The HMS Beagle was built in 1817 as an eight-gun fighting ship. Modified in 1831, she served as Charles Darwin's floating laboratory on his historic voyage to the Galapagos Islands. In June 1831, the HMS Beagle set sail from England under the command of Commander Robert Fitz Roy on a 4 year surveying mission (Fitz Roy was promoted to Captain during the cruise). Fitz Roy had decided to take along some one who would "profit from the opportunity of visiting different countries yet little known." The person who took up this unpaid position was 22 year-old Charles Darwin.
After three years of surveying the South American coast, the HMS Beagle reached San Cristobal (Chatham) in September 1835. The Beagle spent 5 weeks in the Galapagos carefully charting the archipelago. Fitz Roy's chart was remarkably accurate and remainded in use until the USS. Bowditch recharted the area in 1942.
In the meantime, Darwin made careful observations about both the geology and biology of the islands. Darwin was particularly struck by the"differences between the inhabitants of the different islands".
You'll be delighted with Mamoli's high quality HMS Beagle kit. Under-planking is flexible limewood, covered by a second layer of rich walnut. Wooden ship's boats, helm, blocks, deadeyes, and gun carriages are ready to use. Fittings, including burnished metal cannon barrels and gleaming brass ornaments, are the finest available. Silk-screened flags, cotton rigging, display cradle and nameplate complete the kit. Detailed plans and illustrated instructions.
Intermediate Skill Level.
Length 26" / Height 17" / Scale 1:64
Model Ship building Links: Model Ship World Forum
Ships of Scale Model Forum.
Model Ship Builder Forum
Crown Timberyard
The Lumberyard for Model Shipwrights
Lauck Street Shipyard College of Model Shipbuilding
Syren Ship Model Fittings & SuppliesFor new or limited experience wood modelers,
we strongly recommend the technique book
Ship Modeling Simplified.
Please note: The manufacturer of this wood kit is based in Italy.
Although complete plans and instructions are included, the limited English instructions
provided require critical thinking and some modification as needed.
This is not a build by numbers kit, and is not for everyone. Additional technique books, and or
access to the advice of an experienced wood modeler or wood model club is
recommended.
Required tools: (not included)
CA glue, Wood Glue, Sanding paper, Hobby knife, Razor Saw, Ruler, Paint, Wood clamps.
To see other wood model ship kits: please click
here.For tools, books, & glue: please click
here.
