Santa Maria
Wood Model Kit
by Amati

The Santa Maria was a Nao, and the flagship of the Columbus fleet. It was a merchant ship, between 200-600 tons. The boat's length was 75 feet with a wide beam, 25 feet. This allowed it to carry more people and cargo. She had a deep draft, 6 feet. The vessel had three masts, a mainmast, a foremast, and a mizzenmast. Five sails altogether were attached to these masts. Each mast carried one large sail. The foresail and mainsail were square; the sail on the mizzen was a triangular sail known as a lateen mizzen. The ship had a smaller topsail on the mainmast above the mainsail and on the foremast above the foresail. In addition, the ship carried a small square sail, a spritsail, on the bowsprit.

Each sail was attached to a long wooden pole, a yard, which spread the sail out across the top and held it open. The Santa Maria also had a crow's nest on the mainmast. It had a raised stern. There was a forecastle in the bow of the ship. Most of the force used to drive this ship came from the largest mainsail. The other sails were used for “trimming.”

Though many sailors believed that the Santa Maria was a fine ship for her day, Columbus was not so impressed. He did not think it was a ship fit for discovery. Because of the deep draft, the vessel was not suited for sailing near reefs and shallow island waters. In fact, the craft ran aground off Hispaniola and had to be abandoned.

Amati presents a superlative Santa Maria ship model. Kit features plank-on-bulkhead construction with pre-cut frames and keel. Fittings realistically reproduced in cast metal, brass and hardwoods. Sailcloth, rigging line, brightly colored flags and pennants are all supplied. The ship is armed with 6 machine turned brass cannon. Kit is complete with detailed plans and instructions.

Intermediate Skill Level.
Length 21-1/2" • Height 19" • Scale 1:65

(Display Stand not included)

For 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.

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