About Model Boating
Making models of full size vessels is something that has been done for hundreds of years. Currently broadly speaking, marine modelling encompasses static, powered and wind driven models. Static models are usually models made purely for display purposes and are normally precise replicas of full size ships. Powered models are normally driven by electric, steam or internal combustion engines and are often radio controlled. These can be purely functional or true scale, and there is substantial support for both types of model. Wind driven models include radio controlled racing yachts as well as scale replicas of full size craft.
Static models include period ships as well as glass case display models of modern vessels and can take many hours of labour to construct. Powered models that are radio controlled are probably what most people usually associate with model boating and there is a large following for this, with some specialising in warships, tugs and lifeboats, but there is also support for functional racing craft that can achieve speeds in excess of 60 mph. Wind driven models are very popular with radio controlled model racing yachts being the most common form with area and national championships being actively pursued for the different classes and sizes of craft.
A number of organisations have evolved, some over 75 years old, that manage model boating for the different sectional interests and actively promote the hobby in the UK and across the world.
- MB is the world’s best-selling model boating title
- Only one competitor in UK – with about 60% of Model Boats’ copy sale
- UK has around 220 model boat clubs with 4,000 very active members and a further 15,000 keenly interested
- Hobby is benefiting from new growth resulting from recent innovations in miniaturising radio control equipment
- In addition to practical articles it covers all major shows and regattas; kit reviews and free plans
- Approximately 50 significant UK advertisers plus several major overseas kit suppliers