From shipwreck to seaworthy: A digital reconstruction of the Ma'agan Mikhael B ship

Abstract

A digital 3D model of the Ma'agan Mikhael B ship was developed by resourcing excavation data, iconographic representations, and relevant documentation. A computer-aided design system was used to digitally replicate the ship, also yielding 3D prints used to refine the results. The digital model also served to test amphora cargo loading scenarios, considering maritime dictates of ship stability, accessibility, and commerce. A standard maritime-engineering analysis of stability and strength, and computational fluid dynamics analyses were performed on the digital model to evaluate hull resistance and the power of the ship's lateen sail. The simulations demonstrated that the fully loaded merchantman was seaworthy and made satisfactory speed over ground.