Currently, the Merchant Navy is not as representative economically as it once was. There were times when, in fact, it played a very important role in the national economy. From the fifteenth century onwards, with the Portuguese Discoveries, until almost the end of the twentieth century, Portugal´s territory was spread over several continents and the Merchant Navy’s help in linking the different parts of the territory was undoubtedly crucial, especially during the Colonial War.
Intercontinental travel by sea was usually rather time consuming. In order to provide the most comfortable stay aboard liners, especially for the wealthiest travelers, the ships were equipped luxuriously as far as furniture, decoration or even tableware were concerned. Thus, they aimed to provide a quality service to make the passengers feel as if they were at home.