Took the cruiser out today as well, to try the new coupling I made, and test the new downrated motor. Now using a 550 80T as opposed to the 550 45T previously. Runs very quietly now with almost 0 vibration and a more scale top speed.
{"text":"Took the cruiser out today as well, to try the new coupling I made, and test the new downrated motor. Now using a 550 80T as opposed to the 550 45T previously. Runs very quietly now with almost 0 vibration and a more scale top speed.","subject":"BROADS CRUISER 'FAIRACRE' TEST.","media":[{"id":"165850395053","name":"165850395053","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/165850395053/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/165850395053/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"}],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U749S0LLOcY"}
Took the cruiser out today as well, to try the new coupling I made, and test the new downrated motor. Now using a 550 80T as opposed to the 550 45T previously. Runs very quietly now with almost 0 vibration and a more scale top speed.
Hi jbkiwi, you have done a wonderful job of restoring the model to running order. The plans from MAP originally, she is not a broads cruiser ,but i can see why it was thought to be, but a 40FT Starcraft built in the late 50's early 60's by W Bates and sons on the river Thames at Chertsey in surrey.
Fairacre is one of a range of boats built post war by company from 20 ft inc 25 ft, 29, 30, 33, two 35's 40ft narrow and wide transom models and 7or 8 45ft models some with flybridge some without, the last wooden boat they built only one of , the 47ft Sea star finished in 1976 i seem to remember. There is currently a Star Craft owners club with a good range of the boats in it and have regular meets on the Thames. I worked for the company first on hire fleet in 70's as Saturday lad whilst at school then after a year at Falmoth tech went to work for them full time until august 78 and worked on refurbishing in the paint shop and craning and sliping them to be worked on, sorry to ramble but very happy times for me
Hi jbkiwi, you have done a wonderful job of restoring the model to running order. The plans from MAP originally, she is not a broads cruiser ,but i can see why it was thought to be, but a 40FT Starcraft built in the late 50's early 60's by W Bates and sons on the river Thames at Chertsey in surrey.
Fairacre is one of a range of boats built post war by company from 20 ft inc 25 ft, 29, 30, 33, two 35's 40ft narrow and wide transom models and 7or 8 45ft models some with flybridge some without, the last wooden boat they built only one of , the 47ft Sea star finished in 1976 i seem to remember. There is currently a Star Craft owners club with a good range of the boats in it and have regular meets on the Thames. I worked for the company first on hire fleet in 70's as Saturday lad whilst at school then after a year at Falmoth tech went to work for them full time until august 78 and worked on refurbishing in the paint shop and craning and sliping them to be worked on, sorry to ramble but very happy times for me
Hi DRM, thanks very much for the info, must have been an interesting job. Being at the other end of the world, I'm not sure how you classify your boats up there, - we mainly just have runabouts, launches or yachts/motor sailers, (and a few super yachts). Someone mentioned that's what it was, so I went with that. I previously found a photo of the original named boat (Fairacre II ) on the Bates owners site, and I didn't realise it was a genuine name, (thought it was just the model name) Took quite a bit of research to even find where the model originated, (I think the guy from vintage model boats UK pointed me in the right direction) but eventually found it was from the MM709 plan.(maybe originally MAP).
The original was supposedly built in 1957 and had 2 BMC Commodores fitted, and as you say, was a 40ft model. The boat was renamed 'Lady Nassau' but not sure if it still exists. Very nice looking boats, and a totally different look to our launches (we'd call them a 'bridge decker' here). Most of our earlier launches were Kauri planked, then to laminated ply/ply, some foam sandwich, glass and aluminium. They would be an interesting launch to own down here, and would attract a bit of attention from classic enthusiasts.
If you are interested, check out the Waitematawoodys.com site for everything on classic NZ launches.
JB
Hi DRM, thanks very much for the info, must have been an interesting job. Being at the other end of the world, I'm not sure how you classify your boats up there, - we mainly just have runabouts, launches or yachts/motor sailers, (and a few super yachts). Someone mentioned that's what it was, so I went with that. I previously found a photo of the original named boat (Fairacre II ) on the Bates owners site, and I didn't realise it was a genuine name, (thought it was just the model name) Took quite a bit of research to even find where the model originated, (I think the guy from vintage model boats UK pointed me in the right direction) but eventually found it was from the MM709 plan.(maybe originally MAP).
The original was supposedly built in 1957 and had 2 BMC Commodores fitted, and as you say, was a 40ft model. The boat was renamed 'Lady Nassau' but not sure if it still exists. Very nice looking boats, and a totally different look to our launches (we'd call them a 'bridge decker' here). Most of our earlier launches were Kauri planked, then to laminated ply/ply, some foam sandwich, glass and aluminium. They would be an interesting launch to own down here, and would attract a bit of attention from classic enthusiasts.
If you are interested, check out the Waitematawoodys.com site for everything on classic NZ launches.
JB
Decided to drag the seaplane tender out, as I haven't run it for quite a while, and to test the new camera which is mounted on the TX back handle, rather than on my head. A lot quicker and easier to mount, and you can see what you are shooting. I have modified a backpack camera clamp, so it fits 3 different TXs in seconds.
Probably be making some better couplings for the ST, as the silicone tubes are starting to work up to the motor bearings and rub on the front housings.
{"text":"Decided to drag the seaplane tender out, as I haven't run it for quite a while, and to test the new camera which is mounted on the TX back handle, rather than on my head. A lot quicker and easier to mount, and you can see what you are shooting. I have modified a backpack camera clamp, so it fits 3 different TXs in seconds. \n\nProbably be making some better couplings for the ST, as the silicone tubes are starting to work up to the motor bearings and rub on the front housings.","subject":"Taking the seaplane tender for a run.","media":[{"id":"165850231551","name":"165850231551","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/165850231551/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/165850231551/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"165850236598","name":"165850236598","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/165850236598/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/165850236598/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"165850239994","name":"165850239994","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/165850239994/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/165850239994/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"}],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gi5MVV5Nt0s"}
Decided to drag the seaplane tender out, as I haven't run it for quite a while, and to test the new camera which is mounted on the TX back handle, rather than on my head. A lot quicker and easier to mount, and you can see what you are shooting. I have modified a backpack camera clamp, so it fits 3 different TXs in seconds.
Probably be making some better couplings for the ST, as the silicone tubes are starting to work up to the motor bearings and rub on the front housings.
Hi Phil, I missed the start-up with the sound/water/smoke bit as I was being distracted, but this was mainly to try the camera mounting. Still have to try my airboat which I've added a better camera mount to, for some 'on the water' videos. Have a way to go to catch up to your vids though😁
JB
Hi Phil, I missed the start-up with the sound/water/smoke bit as I was being distracted, but this was mainly to try the camera mounting. Still have to try my airboat which I've added a better camera mount to, for some 'on the water' videos. Have a way to go to catch up to your vids though😁
JB
Many years ago I bought a scale(not sure what scale) outboard motor. Have been looking for a suitable hull for the motor. Rather recently this cabin cruiser showed up.
First two photos of the as found.Previously found outboard attached.
{"text":"Many years ago I bought a scale(not sure what scale) outboard motor. Have been looking for a suitable hull for the motor. Rather recently this cabin cruiser showed up.\nFirst two photos of the as found.Previously found outboard attached.","subject":"Static outboard cruiser converted to R/C","media":[{"id":"165668917022","name":"165668917022","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/165668917022/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/165668917022/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"165668926135","name":"165668926135","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/165668926135/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/165668926135/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"}],"youtubeUrl":""}
Many years ago I bought a scale(not sure what scale) outboard motor. Have been looking for a suitable hull for the motor. Rather recently this cabin cruiser showed up.
First two photos of the as found.Previously found outboard attached.
Bill that’s very cool. Wondering if it’s possible to access the motor and replace it with one of the same type but less powerful, that way you wouldn’t have to mess with the end points. Anyway, very nice!!
Cash
Bill that’s very cool. Wondering if it’s possible to access the motor and replace it with one of the same type but less powerful, that way you wouldn’t have to mess with the end points. Anyway, very nice!!
Cash
With some sleight-of-hand & other chicanery I hid all the RC gear except the motor leads and the esc switch.😎
With some sleight-of-hand & other chicanery I hid all the RC gear except the motor leads and the esc switch.😎[{"id":"165819152346","name":"165819152346","caption":"","url":"https:\/\/model-boats.com\/media\/165819152346\/l","thumbUrl":"https:\/\/model-boats.com\/media\/165819152346\/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"165921844963","name":"165921844963","caption":"","url":"https:\/\/model-boats.com\/media\/165921844963\/l","thumbUrl":"https:\/\/model-boats.com\/media\/165921844963\/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"}]
Just a simple model I built for my son about 14yrs ago. He wasn't interested (more into computers) so I use it for the salt water. Just a brass shaft and 12v high speed 380 motor, runs quite well. Ran it to try out the new 4K camera, (set on 1920x1080) but had to convert the vid from MOV to MP4 to edit it, so it reduced the clarity a bit. At least it doesn't have a blurry bit in the middle of the lens like my 10yr old one. have to figure out a better way, (or get a better editor)
This might be clearer https://youtu.be/_gA_aiwfRWc
{"text":"Just a simple model I built for my son about 14yrs ago. He wasn't interested (more into computers) so I use it for the salt water. Just a brass shaft and 12v high speed 380 motor, runs quite well. Ran it to try out the new 4K camera, (set on 1920x1080) but had to convert the vid from MOV to MP4 to edit it, so it reduced the clarity a bit. At least it doesn't have a blurry bit in the middle of the lens like my 10yr old one. have to figure out a better way, (or get a better editor) \n\nThis might be clearer https://youtu.be/_gA_aiwfRWc","subject":"RC Maiami, a bit of fun on the estuary","media":[{"id":"165243290741","name":"165243290741","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/165243290741/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/165243290741/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"}],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3r5HRCbcEA"}
Just a simple model I built for my son about 14yrs ago. He wasn't interested (more into computers) so I use it for the salt water. Just a brass shaft and 12v high speed 380 motor, runs quite well. Ran it to try out the new 4K camera, (set on 1920x1080) but had to convert the vid from MOV to MP4 to edit it, so it reduced the clarity a bit. At least it doesn't have a blurry bit in the middle of the lens like my 10yr old one. have to figure out a better way, (or get a better editor)
After a little video of the H.Sw.Visby I tested out my no name R/C boat over the winter change motor coulping & receiver . So she need a little test run at the Hamilton Bay Leander dock seemed o/k to me so looking forward to a summer of model boat sailing . The kids must have been off due to Earth Day & here in Canada Covid restriction have been mostly over .Thank goodness .
{"text":"After a little video of the H.Sw.Visby I tested out my no name R/C boat over the winter change motor coulping & receiver . So she need a little test run at the Hamilton Bay Leander dock seemed o/k to me so looking forward to a summer of model boat sailing . The kids must have been off due to Earth Day & here in Canada Covid restriction have been mostly over .Thank goodness .","subject":"No Name boat","media":[],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nk8b2Gi7tNY"}
After a little video of the H.Sw.Visby I tested out my no name R/C boat over the winter change motor coulping & receiver . So she need a little test run at the Hamilton Bay Leander dock seemed o/k to me so looking forward to a summer of model boat sailing . The kids must have been off due to Earth Day & here in Canada Covid restriction have been mostly over .Thank goodness .
At first I was surprised to see you with boats on open water in Canada.
This week we finally have open water in Central MN, but it was just on the news that there is still 18" of ice on the lakes in northern MN.
THEN, I looked at a map and realized that you are considerably south of me. Basically as far south as the MN Iowa border.
OK, I'm jealous! I want to be able to play on the lake with my toy boats too!
🤔
At first I was surprised to see you with boats on open water in Canada.
This week we finally have open water in Central MN, but it was just on the news that there is still 18" of ice on the lakes in northern MN.
THEN, I looked at a map and realized that you are considerably south of me. Basically as far south as the MN Iowa border.
OK, I'm jealous! I want to be able to play on the lake with my toy boats too!
🤔
Just a little more fine tuning before model will be ready for a tiny pond .Its only 16 inch from bow to stern .
{"text":"Just a little more fine tuning before model will be ready for a tiny pond .Its only 16 inch from bow to stern .","subject":"African Queen Test Motor Rudder Receiver & Battery","media":[{"id":"164934029471","name":"164934029471","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164934029471/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164934029471/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"}],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QAJ-3qSG_E"}
Just a quick update with the new camera boat before fitting and running with the Gopro attached.
Observations :-
1. Maneuverability - Great - but better control with high and low rate options!.
2. Speed - Too much ? - may be , but enough for me to throttle back quickly !.
3. Camera - Good balance and rotation for 360*.
4. Cost - Minimal - ie. Motor & ESC kit from Hobbybitz.
5. Noise - 5/10
6. Fun Factor - 10/10 - just for fun ! - enjoy RC Sailing !.
NOTE - I would be interested to know of any theories in respect of the "PULSING NOISE" of the motor ?????
Cheers
Phil
{"text":"Just a quick update with the new camera boat before fitting and running with the Gopro attached.\nObservations :- \n1. Maneuverability - Great - but better control with high and low rate options!.\n2. Speed - Too much ? - may be , but enough for me to throttle back quickly !.\n3. Camera - Good balance and rotation for 360*.\n4. Cost - Minimal - ie. Motor & ESC kit from Hobbybitz.\n5. Noise - 5/10\n6. Fun Factor - 10/10 - just for fun ! - enjoy RC Sailing !.\n\nNOTE - I would be interested to know of any theories in respect of the \"PULSING NOISE\" of the motor ?????\nCheers \nPhil","subject":"Camera Boat - update - ( NOTE PULSING NOISE ?? )","media":[],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2x-nPMiHLcM"}
Just a quick update with the new camera boat before fitting and running with the Gopro attached.
Observations :-
1. Maneuverability - Great - but better control with high and low rate options!.
2. Speed - Too much ? - may be , but enough for me to throttle back quickly !.
3. Camera - Good balance and rotation for 360*.
4. Cost - Minimal - ie. Motor & ESC kit from Hobbybitz.
5. Noise - 5/10
6. Fun Factor - 10/10 - just for fun ! - enjoy RC Sailing !.
NOTE - I would be interested to know of any theories in respect of the "PULSING NOISE" of the motor ?????
Cheers
Phil
This was my very first RC project. In fact, it was only to be a static model, but then things changed.
Currently she's a shelf-queen as the rigging takes a while.
She can be converted to a fishing boat and fitted with a 5 blade 42mm prop and brushed 540 motor.
The sail rudder is larger and requires the prop to be removed.
{"text":"This was my very first RC project. In fact, it was only to be a static model, but then things changed.\nCurrently she's a shelf-queen as the rigging takes a while.\nShe can be converted to a fishing boat and fitted with a 5 blade 42mm prop and brushed 540 motor.\nThe sail rudder is larger and requires the prop to be removed.","subject":"The Juliana II - a Hampden plank-on-frame Schooner","media":[{"id":"164712183090","name":"164712183090","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164712183090/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164712183090/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164712189037","name":"164712189037","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164712189037/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164712189037/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164712194577","name":"164712194577","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164712194577/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164712194577/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"}],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Jjan4CS7S4"}
The Juliana II - a Hampden plank-on-frame Schooner
This was my very first RC project. In fact, it was only to be a static model, but then things changed.
Currently she's a shelf-queen as the rigging takes a while.
She can be converted to a fishing boat and fitted with a 5 blade 42mm prop and brushed 540 motor.
The sail rudder is larger and requires the prop to be removed.
Perhaps not a boat, but no pond is complete without one of these gems.
This lighthouse is fully remote controlled.
The lamp rotates at 12 rpm allowing a flash of light every 5 seconds.
A 5kg weight is mounted under the island and winched down to the bottom of the dam to anchor the island. The winch is powered by a 6V Ryobi Cordless Screw Driver's gearbox and motor.
The Fog Horn is operated by a 9V motor with a counterbalance causing a vibration inside the tower, amplifying the sound effect of a steam horn.
It's built at 1:35 scale and stands 80cm tall.
{"text":"Perhaps not a boat, but no pond is complete without one of these gems.\nThis lighthouse is fully remote controlled. \nThe lamp rotates at 12 rpm allowing a flash of light every 5 seconds.\nA 5kg weight is mounted under the island and winched down to the bottom of the dam to anchor the island. The winch is powered by a 6V Ryobi Cordless Screw Driver's gearbox and motor.\nThe Fog Horn is operated by a 9V motor with a counterbalance causing a vibration inside the tower, amplifying the sound effect of a steam horn.\nIt's built at 1:35 scale and stands 80cm tall.","subject":"The Northern City Lighthouse","media":[{"id":"164668208749","name":"164668208749","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164668208749/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164668208749/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"}],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddsdMt9vfcU"}
Perhaps not a boat, but no pond is complete without one of these gems.
This lighthouse is fully remote controlled.
The lamp rotates at 12 rpm allowing a flash of light every 5 seconds.
A 5kg weight is mounted under the island and winched down to the bottom of the dam to anchor the island. The winch is powered by a 6V Ryobi Cordless Screw Driver's gearbox and motor.
The Fog Horn is operated by a 9V motor with a counterbalance causing a vibration inside the tower, amplifying the sound effect of a steam horn.
It's built at 1:35 scale and stands 80cm tall.
Haven't tried hard turns and full throttle yet (usually 1/2 is plenty) so though I'd take the boat out and chuck it round a bit. Didn't fall over, so passed the test. More than enough go for 'sensible' use,- could even afford to de-power it a bit. Not too bad for brushed motors.
{"text":"Haven't tried hard turns and full throttle yet (usually 1/2 is plenty) so though I'd take the boat out and chuck it round a bit. Didn't fall over, so passed the test. More than enough go for 'sensible' use,- could even afford to de-power it a bit. Not too bad for brushed motors.","subject":"VINTAGE RUNABOUT SPEED TEST","media":[],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oURuBCs99sM"}
Haven't tried hard turns and full throttle yet (usually 1/2 is plenty) so though I'd take the boat out and chuck it round a bit. Didn't fall over, so passed the test. More than enough go for 'sensible' use,- could even afford to de-power it a bit. Not too bad for brushed motors.
Wonder why they were also called speedboats JB ? Looks just the part ! Great stuff - fast enough to make the passengers nervous - hope the one does not lose her head again......
Wonder why they were also called speedboats JB ? Looks just the part ! Great stuff - fast enough to make the passengers nervous - hope the one does not lose her head again......
From a design concept incorporating an old power boat destined for the rubbish tip ! - to a functional Camera platform to capture some of the fantastic models that sail at our local venues.
The emerging creation ( all be it rough and ready !) will incorporate rotating fan motor and 360 degree rotating camera with live feed FPV camera.
My enjoyment is to capture the the skill, time and effort that fellow modelers put into their creations - whether they be they scratch built, own designs, kit sets or off the shelf.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkhX2dJ3Cqk
As Requested :- Link to previous Camera Boat (SwampDawg)
*** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07PFvnUu2XM ***
{"text":"From a design concept incorporating an old power boat destined for the rubbish tip ! - to a functional Camera platform to capture some of the fantastic models that sail at our local venues.\n\nThe emerging creation ( all be it rough and ready !) will incorporate rotating fan motor and 360 degree rotating camera with live feed FPV camera.\n\nMy enjoyment is to capture the the skill, time and effort that fellow modelers put into their creations - whether they be they scratch built, own designs, kit sets or off the shelf.\n\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkhX2dJ3Cqk\n\nAs Requested :- Link to previous Camera Boat (SwampDawg) \n*** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07PFvnUu2XM ***","subject":"Camera Boat - still emerging !","media":[{"id":"164260113498","name":"164260113498","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260113498/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260113498/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164260114865","name":"164260114865","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260114865/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260114865/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164260116862","name":"164260116862","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260116862/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260116862/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164260119412","name":"164260119412","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260119412/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260119412/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164260120538","name":"164260120538","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260120538/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260120538/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164260123536","name":"164260123536","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260123536/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260123536/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164260123641","name":"164260123641","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260123641/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260123641/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164260125631","name":"164260125631","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260125631/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260125631/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"},{"id":"164260455891","name":"164260455891","caption":"","url":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260455891/l","thumbUrl":"https://model-boats.com/media/164260455891/s","isImage":false,"ext":"file"}],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkhX2dJ3Cqk"}
From a design concept incorporating an old power boat destined for the rubbish tip ! - to a functional Camera platform to capture some of the fantastic models that sail at our local venues.
The emerging creation ( all be it rough and ready !) will incorporate rotating fan motor and 360 degree rotating camera with live feed FPV camera.
My enjoyment is to capture the the skill, time and effort that fellow modelers put into their creations - whether they be they scratch built, own designs, kit sets or off the shelf.
As Requested :- Link to previous Camera Boat (SwampDawg)
****
Had a little trouble getting my sound to work properly but with a little fiddling got it working a lot better had to reverse motor leads & switch transmitter forward -reverse switch so it would work in forward direction .
{"text":"Had a little trouble getting my sound to work properly but with a little fiddling got it working a lot better had to reverse motor leads & switch transmitter forward -reverse switch so it would work in forward direction .","subject":"Sound Generator for Midwest tug","media":[],"youtubeUrl":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0fthmMw5no"}
Had a little trouble getting my sound to work properly but with a little fiddling got it working a lot better had to reverse motor leads & switch transmitter forward -reverse switch so it would work in forward direction .
Fairacre is one of a range of boats built post war by company from 20 ft inc 25 ft, 29, 30, 33, two 35's 40ft narrow and wide transom models and 7or 8 45ft models some with flybridge some without, the last wooden boat they built only one of , the 47ft Sea star finished in 1976 i seem to remember. There is currently a Star Craft owners club with a good range of the boats in it and have regular meets on the Thames. I worked for the company first on hire fleet in 70's as Saturday lad whilst at school then after a year at Falmoth tech went to work for them full time until august 78 and worked on refurbishing in the paint shop and craning and sliping them to be worked on, sorry to ramble but very happy times for me
The original was supposedly built in 1957 and had 2 BMC Commodores fitted, and as you say, was a 40ft model. The boat was renamed 'Lady Nassau' but not sure if it still exists. Very nice looking boats, and a totally different look to our launches (we'd call them a 'bridge decker' here). Most of our earlier launches were Kauri planked, then to laminated ply/ply, some foam sandwich, glass and aluminium. They would be an interesting launch to own down here, and would attract a bit of attention from classic enthusiasts.
If you are interested, check out the Waitematawoodys.com site for everything on classic NZ launches.
JB