Since I got interested in building model boats (well any model building) about 4 years ago my main aim has been to build the classic Faireys; Huntsman 28 and 31 and Swordsman 33. But I also decided I wanted to be a little different, though still sticking with Faireys. One result of this was the River Cruiser and another is this build with one of the main reasons being that it is fitted with a stern drive which I wanted to do at some point. Also as per the name it has a longer cabin and more modern side windows which I like and prefer the overall proportions of the boat. Unfortunately it never went into production which I think was a pity. I started building this a little while ago (surprise, surprise at a scale of 1:12) and got as far as the bath test! I will return to it soon and finish the hardware and electrical installation and progress it to painting.

As with my other builds this model is being built at a scale of 1:12. Like the Swordsman there are drawings available but I like to alter things to suit the way I build and so did my own. Also I started building this as the Sport version - no rear cabin and large cockpit which were primarily built for racing. But I sold my big 46.5" Precedent Huntsman 31 (too big and wrong scale!") and so part way through the build decided to convert it to the more common aft cabin version. The Sport looks great but I will have a number of rear cockpit boats in the fleet. As with the other builds with a bit more work it will be ready for painting.

This is a space that my model hobby shares with real life needs. I'm building on the toolset needed for modeling, but have a long way to go. It certainly serves the purpose for now.

I got myself a boat kit to keep me busy a couple of weeks ago and have enjoyed the build :-) not got it wet yet!

Scratch built from an enlarged early MM plan for an 18" runabout for diesel or electric power. Twin high power (8-18v) brushed internal fan cooled 540 motors, twin fan cooled high power ESCs (3s-4s LiPos), twin 3000mah LiPos, water pump, forced air (air pump) smoke/water/ exhaust system (own design, refined working with Graham 93), lights, GT Power sound module, BT/SD/FDr player stereo (with IR remote,- radio using aux BT player.) Hull is f/glassed balsa with a ply deck and mahogany veneer transom. Most of the deck fittings (vents, fairleads,) are my own resin cast fittings, with some brass hand made fittings as well (wheel, rails cleats etc). Trailer is a work in progress

Started with a Dumas kit of the tug "Brooklyn". I did not like that the kit was mostly plastic and not suitable for steam power. So, based on the photo I turned it to the "Long Island".

I was given this boat tonight at our club's annual swap meet. I don't know anything about it. Any input is appreciated.

Anteo Italian Tug boat, G.R.P. Hull wood deck& superstructure.Brass prop& & rudder.