This is your only real solution. It makes sense to build a live action set for some portions of the boat, namely the ship's hold and the exterior deck. The ships hold is the site of many elaborate stunts that require special effects. If you build an actual set it'll be much easier to rig (prepare) for effects shots. An exterior deck set provides control over weather, and lighting and provides easy access for greenscreen use (a special effects tool used often in movie making). For wide shot exteriors of the "Dragon's Wing", turn to the computer. FX designers can build the boat as large and as elaborate as desired, and once in the computer, the image can be used when and wherever you need it.
You have a great construction team to build the set portions, but how do you create your digital ship?
First, you need to design the ship in an illustrated form, Then everyone can agree on the design and you can get input from the computer animators to make sure they can accomplish the look you want.
Next, you build a 3 dimensional skeleton of the ship to establish it's proportions and shape, and to give your animators something to build on. This is called a wire-frame in the computer world.
After you have the basic structure, you need to establish the textures you are going to use for the different parts of the boat.
(wood for the bow, cloth for the sails etc.)
The next step is to apply the textures to your ship.
Then you put your Dragon's Wing in the shot .
Add interactive lighting, mist and all the bells and whistles for the final shot that you drop into the movie.
