A comparative analysis of the main types of modern ship power systems has been made. Presented are the basic advantages of the propulsion electric units – increase of manoeuvrability, transhipment ability, efficiency, reliability and noise reduction. Based on the stated above, are predicted the further development of ship electromotive systems in the following main areas: usage of high voltage; controlled-speed drives for synchronous and asynchronous motors, and valve-inductor motors with permanent magnets, introduction of superconducting electrical machines; increase of the generators capacity and load; improvement of the structure of electric propulsion systems and electrical equipment. As the most promising, power cryogenic plants and machines with high-temperature superconductors are highlighted. Complication of ship electromotive systems requires a wide application of computer systems for the automated management of the electric propulsion systems, technical diagnosis, protection and control. When designing and building the vessels with electric propulsion an integrated approach is required to ensure the interconnection of the main functional elements taking into account the tasks faced by the ship.