harbor

Moored Boats on San Diego Harbor by Paul Strahm

Paul Strahm

Wall Art - Painting - Sunset Sailboat diptitch by Laurie Snow Hein

Sunset Sailboat diptitch

Summer Memories by Laurie Snow Hein

Laurie Snow Hein

Wall Art - Painting - North Carolina Sailboats by Dorrie Rifkin

North Carolina Sailboats

North Carolina Sailboats by Dorrie Rifkin

Dorrie Rifkin

Wall Art - Painting - sail boat a Manarola by Guido Borelli

sail boat a Manarola

sail boat a Manarola by Guido Borelli

Guido Borelli

Wall Art - Painting - Menominee Marina by Ryan Radke

Menominee Marina

Menominee Marina by Ryan Radke

Sailing Takes Me Away

Sailing Takes Me Away by Tina LeCour

Tina LeCour

Wall Art - Painting - Afternoon by the Sea, Gravesend Bay 1888 by William Merritt Chase

Afternoon by the Sea, Gravesend Bay 1888

Afternoon by the Sea, Gravesend Bay 1888 by William Merritt Chase

William Merritt Chase

Wall Art - Painting - Sailing Day by My Head Cinema

Sailing Day

Sailing Day by My Head Cinema

My Head Cinema

Wall Art - Painting - Abstract Golden Sailboat Painting with Water Reflections by Clark Leffler

Abstract Golden Sailboat Painting with Water Reflections

Abstract Golden Sailboat Painting with Water Reflections by Clark Leffler

Clark Leffler

Wall Art - Painting - Maryland Blue Crab by Debbie DeWitt

Maryland Blue Crab

Maryland Blue Crab by Debbie DeWitt

Debbie DeWitt

Wall Art - Painting - A view from the pier by Mick Williams

A view from the pier

A view from the pier by Mick Williams

Mick Williams

Wall Art - Painting - Sailing on Puget Sound by Diane McClary

Sailing on Puget Sound

Diane McClary

Wall Art - Painting - Beach Time Step 01 by Janelle Penner

Beach Time Step 01

Beach Time I Christmas by Janelle Penner

Janelle Penner

Wall Art - Painting - Cutty Sark by Jack Spurling

Jack Spurling

Wall Art - Painting - Ostsee Schoner - Baltic Schooner by Lyonel Feininger by Lyonel Feininger

Ostsee Schoner - Baltic Schooner by Lyonel Feininger

Ostsee Schoner - Baltic Schooner by Lyonel Feininger by Lyonel Feininger

Lyonel Feininger

Wall Art - Painting - Driftwood Coast II by Sue Schlabach

Driftwood Coast II

Driftwood Coast Ii by Sue Schlabach

Sue Schlabach

Wall Art - Painting - Ocean Symphony in Turquoise and Orange by Lourry Legarde

Ocean Symphony in Turquoise and Orange

Ocean Symphony in Turquoise and Orange by Lourry Legarde

Lourry Legarde

Wall Art - Painting - Hoek #1 by Curt Crain

Ocean Sail V2 Light

Ocean Sail V2 Light by Albena Hristova

Albena Hristova

Wall Art - Painting - Sailboats Vii by Chris Paschke

Sailboats Vii

Sailboats Vii by Chris Paschke

Chris Paschke

Wall Art - Painting - Sailboats At Sunrise Crop by Danhui Nai

Sailboats At Sunrise Crop

Sunrise Sailboats Ii Nautical by Danhui Nai

Seaside Village II

Seaside Village Ii by Laura Marshall

Laura Marshall

Wall Art - Painting - Coastal Baby Pattern Xxx by Beth Grove

Coastal Baby Pattern Xxx

Summer Paws Ii No Words by Beth Grove

Sailboats II

Sailboats Ii by David Carter Brown

David Carter Brown

Wall Art - Painting - Majestic Sailboat by James Wiens

Majestic Sailboat

Majestic Sailboat by James Wiens

James Wiens

Wall Art - Painting - Coastal Buoys IIi V2 by Anne Tavoletti

Coastal Buoys IIi V2

Coastal Buoys Iii V2 by Anne Tavoletti

Anne Tavoletti

Wall Art - Painting - Sailboat Simplicity II by Silvia Vassileva

Sailboat Simplicity II

Sailboat Simplicity Ii by Silvia Vassileva

Silvia Vassileva

Wall Art - Painting - Bon Voyage Boat by Michael Mullan

Bon Voyage Boat

Beachscape Collage I by Michael Mullan

Michael Mullan

Wall Art - Painting - At The Regatta I Sail Sq #1 by Courtney Prahl

At The Regatta I Sail Sq #1

At The Regatta I Sail Sq by Courtney Prahl

Courtney Prahl

Wall Art - Painting - In The Moment Vii by Lisa Audit

In The Moment Vii

In The Moment I by Lisa Audit

Mary Jean Weber

Wall Art - Painting - Spirit by Jeanette Vertentes

Jeanette Vertentes

Wall Art - Painting - Sunday On The Coast Iv #1 by Pela

Sunday On The Coast Iv #1

Sunday On The Coast Iv by Pela

Ship In A Bottle Ahoy Shiplap

Ship In A Bottle Adventure Shiplap by Sara Zieve Miller

Sara Zieve Miller

Wall Art - Painting - Lighthouse Sail Crop by Melissa Averinos

Lighthouse Sail Crop

Lighthouse Sail Crop by Melissa Averinos

Melissa Averinos

Wall Art - Painting - Cabanas I Pastel by Phyllis Adams

Cabanas I Pastel

Cabanas I Pastel by Phyllis Adams

Phyllis Adams

Wall Art - Painting - Natural Seashore I #1 by Daphne Brissonnet

Natural Seashore I #1

Primitive Sea V Dark by Daphne Brissonnet

Daphne Brissonnet

Wall Art - Painting - Sunday Morning Sail by Carol Rowan

Sunday Morning Sail

Sunday Morning Sail V2 by Carol Rowan

Carol Rowan

Wall Art - Painting - Sandy Point #1 by Avery Tillmon

Sandy Point #1

Setting Sail by Avery Tillmon

Avery Tillmon

Wall Art - Painting - Hong Kong Vintage Travel Poster by Vintage Travel Poster

Hong Kong Vintage Travel Poster

Hong Kong Vintage Travel Poster by Vintage Travel Poster

Vintage Travel Poster

Featuring all kinds of sailboats, from sloops to schooners and yachts to yawls, this collection of paintings has something for everyone. These pieces of art invoke deep emotion with pictures of stormy weather, sleepy harbors and majestic, three-masted ships. With so many different styles and motifs to choose from, sailing enthusiasts can find the perfect piece for their collection.

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10 Most Famous Ship Paintings

One of the most iconic painting niches in the world is that of ship paintings. For centuries, the world’s seas were dominated by various nations who sent trading vessels and warships out into the blue horizon.

Over many years, these ships became the lifeblood of the economies of certain countries like Portugal and Great Britain, their crews bringing and delivering precious cargo of all kinds.

Ships of all shapes and sizes have sailed the seas for more than a thousand years. The juxtaposition of a sophisticated man-made ship with the unpredictable and dangerous nature of the ocean and Mother Nature itself is part of what draws the admiration of so many art lovers and enthusiasts, especially along coastal regions.

Many artists throughout history have dabbled in producing works that featured ships and their legendary voyages on the high seas with some focusing solely on the subject of maritime travel. Here are some of the most famous ship paintings ever created.

Famous Ship Paintings

1. the fighting temeraire tugged to her last berth to be broken up   – j.m.w turner.

The Fighting Temeraire Tugged to her Last Berth to be Broken Up

One of J.M.W. Turner’s most famous paintings involves a well-known warship that was the star of at least one iconic battle for the British Royal Navy in the 18th century. His work is titled The Fighting Temeraire Tugged to her last Berth to be Broken Up, a lackluster, but fitting description of the fate of this once feared vessel that was pivotal to the nation’s fleet of warships.

The painting was done in 1839 and depicts the final moments of the Temeraire as it is slowly tugged out to sea to be dashed and parted out.

The painting is from the Romanticism era and is an interesting contrast between the changing technologies that were happening in maritime shipbuilding and travel during the early 1800’s.

The majestic and once-famous warship, who played a major role at the Battle of Trafalgar, is now being dragged away from port by a lowly, steam-powered tugboat.

It is a sad reminder that a certain sense of elegance and grandeur is often lost in what many deem to be a progressive advance of technology.

2. A First Rate Man-of-War Driven Onto a Reef of Rocks, Floundering in a Gale – George Philip Reinagle

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

The early 1800’s is likely the height of the era of famous ship paintings. One of the most well-known maritime painters was George Philip Reinagle, who was well-known for his ability to capture the essence of the sea’s sometimes tumultuous character that had destroyed so many powerful, strong vessels throughout history.

His 1836 work titled A First Rate Man-of-War Driven Onto a Reef of Rocks, Floundering in a Gale is aptly-named as it features just that—a ship that has been caught in the clutches of the raging sea.

One of the most intriguing aspects of maritime travel was the possibility that sailors could meet a terrifying demise if they were caught in a blustering storm, otherwise known as a gale.

This painting is iconic for Reinagle’s ability to depict the giant, crushing force of the waves along with the sea spray that has been kicked up by the high winds. This work is a grim reminder that not all seafaring travel and adventure ends safely.

Many ocean paintings containing ships will invariably make the ship the main focus, but in Reinagle’s piece it is the power of the ocean waves that dominate.

3. Battle of Trafalgar 1805 – Louis Phillipe Crepin

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

Some of the most famous ship paintings involve intense, deadly battles at sea between powerful naval fleets. Such is the case with Louis Phillipe Crepin’s 1805 work titled Battle of Trafalgar.

This painting depicts one of the most famous naval battles in history that took place in the year noted.

The Battle of Trafalgar featured the mighty British Royal Navy as they were pitted against two other worthy opponents—the Spanish and French naval forces—who had joined forces to try and topple the powerful force that had dominated the waters surrounding Europe and much of the world during this time.

Crepin’s painting portrays, with great accuracy, the close-quarters combat that so often occurred in naval battles.

4. Snow Storm – Steam-Boat off a Harbour’s Mouth   – J.M.W Turner

Snow Storm – Steam- Boat off a Harbours Mouth

As noted above, J.M.W. Turner was among the most famous artists who focused on the life and voyages of sailors and their ships.

Many times, these voyages were undertaken during powerful, unpredictable storms that all-too-often led to the ships capsizing and the entire crews being lost.

Turner’s 1842 work titled Snow Storm – Steam-Boat off a Harbour’s Mouth is one such painting that depicts the sea’s ability to make any vessel, large or small, feel the power of its might from time to time.

Also Read: Famous Lighthouse Paintings

The painting features the steam boat ship caught in a frigid snow storm , the wind sweeping and whipping in every direction as the ship struggles to stay on course and avoid succumbing to the massive waves.

According to many art historians, Turner went to great lengths to accompany various ships’ crews on their journeys so that he could paint his works as accurately as possible.

5. Becalmed off Halfway Rock   – Fitz Hugh Lane

Becalmed off Halfway Rock

So many of the most famous ship paintings ever created feature vessels that are either engaged in raging battles, or caught in powerful gales on the open ocean. However, there are a few notable works that depict the calm, serene nature of the ocean or coastal areas.

Fitz Hugh Lane’s Becalmed off Halfway Rock is one such work that depicts a scene of beauty that few people outside the world of ships and sailing ever get to experience.

This 1860 work depicts ships anchored down next to Halfway Rock, a famous sea marker that is situated approximately halfway between Boston and Cape Ann.

This marker was a popular stop for trading vessels and supply ships as they could join up with other ships and carry out various types of maritime business at a specific location.

Lane’s work features a number of ships anchored down with small row boats working their way from one to another, likely swapping various cargo and other items.

6. Dutch Men-O’-War and Other Shipping in a Calm – Willem van de Velde II

Dutch Men-O'-War and Other Shipping in a Calm - Willem van de Velde II

Willem van de Velde II was a painter who specialized in maritime art during his career in the late 17th century.

This was a time when sailing ships were the height of mankind’s technological achievements and the naval fleets of various nations were the most vital part of any military force.

Velde’s work titled Dutch Men-O’-War and Other Shipping in a Calm was created in 1665 and features the Dutch navy’s vast fleet of ships that include the deadly and feared Men-O’-War vessels.

These ships were known as floating fortresses who possessed the ability to mercilessly pummel opposing ships or coastal forts and cities with impressive precision.

7. The Home Fleet Saluting the State Barge – Jan van de Cappelle

The Home Fleet Saluting the State Barge - Jan van de Cappelle

The mid-1600’s was a time in which maritime travel was responsible for reshaping the people and nations of the world as many pilgrims and travelers ventured to the New World across the Atlantic Ocean.

Jan van de Cappelle captured one instance of significance from this time period in his 1650 work titled The Home Fleet Saluting the State Barge.

The painting depicts a number of different ships gathered together in a port to salute a prominent vessel as it embarked on its voyage.

Cappelle’s work is one of the most well-known ship paintings in history as he masterfully depicts the water’s ability to mirror the happenings above its surface with stunning detail.

8. Argenteuil (Red Boats) – Claude Monet

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

Claude Monet is celebrated as one of the most famous impressionist painters , but most of his work featured scenes from dry land instead of ships and maritime travel. However, his 1875 painting titled Argenteuil (Red Boats) is among one of the most recognized ship paintings ever created.

This work features Monet’s trademarked Impressionist painting style and depicts a calm scene that features contrasting colors that truly highlight the boats in the center of the canvas.

The smooth water appears almost like glass in its ability to reflect the boats and their towering masts.

Monet’s brushstrokes vary greatly when one focuses on the sky above the water and the boats, which are crafted with short, choppy strokes that are able to convey great detail.

9. Nelson’s Inshore Blockading Squadron at Cadiz – Thomas Buttersworth

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

The British Royal Navy was at the peak of its seafaring prowess across much of Europe and the rest of the world during the latter half of the 18th century.

The nation’s powerful fleet engaged in many battles along the coast of Portugal during this time as the two countries were locked in a bout to control the waters around coastal Europe and other parts of the Atlantic.

Thomas Buttersworth painted a work in 1797 that is a testament to a great naval battle for the British forces off the coast of Lisbon. Following the famous Battle of St. Vincent, rear-admiral Nelson and 10 bargemen were engaging in a raid on Spanish gun-boats under the cover of darkness.

The Spanish commander realized his boats were under attack and launched an effort to defend them with 26 of his own men. Despite the British being heavily outnumbered, they managed to kill 18 Spanish sailors and capture the remaining few after a bloody sword fight ensued.

Buttersworth’s painting is a testament to that incident that was a historical victory for the British Navy.

10. Breezing Up (A Fair Wind)   – Winslow Homer

Breezing Up A Fair Wind

One of the most iconic American paintings of all time was done by Winslow Homer, who was another artist that was well-known for his maritime paintings.

His 1876 painting titled Breezing Up (A Fair Wind) features a highly-detailed scene of a small sailboat cruising along on the waves as the sun is at the backs of the men and boys aboard the boat.

In the painting, the boat’s sail is clearly filled with what many would consider to be a ‘fair wind’ as it leans heavily toward the water while the boat’s rudder is steered toward their destination.

The painting is meant to depict a common scene from the late 19th century America as sailing was one of the most popular means of travel around coastal New England at this time.

The work is known for Homer’s masterful use of light and dark, along with the colors and how the sunlight brings out the depth in the varying hues.

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Famous Ship Paintings – Best Nautical Paintings of Ships at Sea

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Paintings of ships at sea are among the iconic artworks in the world. For centuries, numerous civilizations ruled the world’s waters, sending commercial vessels and ships of war out into the blue horizon; as a result, marine art emerged to depict these adventures and battles. Today, we will celebrate these famous ship paintings and boat paintings by giving them a deeper look. 

Table of Contents

Our Favorite Famous Ship Paintings

Nautical paintings commemorate the incredible vessels that once sailed the seas, as well as more subdued sailboat paintings. Over time, these vessels became the lifeline of the economies of nations such as the United Kingdom and Portugal, with their sailors carrying and delivering valuable goods of various types. For over a thousand years, ships of diverse kinds and sizes have sailed the oceans.

Part of what inspires the adoration of so many art lovers and aficionados, especially in coastal areas, is the contrast between brilliant man-made ships and the unpredictability and dangers of the ocean and Mother Nature herself.

Many painters have experimented with creating nautical paintings and their legendary sea excursions throughout history, with others specializing entirely in the theme of nautical travel. Here are our favorite paintings of ships at sea.

The Storm on the Sea of Galilee (1633) by Rembrandt

(1606 – 1669)
1633
Oil on canvas
160 x 128
Stolen

This well-known marine artwork was looted in 1990 from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The boat painting’s whereabouts are still unknown, and it might never be found again. However, there is some debate around the work. It has been the focus of various theft-related investigations ever since it vanished. During the 1630s, just as Rembrandt arrived in Amsterdam to start his professional career, he created what many believe to be his most dramatic works.

This artwork is an example of this period. Rembrandt picked a Bible narrative to demonstrate the seriousness of his creative ambitions.

Rembrandt moved to Amsterdam with the intention of being recognized for his historical artworks and portraits. Using a New Testament narrative, he illustrated how to blend a historical picture with a seascape. This New Testament incident would have been recognizable to Rembrandt’s contemporaries and, more than likely, admired by them. The suspense produced in the picture, on the other hand, would present the narrative with a totally new and surprising interpretation. This example of innovation and risk-taking by Rembrandt, then 27 years old, set him apart from his colleagues and became the foundation of his creative growth.

Paintings of Ships at Sea

The Home Fleet Saluting the State Barge (1650) by Jan van de Cappelle

Jan van de Cappelle (1624 – 1679)
1650
Oil on panel
64 x 92.5
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, Netherlands

As numerous pilgrims and travelers journeyed to the New World across the Atlantic Ocean in the mid-1600s, seafaring transportation was responsible for shaping the world’s individuals and nations. In his 1650 marine artwork, Jan van de Cappelle caught one significant event from this time period. The picture portrays a variety of ships gathered in a port to honor a major vessel as it set off on its trip.

Cappelle’s artwork is considered among the most famous ship paintings because he captures the water’s capacity to reflect events above its surface in exquisite clarity.

Jan van de Cappelle was a painter of winter landscapes and paintings of ships at sea from the Dutch Golden Age , as well as an entrepreneur and art collector. He is widely regarded as the greatest marine artist of 17th-century Holland.

Boat Painting

Nelson’s Inshore Blockading Squadron at Cadiz (1797) by Thomas Buttersworth

Thomas Buttersworth (1768 – 1842)
1797
Oil painting
63.5 x 99
National Maritime Museum, London

During the second part of the 18th century, the British Royal Navy was at the pinnacle of its nautical power throughout most of Europe and the rest of the world. During this period, the nation’s formidable navy fought in several conflicts off the coast of Portugal as the two countries competed for supremacy of the waterways around coastal Europe and other regions of the Atlantic. In 1797, Thomas Buttersworth produced this picture commemorating a decisive naval fight for British forces off the coastline of Portugal.

Following the historic Battle of St. Vincent, Nelson and ten bargemen were conducting a night attack against Spanish gunboats.

Sailboat Painting

Battle of Trafalgar (1805) by Louis Philippe Crepin

Louis Phillipe Crepin (1772 – 1851)
1805
Oil on canvas
90.93 x 80.78
National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London

A number of the most famous ship paintings depict bloody sea conflicts between formidable naval forces. This is true of Louis Phillipe Crepin’s 1805 work. This picture shows one of the most well-known naval battles, which occurred in the year the artwork was made. The fight faced the formidable British Royal Navy against two other worthy adversaries—the French and Spanish naval forces—who had collaborated to try to overthrow the overwhelming force that had controlled the waterways surrounding Europe and most of the world at the time.

Crepin’s picture depicts the close-quarters warfare that was common in naval conflicts with exceptional precision.

Famous Boat Painting

A First Rate Man-of-War Driven Onto a Reef of Rocks, Floundering in a Gale (1826) by George Philip Reinagle

George Philip Reinagle (1802 – 1835)
1826
Oil on canvas
102 x 127.2
Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter

The early 1800s were most likely the peak of the legendary ship painting era. George Philip Reinagle was a well-known marine artist noted for his ability to portray the character of the sea’s often violent nature that has wrecked so many big, strong ships throughout history.

His 1826 masterpiece is adequately titled since it depicts a ship caught in the grasp of the surging sea.

One of the most exciting features of maritime travel was the risk that mariners may perish if caught in a raging storm, sometimes known as a gale. This work is famous for Reinagle’s ability to capture the massive, crushing power of the waves, as well as the sea spray whipped up by the fierce winds. This piece serves as a sobering reminder that not all marine exploration and adventure are safe.

Marine Art

The Fighting Temeraire (1839) by J. M. W. Turner

J. M. W. Turner (1775 – 1851)
1839
Oil paint
90.7 x 121.6
National Gallery, London

The early industrial revolution is suggested by the marine artwork’s surroundings. Even though the sky is illuminated, a tugboat is rushing to assist. The tugboat stands for the new era of steam, coal, and fire. Turner’s own emotions and imagination are revealed in the image, which is intriguing and romantic. Although it is difficult to determine the painting’s message, it is unquestionably an important symbol of its time.

Turner’s boat painting features opposing hues that give it a magical or ethereal appearance. In contrast to the gloomy sky, the tugboat pops out.

A little portion of the painting’s bottom is taken up by the water, striking a balance between the sky and water. The Fighting Temeraire , while not well-liked in its day, has grown in popularity over time. A significant character in British art history, John Ruskin, spoke favorably of the piece. Although the artwork was eventually taken off the auction board, many reviewers, including Turner himself, praised it as a masterpiece. Nevertheless, Turner kept promoting his work despite the numerous unfavorable reviews.

Famous Paintings of Ships at Sea

Becalmed off Halfway Rock (1860) by Fitz Hugh Lane

Fitz Hugh Lane (1804 – 1865)
1860
Oil on canvas
70.4 x 120.5
National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC

Several of the most famous ship paintings ever made depict warships engaged in furious conflicts or stuck in tremendous gales on the wide sea. There are, though, a few significant nautical paintings that reflect the placid, quiet character of the ocean or coastal regions. This piece portrays ships tied around Halfway Rock, a prominent maritime landmark located roughly halfway between Cape Ann and Boston.

This place was a popular stopping point for commercial vessels and supply ships since it allowed them to connect with other ships and conduct many forms of maritime commerce at a precise spot.

Famous Marine Art

Red Boats, Argenteuil (1875) by Claude Monet

Claude Monet (1840 – 1926)
1875
Oil painting
61.8 x 82.5
Musée d’Orsay, Paris, France

Monet depicted the town and outlying areas of Argenteuil during the 1870s, creating images of harmony and beauty that were sometimes at odds with the realities of the time. Despite his belief in en Plein air painting , Monet painstakingly selected the components he wanted to incorporate and often completed his works in the studio.

His works include no hints of the contamination of the river at Argenteuil or the chaos of a community pushing all into its industry.

Monet created the composition in this painting by using boats, particularly the verticals of the masts. Again, he used contrasting colors in the form of oranges, blues, greens, and reds. The painting is vibrant with color, and the blues and purples depict the depth of the sea.

Famous Nautical Paintings

Breezing Up (A Fair Wind) (1876) by Winslow Homer

Winslow Homer (1836 – 1910)
1876
Oil on canvas
61.5 x 97
National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC

After visiting Massachusetts, where he first painted in watercolor, Homer started this painting in New York in 1873. He utilized the sketches he made there to create an oil painting that he worked on for three years. Infrared reflectography has shown the several composition modifications he made during this period, including the erasure of a fourth youngster near the mast and a second ship in the distance.

The artwork’s theme is upbeat; despite the turbulent seas, the boaters appear to be at ease. The anchor that substituted the person in the bow was said to represent hope.

The youngster at the helm looks to the horizon, an expression of hope for his and the nascent United States’ future. The final piece demonstrates that Homer was influenced by the substantial impact of Japanese art on Western artists in the 19th century, notably in the compositional balance between the dynamic and sparse parts. In 1866, Homer visited France, and the influence of French artists Claude Monet and Gustave Courbet’s nautical paintings is also visible.

Nautical Paintings

Fishing Boats on the Beach at Saintes-Maries (1888) by Vincent van Gogh

Vincent van Gogh (1853 – 1890)
1888
Oil on canvas
39.5 x 53.3
Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam

This sailboat painting is a reworking of the artist’s drawing and is one of his most impressive attempts at establishing balance and harmony. The fishing boats stand in sharp contrast to his condition, serving as a source of optimism for the painter as he neared the end of his life. Vincent van Gogh applied his colors with a palette knife, and the contrasting blue and white portions of the water are filled with greens and blues to form the waves. He also produced the boats with a reed pen and added the white and blue colors with big scribbles.

As a result, the picture has a flowing movement and a blend of Impressionist and Realism elements.

Famous Sailboat Painting

Warship and sailboat paintings have always been popular subjects. This is likely due to the fact that ships have played such an important role in the development of civilization. Thanks to artists who are fascinated with these incredible vessels, we have many famous ship paintings to admire nowadays.

Take a look at our ship paintings webstory here!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are paintings of ships at sea such a popular topic.

Ships have played an essential role in the past for humans, helping us explore new lands and peoples. Perhaps it is this sense of adventure and free spirit that artists personally resonate with. Or perhaps creating nautical paintings provides them with the chance to portray both nature and man-man creations.

What Do Famous Ship Paintings Portray?

Some artists depict intense battle scenes from human history. Others prefer to create sailboat paintings that have a more subdued and peaceful atmosphere. Other times, the artwork can have a biblical or mythological tale attached to it. Paintings of ships at sea are not only numerous but diverse in their themes and styles.

isabella meyer

Isabella studied at the University of Cape Town in South Africa and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English Literature & Language and Psychology. Throughout her undergraduate years, she took Art History as an additional subject and absolutely loved it. Building on from her art history knowledge that began in high school, art has always been a particular area of fascination for her. From learning about artworks previously unknown to her, or sharpening her existing understanding of specific works, the ability to continue learning within this interesting sphere excites her greatly.

Her focal points of interest in art history encompass profiling specific artists and art movements, as it is these areas where she is able to really dig deep into the rich narrative of the art world. Additionally, she particularly enjoys exploring the different artistic styles of the 20 th century, as well as the important impact that female artists have had on the development of art history.

Learn more about Isabella Meyer and the Art in Context Team .

Cite this Article

Isabella, Meyer, “Famous Ship Paintings – Best Nautical Paintings of Ships at Sea.” Art in Context. November 23, 2022. URL: https://artincontext.org/famous-ship-paintings/

Meyer, I. (2022, 23 November). Famous Ship Paintings – Best Nautical Paintings of Ships at Sea. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/famous-ship-paintings/

Meyer, Isabella. “Famous Ship Paintings – Best Nautical Paintings of Ships at Sea.” Art in Context , November 23, 2022. https://artincontext.org/famous-ship-paintings/ .

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The Most Famous Artists and Artworks

Discover the most famous artists, paintings, sculptors…in all of history! 

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MOST FAMOUS ARTISTS AND ARTWORKS

Discover the most famous artists, paintings, sculptors!

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Claude Monet’s six most splendid paintings of sailboats

by Barista Uno | Nov 15, 2021 | Maritime Art, Culture and History

Claude Monet’s six most splendid paintings of sailboats

Sailboats held as much as fascination for French Impressionist master Claude Monet as water lilies and haystacks . He made several paintings of them. The following, in my opinion, are his most splendid works on the subject. They spotlight not only the beauty and elegance of sailboats. More importantly, they show Monet’s inimitable handling of colour, light and atmosphere.

“For me, a landscape does not exist in its own right, since its appearance changes at every moment; but the surrounding atmosphere brings it to life – the air and the light, which vary continuously. For me, it is only the surrounding atmosphere which gives subjects their true value.”

— claude monet, 1891 (as quoted by tate uk ).

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

Sailboat in Petit-Gennevilliers, 1874 Claude Monet (1840–1926) Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

A sky exploding with wonderful colours and reflections on the serene waters of the Seine combine to transform an ordinary sailboat into something majestic.

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

Sailboats, regatta at Argenteuil, 1874 Claude Monet (1840–1926) Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Monet used the same pale palette for the sky, the sailboats and the river, adding tints of red for the houses to break the uniformity. Sky and water are dappled, and the boats are appear bunched together as they move gracefully along the river. All this gives the painting a peculiar kind of vitality and charm.

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

Le Havre, Fishing Boats Leaving the Port, 1874 Claude Monet (1840–1926) Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

It’s a wet morning, but a crowd has gathered on the waterfront to watch the fishing boats sail out of the harbour to the open sea. The small figures in the foreground make the boats and their proud sails seem like multistoried buildings. This is captivating art with a narrative element.

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

Fishing Boats at Sea, 1868 Claude Monet (1840–1926) Courtesy of Wikiart: Visual Art Encyclopedia

Monet turned an ordinary day in the life of fishermen into a theatrical scene. The boat in the foreground is like an actor making his stage entrance as the curtain of day is raised. The two boats are rendered in dark brown to provide a contrast to the streaks of white light in the sky.

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

The Cliffs at Étretat, 1886 Claude Monet (1840–1926) Courtesy of Wikiart: Visual Art Encyclopedia

This painting — one of many done by Monet of the Étretat cliffs — is bursting  with energy. Small patches of green, yellow and brownish orange are skillfully blended to create the impression of a dynamic but not choppy sea. The brightly coloured sky and the flotilla of small fishing boats accentuate the massive, towering cliffs.

paintings of sailboats on the ocean

Seascape, Storm, 1866 Claude Monet (1840–1926) Courtesy of The Clark, Massachusetts, USA

Seascape, Storm is an early work by Monet that is markedly different in style and technique from his later Impressionist paintings. In lieu of small, swift brushtrokes, the colours are applied solidly with some areas worked with a palette knife. The fishing boat is set against an ominous grey sky, and the sea is mostly a dark green. Just below the horizon line is a long strip of bright green, Monet suggesting perhaps that the storm will blow over, that there is hope.

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Art vs. reality: claude monet’s paintings of étretat.

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  1. Sailboat Paintings for Sale - Fine Art America

    Choose your favorite sailboat paintings from 773 incredible artists. Featuring all kinds of sailboats, from sloops to schooners and yachts to yawls, this collection of paintings has something for everyone. These pieces of art invoke deep emotion with pictures of stormy weather, sleepy harbors and majestic, three-masted ships. With so many different styles and motifs to choose from, sailing ...

  2. 10 Most Famous Ship Paintings - Artst

    His 1876 painting titled Breezing Up (A Fair Wind) features a highly-detailed scene of a small sailboat cruising along on the waves as the sun is at the backs of the men and boys aboard the boat. In the painting, the boat’s sail is clearly filled with what many would consider to be a ‘fair wind’ as it leans heavily toward the water while ...

  3. Famous Ship Paintings – Best Nautical Paintings of Ships at Sea

    Nov 23, 2022 · Fishing Boats on the Beach at Saintes-Maries (1888) by Vincent van Gogh; Vincent van Gogh, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons . Warship and sailboat paintings have always been popular subjects. This is likely due to the fact that ships have played such an important role in the development of civilization.

  4. Paintings of Sailboats - Sail Magazine

    Dec 15, 2016 · Paintings of Sailboats. Author: Ali Wisch. Updated: Aug 2, 2017. Original: ... (CCA) is a collection of 1,400 ocean sailors with extensive offshore seamanship ...

  5. Claude Monet’s six most splendid paintings of sailboats

    Nov 15, 2021 · Sailboats, regatta at Argenteuil, 1874 Claude Monet (1840–1926) Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons. Monet used the same pale palette for the sky, the sailboats and the river, adding tints of red for the houses to break the uniformity. Sky and water are dappled, and the boats are appear bunched together as they move gracefully along the river.

  6. Sailboat Paintings - Etsy

    Sailboat Painting Blue Ocean Oil Painting on Canvas Original Ship Art Seascape White Blue Painting Nautical Painting Sailing Boat Wall Art (212) Sale Price $496.50 $ 496.50