Shipwright

Several of the port towns along the shores of Britannia boast of craftsmen renowned for their dedication to the construction of safe, dependable sea vessels: The Shipwrights. Whether one needs a small skiff to get upriver, or a mighty sailing vessel for open sea travel, the local shipwrights will be more than happy to discuss terms. Since shipbuilders are usually busy building ships, their shoppe hours are often short and sporadic. When the shipwright is in, one can buy skiffs alone, which are not very expensive, or frigates, which are very expensive and generally come with skiffs on board.

It is wise to pay attention to information about local sea and wind conditions before setting out in a new craft. A shipwright will also sell the ship owner a sextant.

Age of Darkness
In the early days of Sosaria, during the events of Ultima I, ships could be procured for a little under six-hundred pence and were available throughout the coastal "Transport shoppes" which dotted Sosaria's landscape.

At the time of the incursions of Exodus in Ultima III, a big decline came into the sell of these vessels, as they became scarce to come by amongst honest vendors. Because the pirates of the era having secured the vast majority of the water ways, a frigate could most commonly be procured by fighting against a raiding crew bold enough to attack one's party on shore and then claiming their ship after dispatching them. In this age and for several years to follow, this was the only way to come in possession of a frigate.

Age of Enlightenment
It was not until Ultima V, during the regime of Blackthorn actual shipwrights started to appear. After that, the rules for these shops stayed the same in every installment.

Age of Armageddon
However, in Ultima VII, things started to change. Now they only sell ships whose featuring a single mast and has no cannons for defense. The other thing that came in fashion is that you will need a ship deed first, before boarding one. Without this, the ship is not usable.

Notable Examples

 * Island Shipwrights is a shipwright in Jhelom which, during Ultima V, was run by Bantral. Later in Ultima VI, the store was run by Peer.
 * The Crow's Nest is a shipwright in Minoc which, during Ultima V, was run by Captain Blyth. Later in Ultima VI, The Crow's Nest was run by Trebor.
 * The Oaken Oar is a shipwright in East Britanny which, during Ultima V, was run by Master Hawkins. Later in Ultima VI, the store was run by the mute Arty.