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1)One who journeyed through a sea  and arrives at  his destination safely recites Birchas HaGomel. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 219:1)

This only applies to a sea or ocean (i.e. where the large waves and other elements can be dangerous) and not to rivers and other calm bodies of water. (See Biur Halacha Siman 219 Dibur Hamaschil Yordei)

The Bracha is only recited after arriving on dry land, even if something dangerous transpired while the ship is still en route from which they were saved. (Kaf HaChaim Siman 219:4 and Mishna Berura 219:1)

2) One who travels through an underwater tunnel (such as the tunnel connecting England and France) is not considered to have journeyed through the sea and does not recite Birchas HaGomel upon leaving the tunnel. (Shu"t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 9 Siman 72 and Shu"t L'Horos Nosson Vol. 7 Siman 10. See also Shu"t Minchas Yitzchak Vol. 4 Siman 11)

Similarly, one who takes a ferry ride or otherwise is on a ship for a short period of time and not for an extended journey, does not recite Birchas HaGomel upon getting off the ship, unless the ship was in actual danger at some point in the ride.

Today's days when ship travel is basically nonexistent, A Rav should be consulted with the specific details of any ship ride to determine if Birchas HaGomel is halachically required.

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