How does a ship engine work?

The sailing ship was generally replaced by the steamship during the 19th century. The original reciprocating engine steam ships were in their turn replaced by ships with steam turbine and diesel engines. Today's cargo vessels are faster and more reliable than sailing ships, as they do not rely on sails or the vagaries of the wind. However, sailing ships are still in use in many parts of the world, both for pleasure and work. And, as fuel prices increase, the economics of wind power have increased interest in commercial sailing vessels again.