Start here · Essential guide
Radio Controlled Lifeboat Models
A guide to radio controlled lifeboat models: choosing a class and scale, kit types, motors, waterjets, radio gear, ballast, working features and painting.
RC and Working Models
Lifeboats and Rescue Craft
RNLI lifeboat and rescue craft models, including Tamar, Severn and Shannon class kits and accurate livery.
Atlantic 85 and D Class Inshore Lifeboat Models
How to model the RNLI's Atlantic 85 RIB and D class inflatable: kit options, scales and weights, tubes, outboards, A-frame detail, fast running and livery.
How long is a Tamar class lifeboat?
A Tamar class lifeboat is about 16.3 m (53 ft) long. See its key dimensions, how it compares with other RNLI classes, and model lengths at common scales.
How much does a Tamar class lifeboat cost?
A full-size Tamar class lifeboat cost about £2.7 million when built. See why lifeboats are so expensive, plus what a Tamar model kit and its fit-out cost.
Loyal Class Fleet Tender Model and Slipway
Building Model Slipway's Loyal class fleet tender: the real vessels, what the kit includes and needs, build tips, painting, ballast and how it runs on water.
RNLI Lifeboat Colours: Painting a Model in Accurate Livery
How to paint a model lifeboat in RNLI colours: where the blue and orange go, older schemes, matching shades, priming, masking, decals and restrained weathering.
Severn Class Lifeboat Models: Kits, Scales and Build Tips
Severn class lifeboat models: the 1:12 Speedline kit and small plastic kits, choosing a scale, build order, detailing, crane and Y-boat, ballast and painting.
Shannon Class Lifeboat Models and How to Fit Waterjet Drives
Shannon class lifeboat models: the Airfix 1:72 kit, RC scales and weights, and a step-by-step guide to fitting, sealing and controlling model waterjet drives.
Tamar Class Lifeboat Model Kits
A guide to Tamar class lifeboat model kits: 1:16 kits from Mountfleet and Model Slipway, wood versus GRP, extra parts to budget for, build tips and painting.
Vintage RAF Crash Tender Model Boat Kits
Vintage RAF crash tender model boats: classic wooden kits and plastic electric boats, what to check when buying, building old kits and sympathetic restoration.
Watson and Arun Class Lifeboat Models
How to model Watson and Arun class lifeboats: key features, sizes at common scales, kits, plans and scratch-building, running on water, livery and display.
What are the best wooden model boat kits for adults?
The best wooden model boat kits for adults by type: first kits, sailing ships, workboats, RC-capable and lifeboat kits, plus tools, cost and build time.
Which companies make the best model ship kits?
Well-regarded makers of wooden, plastic and RC lifeboat model ship kits, what makes a kit good, and how to match a maker and kit to your experience.
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