Caldercraft Model Boats Catalog
Top Caldercraft Model Boats
Caldercraft HMS Victory
Caldercraft Imara (Twin Screw)
Caldercraft HM Schooner Pickle
Embark on a voyage of craftsmanship with Caldercraft’s world-class maritime kits, where historical soul meets modern engineering excellence.
Premier Vessel Categories
Radio-Controlled Working Boats
From the iconic Joffre to the powerful Imara, these kits feature robust GRP hulls and intricate fittings designed for authentic performance on the water.
Historic and Warship Model Kits
These museum-grade kits allow enthusiasts to recreate legendary naval powerhouses like HMS Victory with meticulous attention to period-accurate detail.
Traditional Wooden Sailing-Ship Kits
Focused on the artistry of “plank-on-frame” construction, these kits offer a sophisticated building experience for those wishing to capture the elegance of historic schooners.
Detailed GRP and Ply Hybrid Kits
By combining pre-moulded fiberglass hulls with CNC-cut birch plywood and etched brass, these models provide the perfect balance of structural integrity and exquisite fine-detailing.
Master Shipbuilder Experiences
Arthur Montgomery Building the Caldercraft Joffre was an absolute masterclass in naval architecture, as the GRP hull arrived with crisp plating lines that made the painting process incredibly satisfying. I spent over six months on the assembly, and the sheer volume of white-metal fittings provided a level of realism that puts other manufacturers to shame; seeing her glide across the lake with the steam launch components fully operational was the crowning achievement of my forty-year modelling hobby.
Eleanor Sterling I recently completed the HM Brig Badger as a static display piece, and I was thoroughly impressed by the quality of the CNC-cut birch ply decks which aligned perfectly without the need for aggressive sanding. The historical notes included in the instruction manual added a wonderful layer of depth to the build, making me feel truly connected to 18th-century maritime history as I navigated the complex rigging stages.
Julian Thorne Transitioning from plastic kits to a Caldercraft “plank-on-frame” schooner was a steep but rewarding learning curve, largely thanks to the premium timber and clear, oversized plans provided in the box. The brass etchings are exceptionally fine, and although the kit requires a significant investment of time, the resulting museum-quality finish makes it a breathtaking centrepiece for my study that draws compliments from every guest.
Caldercraft FAQ
Can these kits be built by beginners to the hobby?
While some smaller vessels serve as entry points, most Caldercraft kits are designed for intermediate to advanced builders due to their complex “plank-on-frame” construction and the high number of intricate metal fittings.
Are the radio-control components like motors and servos included?
No, Caldercraft provides the high-quality physical model (the hull, fittings, and superstructure), but hardware such as motors, speed controllers, and radio gear must be purchased separately to suit your specific performance needs.
What is the advantage of a GRP hull over a traditional timber hull?
The pre-moulded Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) hulls provide a completely waterproof, durable, and structurally stable base that is ideal for radio-controlled operation and features realistic moulded-in details like rivets and plating.
Do I need special tools to work with the white-metal and brass fittings?
Standard modelling tools like fine files, tweezers, and cyanoacrylate (super glue) are essential, as these kits include hundreds of cast parts that require careful cleaning and bonding to the wood or fiberglass surfaces.
Is the rigging thread and sailcloth included in the sailing ship kits?
Most wooden ship kits include various thicknesses of high-quality rigging cord and dowels for masts, though you should check the specific kit description as some may require you to stitch your own sails from provided cloth.
Where can I find spare parts if I lose a small fitting during the build?
Since the kits are manufactured by Jotika Ltd. in the UK, replacement parts and technical support are typically handled through their authorised regional distributors or by contacting the manufacturer directly.