Genesis says Noah’s Ark had three decks, or levels.
The construction instructions in Genesis 6:16 describe the Ark as having an opening, a door in its side, and lower, second, and third decks. English translations vary slightly in how they phrase these levels, but the standard interpretation is a three-level vessel.
The text gives no detailed internal plan showing where Noah’s family, food, and animals were placed. Later paintings, models, and popular illustrations therefore add layouts that are imaginative rather than directly specified by Genesis. The biblical account emphasizes the Ark’s broad structure and its role in preserving life.
The three decks are part of the same specification that gives the Ark a length of 300 cubits, a width of 50 cubits, and a height of 30 cubits. These details describe a large, boxlike floating vessel rather than a conventional sailing ship with masts and sails.