This study aims to identify the behavior of wood in the marine environment as well as its use in interior and exterior design of small cruise passenger ships. The cruise industry is among the most exciting and fast-growing categories in the leisure marketplace, especially ın Mediterranean region, so that is a need for constant improvement of services and passenger comfort. Although the wood as a building material has the most significant influence on interior design and furniture production, the material choice and building methods are first defined in the design-phase. This study is founded on actual experience during the refurbishment of the passenger ship Anna Maru during the spring of 2016 in Psaros shipyard in Perama, Greece. The beginning chapter is formed by bringing out the vessel characteristic, design essentials, design process and design methods, which facilitated the successful completion of full treatment. In add-on, also are mentioned problems of noise and vibrations, which requires monitoring of international standards, proper usage of materials and reduction of costs. The final chapter discusses the examples of practical usage and execution of traditional wood products such as tropical hardwood, combined with the contemporary composite materials, as well as finishing techniques.