The British Merchant fleet, commonly known as the Merchant Navy. Is the collective term for all British vessels which were/are involved in commercial trade. It covers, Cruise ships tankers, cargo ships of all descriptions, ferries, fishing Boats. tugs etc. In fact any vessel used in commercial service
The term Merchant Navy has only been in use since 1924 when the then monarch bestowed the term in recognition of the sacrifice made by the Merchant service in WW1. Previously it was known as the Merchant, or Mercantile Marine.
The very nature of Merchant seafaring makes it difficult to create a regimented structure of records. So, yes, they can be confusing to the first time researcher.
The records are not confined to wartime but cover all dates. Records go back as far as 1272 but of course the ravishes of time mean that many have been lost or destroyed.
In answer to your last question. Yes. The ship would be considered to be part of the merchant service. In fact it was common in Victorian times for vessels to be owned by a syndicate.
If you could explain what kind of records you are looking for? We may be able to direct you.
