Today, Fu ships are best known through the models made of them. Historically, they played a vital role in China's maritime exploration. Designed for long voyages, and incorporating their unique watertight-bulkhead technology, these ships were key to the success of the 15th-century navigator Zheng He. His legendary voyages took him across the Pacific and Indian Oceans to the Persian Gulf and the coast of East Africa. Then, as well as at other times in history, Fu ships played an essential role not only in China's maritime trade, but also in its cultural exchange.