Which World War II carriers stand out as favourites?
Short answerUSS Enterprise, HMS Ark Royal, HMS Illustrious, and HMS Indefatigable stand out chiefly for their histories and service stories.
NotesFavourite ships need not form a technical ranking of the best class. USS Enterprise, HMS Ark Royal, HMS Illustrious, and HMS Indefatigable make up a shifting top group, depending on which service story is most compelling at the time. Unicorn receives an honorary place because her forward aviation-support role does not fit neatly into the carrier category, and some escort carriers also have compelling histories. A favourite-ship list can reward operational experience and narrative distinctiveness without pretending to rank designs.