A novel method of constructing a ship''s hull whereby successive spaced decks having individual deck edge contours defining an overall hull configuration are placed in successive order above girder frames which are attached to a keel plate before an outer hull skin is attached to the deck outer edges to complete the hull. Stanchions are utilized which extend through suitable holes in a plurality of such decks to maintain alignment of center line, offsets, and overlays, and columns are used between the decks for support along with fore and aft I-beams.