[GUIDE] Dragon Quest II HD-2D Remake Guide – How to Unlock and Get the Ship

The ship plays a vital role in Dragon Quest II HD-2D Remake, serving as your key to exploring the wider world beyond the starting regions. It is not a missable item, as every player will unlock it naturally while progressing through the main storyline. Once obtained, the ship allows you to freely travel across the world map, uncover new continents, and reach previously inaccessible areas. You’ll gain access to it after completing an important story event in Rippleport, marking the beginning of a much broader adventure.

How to Unlock the Ship

Your path to obtaining the ship begins after recruiting the Princess of Moonbrooke. Once she joins your party, make your way to the Dragon’s Horns, where you will acquire an essential item known as the Windbraker. This relic grants your party the ability to cross powerful winds and reach distant islands, eventually leading you to the coastal town of Rippleport.

Upon arriving in Rippleport, speak to the Mayor to begin a key segment of the main quest. You will soon discover that the town has been thrown into chaos after an outsider deceived its villagers. The Mayor will ask for your help to locate the missing people and bring them back safely to the port. This mission eventually leads to a confrontation with a monster who is holding the Mayor’s daughter captive.

After defeating the monster and rescuing the daughter, return to Rippleport to find the town’s port operations restored. In gratitude for your heroism, the Mayor will reward you with a ship. With this, you finally gain the freedom to traverse the seas and explore the vast world beyond your starting territories. However, before you embark, it’s advisable to ensure your party is well-prepared. Sea travel in Dragon Quest II HD-2D Remake can be perilous, as you may encounter strong enemies during your voyages.

When You Can Unlock It

The ship becomes available shortly after you have gathered all three party members, including the Princess of Moonbrooke. This occurs during the early to mid-stages of the main storyline, following the completion of the Rippleport questline. From this point onward, the game world expands dramatically, allowing for much greater exploration and progression opportunities.

What You Can Do With the Ship

Once you have the ship, the game truly opens up. You can explore distant islands and continents, discovering hidden settlements, secret caves, and powerful dungeons scattered across the ocean. Many of these locations contain rare treasures and equipment that can significantly strengthen your party. The ship also enables you to reach previously inaccessible towns and story-critical regions, pushing the narrative forward while rewarding your curiosity.

Owning the ship transforms Dragon Quest II HD-2D Remake from a journey bound by land into a true world-spanning adventure. It’s not just a means of travel — it’s your gateway to uncovering the many mysteries and wonders scattered across the high seas.