First the vessel is described in its overall condition followed by an iconographic interpretation.

The vessel was described to have been carried away up on the beach and left there high and dry by the receding tide.

The vessel was described as "a very handsome, well-designed ship.

In at least one account the vessel is described as the "Cantabrian Spanish ship of 18 guns".

The vessel has often been described as the "Ship of Miracles" as it was designed to carry only 12 passengers.

This vessel was described as an "elegant passenger boat".

The vessels were described by the auction house as the largest and finest collection of ancient Roman silver ever uncovered.

A vessel was, and still is described as having a 'fair' shape.

This vessel is described as being able to carry 30 armed men at a time.

For all three letters below, the vessel is described as being armed with twelve 3-pounders.