For the foreseeable future, it is likely that much of the information you will need will be found only in books, or on microfilm or microfiche in the various libraries, archives and record offices. Do not expect to be able to restrict your research just to data that is available to you on-line. The ISTG Compass can guide you in your search for your ancestors. There are some sites on the internet that have full and partial passenger lists of the immigrant ships. They usually deal only with the webmaster of that site's personal family however.
Some genealogists have full lists on their sites as well.
The ISTG Compass can help you locate other sites with this information. Email Sheila Tate , our Production Coordinator. There is no on-line access to this immense library, but there are branches of this library in many towns and cities throughout the world. You would be well advised to seek out your nearest branch of this library and pay it an early visit. Each center is staffed by volunteers who are most helpful.