Abstract: After a deck is constructed on a ship, and before the next deck above it is constructed, prefabricated cabin modules are lifted by a crane from a pier, carried over the ship's hull, and deposited directly by the crane substantially at their final locations in a row spaced from the hull. Before the cabins are completed by the erection of wall elements that extend from the prefabricated cabin modules toward the hull, workers can attend to the construction of the overlying deck, and easily carry out the welding and outfitting operations needed to secure the overlying deck to the hull. Furnishings and fixtures for each cabin are concentrated and fixed within the prefabricated cabin modules, so that at least approximately 80% of the cabin construction labor is carried out ashore in the prefabrication process.