Ancient naval warfare involved the use of ships and boats in battles on water, primarily for control of trade routes and territorial waters. Civilizations like the Greeks, Romans, and Phoenicians developed advanced ships, such as the trireme, which were designed for speed and maneuverability. Tactics included ramming enemy vessels and boarding them for hand-to-hand combat. Naval battles often took place near coastlines or in strategic waterways. The Battle of Salamis in 480 BCE is a notable example, where the Greek fleet defeated the larger Persian navy. These conflicts shaped the political landscape of the ancient world and influenced maritime strategies for centuries.