sailboat building kit

Affordable Sailboats You Can Build at Home

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

September 13, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• There are many sailboats that anyone can build from home depending on tastes
• Budget will be the biggest deciding factor on a majority of the process
• Consider kits that come with most of what you need or choose ones that are all-inclusive
• Design complexities and new materials may make the building time process longer
• Plan the best you can ahead of time to save money and your working hours

‍ Buying a sailboat can be expensive, but building your own can save you money. So what are sailboats you can build from home?

Sailboats that you can build from home will likely be a small boat under 20 feet. These could be from many different boat suppliers such as B&B Yachts, Brooks Boat Designs, and Chase Small Craft. Boat plans will vary based on your budget and how much time you have on your hands.

Based on my previous experience, building your own boat will take much longer than if a professional were to do it. You also have to be able to study plans, consider various sailboat designs, and have tons of supplies such as fiberglass tape or fiberglass cloth. On top of that, you will also have to be good with your hands.

Table of contents

‍ Top 10 Affordable Sailboats Anyone Can Build at Home

Building your own pocket cruiser or other styles from boat plans is an impressive feat, as this will need dedicated time and money to assure your boat sails safely. Boat building takes a lot of patience as well, especially since this will not be completed in a fast manner.

Finding boat plans and materials that fit your budget will be key to being able to complete the project. The time it takes to complete these projects will vary on your overall experience and needs. Below are 10 of the most affordable sailboats that you can build in the comfort of your home.

B&B Yachts

B&B Yachts have 14 different boat plans you can choose from to find the boat of your desires. Their shop is located along the Bay River in North Carolina where they construct all of the kits and have a 100 foot dock to show off your project once you complete it.

One popular model to check out is their Core Sound 15, as it is the perfect size for those wanting to build a modest size boat for a handful of people on board. Their website features some videos of completed projects and the plans or kits for purchase.

• 14 different models to choose from plus some dinghies
• Various monohull and multihull options
• Friendly customer service with attractive prices
• Might be too many options for some that are indecisive
• Not ideal for those wanting to have a motor sailer

Brooks Boat Designs

Brooks Boat Designs has a handful of options to consider for your next sailboat building project. They are located in Brookline, Maine and give the option to buy the kits or have them build one from scratch for you. They have plenty of knowledge, so do not be shy to ask about modifications or custom features you are looking for.

Depending on your specifics, they can attempt to accommodate some of their plans to help fit your desired outcome. By checking out their site, you can see many examples of their construction in progress and what the boats will look like when completed.

• Offers a variety of kits
• Plans vary around $50 and up, while materials will obviously add more costs
• Some plans can be rowing boats that can convert to sailboats
• Might take a while to hear back from them, as their contact section is a little outdated
• Their plans may not accommodate a ton of extras for your taste

Chase Small Craft

Chase Small Craft offers a simple process for building boats. Their kits are equipped with everything you need and will help save you time than just buying the materials outright and other parts you could need. This is arguably one of the best bang for buck instances if you want to save time and money searching for pieces to your boat.

They are located in Saco, Maine and will ship everything to your home from there. All the necessary materials are included and all you need are the proper tools and working space.

• All-inclusive kits with what you need
• Tons of knowledge on their site for boat building
• Easy process to order and customize
• Complete kits can range over $20,000 for larger boats
• Kits may take up to eight weeks to ship out

Chesapeake Light Craft

You can expect high-quality boat kits from Chesapeake Light Craft . They feature 18 different sailboat kits that vary from eight to 20 feet in length. This should be more than enough to find one for you if you are newer to boat building.

They also have a wide variety of other kits in addition to the sailboat, in the event that you wanted to order a small kayak or paddleboard in addition to your sailboat. The prices vary considerably when considering a small or larger boat, so check the complete list of options to in order to potentially fit your needs.

• Plenty of sailboat offerings to choose from
• Different beautiful hull form options to consider
• Easy to build and perfect for sailing
• Only has basic materials needed for kit, so you may need to purchase other items
• Has epoxy shipping fee no matter if you pick up item

Dudley Dix Yacht Design

Dudley Dix Yacht Design has an extensive list of plywood and single skin sailing boat options. They have plenty of sail plans and kits to consider depending on your goals. These follow a classic look for sailboats, which are aesthetically pleasing.

If you are wanting one to accommodate a small family, they have more than plenty to look through. The cost is not as bad compared to others, but keep in mind that you may need to throw in your own supplies or specific tools to get the job done.

• Plans start at $30 and range up to $7,500 or more for kits
• More than enough of options to consider
• Affordable variety of sailboat offerings
• Might be too many options for those new to sailing
• Most are wood without the use of aluminum or steel

Farrier Marine

If you are in search of a multihull to build, then Farrier Marine is what you need. They offer a unique folding catamaran that is trailerable and give you the option to build it yourself. This not only makes it an appealing option, but anyone can take this multihull boat wherever they want with ease.

It features a thorough construction guide once you receive all of the materials. These also come with stainless steel fasteners and an aluminum mast for high-quality materials. Pricing will vary since you must request which model type you are considering.

• Ability to build a unique catamaran
• In-depth construction guide to help
• Easily handled and trailerable
• Price may be too high
• Limited offerings since only a few multihull options

Glen-L Marine Designs

Building a boat from Glen-L Marine Designs can save you time and money. They feature an easy system to order and receive the kits, as well as an in-depth guide to building them. This is an appealing option compared to most boat kit sellers.

The beauty about Glen-L is that anyone can build these from scratch, so you do not have to be the best boat builder in the world to get it done. They offer guides and helpful insights from their team to point you in the right direction. Plans vary around $15, while kits can range well over $1,000 depending on boat size.

• Nearly 50 designs to choose from
• Complete guide to help anyone build it
• Plenty of price points depending on size
• Might be overwhelming with the amount of options
• Could take a while to get parts since they are popular

John Welsford Boat Designs

John Welsford Boat Designs invites new and veteran boat builders that want a taste of quality small wooden boats. The boat plans are designed to meet your specifications and are catered to your desires.

There are seven sailboat designs to choose from so you do not feel overwhelmed in the process. However, they do not sell kits all the time, so you would need to have the materials or be on the lookout for the best prices when they are available.

• Seven sailboat plans with different sizes
• Quality boat builder and supporting community
• In-depth knowledge provided to you when you order
• Might be too small of boat size
• Kits are not always available

Iain Oughtred

There are plenty of options on the wooden boat store, but you should narrow down your search for Iain Oughtred’s line of sailboat kits and plans. There are 25 different plans to choose from, which should accommodate most everyone looking to build their own boat.

While they do offer some kits, they do not routinely offer sailboat kits. You would need to purchase all of the materials if you are considering one of their sail plans. Keep this in mind if you are considering, as you would need to hunt down the parts yourself.

• 25 different sailboat plans to look through
• Various sizes to contemplate for you sailing needs
• Prices will vary but are not bad compared to market
• No sailboat kits, only plans
• Newer boat builders might find too many options unappealing

Paul Gartside Boat Builder and Designer

Gartside Boats is a boat builder company based in Long Island, New York that showcases a variety of boats from traditional and newer methods of boat building. Within that variety, they have boat plans meant for six to 50 feet in length.

With an abundance of options, you will need to contact them regarding prices and any customizable options. Kits may vary as well, as they typically design in-house and build for you.

• Experienced boat designer that can accommodate with custom plans
• Many options are trailerable
• Can have plans for up to a 50 foot boat
• You will need to contact them for prices
• Customized options may make process more complicated for new boat builders

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Sailboat at Home?

As you have likely already done so, the math between building your own boat and buying one may be a huge difference. Likewise, you may even enjoy the challenge of taking an older boat that is gutted and restoring with parts from a kit to build one new again.

But how much does it cost exactly to build a boat from the comfort of your own garage or workshop? The prices are going to vary dramatically depending on your situation and material needed to get the job done. In addition, the time that it takes to complete this will also vary.

Sail plans are rather inexpensive if you are aiming to build a small boat. These plans allow you to see the workings of the boat design and what you need to build the boat.

Without these plans, you will not know the exact details of the design and it can cause major issues with the boat’s hull or other areas of the boat. Think of these as the backbone or instructions of the boat’s infancy before being built.

Price Per Square Foot

You should assume to pay anywhere between $300 to $600 per square foot if you are interested in building a boat. Buying a kit outright can be a good way to save time, but oftentimes these do not come with everything you need.

Instead, you should try to source as much of the materials at the best price as possible. Thinking ahead is part of the process and you might be able to score a deal at a lumber yard or hardware store for parts.

Boat Designs Matter

The design of the boat will be much different from one boat to the next, regardless if they are the same size in length. If you are pondering boats that range anywhere between 16 and 20 feet, you should factor in the shape of the hull, any rigging, and various appendages.

Prices tend to increase when there are more complexities within the designs. If you are considering a kit with more details than others, you will also have to pay more for the designs on that as well.

Kits Can Differ

It is important to understand that all kits are not going to be the same. As you gander at sailboat kits online to stitch together, you need to thoroughly look over to see if you have everything you need before buying.

It would also be at your advantage to ask the seller if any additional parts or supplies are needed. This may change your dynamic on the kit buying process and you may pass up one for another if it has everything you need. An all-inclusive kit may cost several hundred, if not thousands, of dollars more to have the convenience of everything in the bundle.

Construction Approaches

Some boat plans may require you to have certain tools to get the job done. This means special saws or planers, which the average person simply does not have.

Purchasing specialty tools might be expensive upfront and hard to find depending on what it is. Your best bet would be to check locally for others trying to sell their tools or consider a boat plan that does not require extensive tools to finish the job.

How Long Does it Take to Build a Sailboat?

An easy to build sailboat could take a while to build from scratch. Many different variances come into play that are difficult to pinpoint for everyone. But how long is that exactly and how will your experience play into this?

A fun project to sail in the wind could take you several months to well over a year depending on the boat plan and how big your boat is going to be. In addition, the materials all need to be accounted for prior to starting in the event a hardware store does not have them in stock.

Time Varies

The time that passes for simple boat designs on small sailing vessels can be done in a few weeks. This is assuming you have everything you need and work non-stop around the clock.

Certain complex situations may make the process long, such as the difficulty of working with some materials. If you are a skilled laborer, it may take you half the time compared to a novice. The amount of time it can take will vary on your availability and skill level.

Planning ahead will undoubtedly offer the most time-saving features. It also helps if you can tackle parts of the project at your own pace.

Complexity of Design

The design of the boat may make the construction process longer. For example, it may take you longer to build a catamaran compared to a similar lengthed monohull.

More complex designs might require more materials, therefore making the process a bit longer to complete. Furthermore, you will also need more experience working with difficult designs and that will affect you more as a newbie.

Be sure to manage your expectations well and do not allow yourself to become too stressed over this fun project. If you can, seek expert boat building advice from a local builder or the company you purchased sail plans through.

Quality Materials

The quality of the materials will matter significantly when building a boat and will greatly affect the time it takes to construct it. Handling fiberglass or carbon fiber might require specialty tools, while wood also demands a certain level of craftsmanship.

If you are not skilled at working with the material at hand, it might affect the quality of the build and you may have to go back to fix mistakes. This will definitely add more time to your project, because mistakes are bound to happen with your first project.

To save time, consider adding the tools and materials throughout the year or as often as your budget allows. You may want to try testing your skills on fiberglass or other materials to get a feel for how to work with it.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Sailboat?

If you're on a tight budget, there are ways to build a sailboat affordably and still end up with a seaworthy boat. You can choose to start completely from scratch or consider using a self-build kit. If you want to hop on a sailboat project, let me help you break down the costs of building one.

The average price range for building a sailboat from scratch is between $10,000 and $20,000. A self-build kit for a 17' sailboat can be purchased for $2,500, while a sail-away Puur 17 kit can cost between $14,000 and $18,000. Meanwhile, building a 21ft gaff-rigged cutter can cost between $33,000 and $35,000.

If you're building dinghies, you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on the size and materials used. Let's look at the estimated costs of building other types of sailboats and what factors can affect these costs.

• If you are on a tight budget, you can try starting to build a basic dinghy, which only costs around $1,500.
• If you're building a smaller boat, try to use less expensive materials, such as plywood or fiberglass, to keep costs down.
• You can save a significant amount of money on labor costs—around $10,000 if you do all the building yourself.
• A plan includes information on the materials needed for construction, as well as step-by-step instructions for assembling the boat.
• A catamaran with a more complex design or more advanced features costs around $50,000–$500,000 to build.

On this page:

Breakdown of costs in building a sailboat, average cost of building different types of sailboats, how to build a sailboat on a budget.

The average price range for building a sailboat from scratch is between $10,000 and $20,000 , but this can be much higher if you want to build an extremely high-quality craft or if you live in an area that is especially expensive.

Below is a table showing the estimated range of costs when building a sailboat:

Consider the materials you will use and the amount you need

Some common materials used in sailboat construction include fiberglass, wood, aluminum, and steel. The estimated cost of each material is as follows:

If you plan to build an aluminum sailboat, you might want to check out its pros and cons .

Factor in the costs of equipment

Building a sailboat requires a variety of specialized tools and equipment, such as saws, sanders, drills, and clamps. In addition to these basic tools, there are also more specialized pieces of equipment that may be necessary, such as a planer, a router, and a jointer. The table below shows how much each of these equipment costs:

Take into account the costs of labor

If you have the skills and experience to build the boat yourself, you can save a significant amount of money on labor costs. However, building a sailboat is a time-consuming process, and you should factor in the value of your time when calculating the overall cost of the project.

If you hire a professional boat builder, the cost of labor can be quite high, based on the complexity of the boat and the builder's experience and expertise. Although hiring a professional builder can be more expensive, it can ensure that the boat is built to high standards and is seaworthy.

Budget for purchasing a plan

If you are building a sailboat from plans, you will need to purchase the plans themselves. A plan refers to a set of detailed instructions and diagrams for building a specific sailboat design. It includes information on the materials needed for construction, as well as step-by-step instructions for assembling the boat.

Plans for a smaller, simpler sailboat may cost a few hundred dollars, while plans for a larger, more complex sailboat may cost several thousand dollars. The plan also includes the estimated timeline for completing the boat construction process. Building a sailing yacht can take at least 10 - 24 months to complete .

Carefully evaluate different sailboat plans before making a purchase to ensure that they are suitable for your needs and skill level. You may also want to consult with a professional boat builder or designer to help you choose the right plans and provide guidance during the construction process.

Account for miscellaneous expenses

There are a variety of other expenses which can add up quickly and should be factored into the overall cost of the project, such as the following:

• Permits: Depending on the location where the sailboat is being built, there may be permits required for construction.
• Insurance: Sailboats are valuable assets and require insurance coverage to protect against damage, loss, or theft. Insurance premiums can be a significant expense, especially for larger sailboats. Read this article to see the current costs of sailboat insurance.
• Transportation: If the sailboat is being constructed in a location that is far from the water, transportation costs may be incurred to move the boat to the water. This can include fees for a trailer, a truck, or a professional boat transport company.
• Miscellaneous Materials: There may be other materials required for the project that are not included in the initial cost estimate, such as hardware such as screws, bolts, and fittings, which may need to be purchased separately.

Sailboats come in various types, each designed with different features and purposes. The type of sailboat you choose will affect the cost of building it. Here are some common types of sailboats and their average costs:

The cost of building a dinghy

Dinghies are small sailboats that are typically used for racing or leisure sailing. They are usually less than 20 feet long and are designed to be sailed by one or two people.

For a basic dinghy, the cost can be as low as $1,500. This would typically involve using plywood or fiberglass for the hull, and basic rigging and hardware. However, for a more high-end dinghy, the cost can be as much as $10,000 or more. This would typically involve using high-quality materials such as carbon fiber or Kevlar for the hull, and more advanced rigging and hardware.

The cost of building a daysailer

Daysailers are slightly larger than dinghies and are designed for sailors who want to enjoy a day on the water without the expense and maintenance of a larger boat. Daysailers come in a variety of designs, from traditional wooden boats to modern fiberglass models. Some popular brands of daysailers include the J/Boat, the Laser, and the Sunfish.

These types of sailboats can accommodate up to six people and are usually between 20 and 30 feet long. A basic daysailer can be built for as little as $10,000, while a more luxurious model can cost upwards of $30,000. The most common materials used for building daysailers are wood, fiberglass, and aluminum.

The cost of building a cruiser

Cruisers are larger sailboats that are designed for long-distance sailing. The best-size cruiser usually ranges from 30 - 40 feet long.

Building a cruiser can cost between $30,000 and $100,000. Some cruisers may have additional amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters, which can increase the overall cost.

The cost of building a racing sailboat

Racing sailboats are designed for speed and agility. They are usually between 20 and 30 feet long and are built with lightweight materials.

Building a racing sailboat can cost between $20,000 and $50,000, depending on the size and materials used. Since these sailboats are designed to be as lightweight as possible, it means that high-performance materials such as carbon fiber may be used, which can increase the overall cost.

The cost of building a catamaran

Catamarans are sailboats with two hulls. They are designed for stability and speed and are usually between 30 and 50 feet long, but the perfect size for sailing is around 37037 feet . Building a catamaran can cost between $50,000 and $500,000.

The larger the catamaran, the more expensive it will be to build. The materials used in the construction of the catamaran can also impact the cost, so if a catamaran is made of fiberglass, it will be less expensive than one made of carbon fiber. A catamaran with a more complex design or more advanced features will generally cost more to build.

The cost of building a trimaran

Trimarans are sailboats with three hulls, which are usually between 30 and 50 feet long. The cost of building a trimaran ranges between $50,000 and $500,000.

Since trimarans are generally larger and more complex than monohull boats, they require more materials and labor to build. Additionally, trimarans often require specialized equipment and expertise to construct, which can drive up the cost of the project.

Trimarans are also often built using high-quality materials like carbon fiber, Kevlar, and other advanced composites, which can be quite expensive. These materials are chosen for their strength, durability, and lightweight, which are all important factors for a high-performance sailing vessel.

Below are some tips to help you build a seaworthy sailboat without breaking the bank:

Consider a self-build kit : If you're handy with tools and have some building experience, you might want to consider a self-build sailboat kit. These kits come with everything you need to build a sailboat, including plans, materials, and hardware. Self-build kits can be a cost-effective way to build a sailboat, with prices ranging from $2,500 for a 17' sailboat kit to $14,000 to $18,000 for a Puur 17 kit, whichever you'd like to choose.

Choose your materials wisely : You don't want to skimp on quality, but you also don't want to overspend on expensive materials. With this, perhaps consider using plywood instead of solid wood for the hull, as it's more affordable and easier to work with. You can also look for deals on used materials, such as sails, rigging, and hardware, to save money.

Keep it simple : The more complex the design, the more expensive it will be to build. A simple design with a basic rig can be just as seaworthy as a more complex design, and it will be easier and cheaper to build.

Do it yourself : If you have the skills and experience, try doing as much of the work yourself as possible. This can include everything from building the hull to installing the rigging and hardware. Doing the work yourself can save you a lot of money on labor costs, and it can be a rewarding experience to build your own sailboat from scratch.

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Bella 10 Skiff

Originally designed to teach boatbuilding technique, the Devlin Bella 10 is an easy building, elegant design that comes together in a fast rowing, lightweight skiff.

The Devlin Bella 12 is a boat that will row nicely with one or two aboard, yet be able to accept a very small outboard for those longer trips.

The Devlin Cackler is a new generation hunting skiff designed for hunting in areas where seaworthiness is essential and at a time of year when great distances may need to be covered in a hurry to avoid cold nasty weather.

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The Candlefish 13 is a versatile small fishing boat. Originally designed to be a cartoppable fishing skiff for high latitude rivers and lakes, she has also proven to be an excellent yacht tender.

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The Candlefish 16 is a burdensome fishing skiff. Deep and seaworthy, it is wonderfully suited to life in our changeable weather and strong tides.

The Dipper 17 was designed for the fisherman and pleasure cruiser that wants to get in and out of the weather and for the diehards that want to be out no matter what the weather.

Originally designed to fit in a 20' shipping container, the Dipper 19 is roomy inside, making for a comfortable, economical cruiser.

Duckling 17

Sleek lines and a beautiful sheer make the Devlin Duckling 17 a delight to row and own. She is light and responsive and easily handled, providing great exercise for the single oarsman.

The first Devlin design, the Egret is a proven 15' 3" open sail-and-oar adventurer. Easily singlehanded, she is stiff, stable, and comfortable in a breeze.

The Devlin Eider is a wonderful 17' 3" cabin sailboat. It is a great step up in size and function from the 15' Nancy's China, yet is still compact and trailerable.

Krista-x Rower 24 Build Kits are Available Now!

CNC cut build kits for the Krista-x Rower 24 are available now. Click on the photo above to find links to this couple's build of the rower and then photo journal of their row from Vancouver to Prince Rupert, British Columbia using the inside passage.

Lit’l Coot 18 Bilge Keel

The Lit’l Coot is a wonderful little pocket cruiser, ideally suited to the waters of Puget Sound or the inside passage. She is trailerable on a small powerboat style trailer, and compact enough to store in the average residential garage. The bilge keels allow her...

Lit’l Petrel 9

The Devlin Lit'l Petrel is the big sister to the Micro Petrel. She has the same ease of use, the same easy build, and the same utility.

Micro Petrel 8

The Micro Petrel is a great 8' yacht tender. She is the design response to the need for a small, rugged, lightweight yacht tender.

Nancy’s China 15

Devlin's Nancy's China is easy to handle, easy to set up from trailer, and an enjoyable sailboat that was an instant success for Devlin Designing Boatbuilders.

New Boat Building Kits Available for the Banjo 20, Pelicano 20, and Surf Scoter 24, and Krista-X

Sam is always adding new kits to the mix. The above 4 kits are the latest ones he's created. Just contact Sam if building a Devlin Boat is on your wish list.! 

Oarling II 17

Sleek lines and a beautiful sheer make the Oarling a delight to row and own. She is light, responsive and easily maneuvered, providing great transportation for the single oarsman or with passengers and cargo.

Pelicano 18 Shrimper

The Shrimper version of the Pelicano 18 has the heart of a workboat in a modern, fast planing hull.

Pelicano 23 Shrimper

The Pelicano 23 Shrimper features a covered helm area and large cockpit for fishing fun! It's a unique combination of real world durability mixed with the classic Devlin style.

Song Wren 21

The Song Wren 21 is designed as a responsive yet relaxing sailboat for everything from day trips to weekend cruises.

Notice to our valued Devlin Boat customers

As always, if you have any questions about orders (past or present), don’t hesitate to get in touch!

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Artfully Designed and Crafted Boats since 1978

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Clark Craft offers the largest selection of boat plans and kits in the country. We have hundreds of boat designs for everything from a 6' rowing pram to daysailers to sport fisherman powerboats. Our designs are proven by the thousands of craft built by amateur boatbuilders. Come browse around our on-line catalog filled with various boats plans and kits. Please review our Return Policy before purchasing any items. © Clark Craft [clarkcraft.com] 16-99 Aqua Lane, Tonawanda, NY 14150 Tel: (716) 873-2640 Fax: (716) 873-2651

Abaco 23 AB23-CNC Kit

• $ 8,948.25
• The plywood kits do not include the plans or the epoxy/glass! Shipping Included for CNC kits within lower 48 US States *
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Adelie 14 AD14-CNC Kit

• $ 5,294.00

Adelie 16 AD16-CNC Kit

• $ 5,305.50

Alexa’s Rocket 15 AR15-CNC Kit

• $ 3,189.10

Caravelle 16 CV16-CNC Kit

• $ 2,048.95

Carolina Express 25 CX25-CNC Kit

• $ 10,851.25
• The plywood kits do not include the plans or the epoxy/glass!

Carolina Sportfish 23 CS23-CNC Kit

• $ 11,489.53

Carolina Sportfish 25 CS25-CNC Kit

• $ 12,085.60

Cat 22 CT22-CNC Kit

• $ 8,627.90

Cat Boat 12 C12-CNC Kit

• $ 1,635.80

Cat Ketch 17 CK17-CNC Kit

• $ 2,970.10

Chenoa 12 CH12-CNC Kit

• $ 626.00

Chenoa 14 CH14-CNC Kit

Chenoa 16 CH16-CNC Kit

Classic 17 C17-CNC Kit

• $ 5,982.50

Classic 19 C19-CNC Kit

• $ 6,970.40

Classic 19 Express CX19-CNC Kit

• $ 7,160.80

Classic 21 C21-CNC Kit

• $ 7,812.50

Complete Marinepoxy/CNC Kit Solo Flats Skiff 14 SK14

• $ 1,954.50
• Complete SK14 kit includes everything you need to build this boat including the CNC Cut Plywood, as well as the Epoxy/Fiberglass: - Printed Plans - Complete CNC Kit - 3 gallons epoxy resin - 10 yards of woven fiberglass 6 oz. - 2 pounds of woodflour for putty and glue - 1 pound of Blended Filler Fairing Mix - 50…
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Console and Pilothouse CNC Kits

• $ 473.65 – $ 1,626.25
• View products

Corsair 11 CR11-CNC Kit

• $ 1,647.30

Corsair 13 CR13-CNC Kit

• $ 2,037.45

DE25 Cabin DE25CABIN-CNC Kit

• $ 11,158.85

DE25 Cockpit DE25COCKPIT-CNC Kit

• $ 10,925.20

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Model ship kits & model boat kits.

Wooden model ship building & model boat building is a rewarding and creative hobby. Whether you’re building a wooden ship model kit or model boat kit for the first time or you’re an experienced modeler, you’ll find a historic ship model kit here from the golden age of sailing ships that will bring you many hours of enjoyment. We have high quality wooden model ship kits & wooden model boat kits that everyone can afford. We have ranked the skill level difficulty for each model from 1 ( beginner ) to 5 ( advanced ).

We import our quality products directly from international wooden ship model kit and model boat kit manufacturers including:  Amati , Corel , Dusek , Disar Models ,  Mamoli , Mantua , Modellers Shipyard , Occre , Turk Model , Vanguard Models and Victory Models . As specialists suppliers we are able to bring you the latest ship model products available.

All of our model ship kits for adults and children & model boat kits for adults come with all timbers, fittings, model plans and instructions to complete the model ship. Also all our ship model kits & boat model kits have two layers of planking (double planked) except where identified.

Our ship model range includes wooden model sailboat kits, navy ship models, scale model ships, sailing ship model kits, model steamships, tall ship building kits, scale model boat kits, large model ship kits, Man of War models, historical ships, and wooden yacht model kits.

Some of the most popular model ships are Cutty Sark , Viking Drakker , Mayflower , USS Constitution , Golden Hind , HMB Endeavour & HMS Victory .

All kits come with written building instructions, drawings and plans. European kits come with written building instructions in multiple languages. In some kits the translation of the written building instructions from the primary language to English may not be immediately apparent – however with some examination of the kit’s contents, reading the instructions in conjunction with the plans/drawings the modeler with be able to interpret the instructions.

Popular Model Ship Kits

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Ship Model Categories

Beginner starters packs, sailing ships & tall ships, childrens kits, ship in a bottle, model yachts, passenger boats & liners, fishing boats, battleship models, radio control model boats, tug boat models, viking ships, single planked, model ship kit & model boat brands, amati models, corel models, disar models, dusek models, mamoli models, manuta models, modellers shipyard, nordic class boats, occre models, vanguard models, victory models, shop by model skill level, intermediate, experienced, filter products, skill level.

Showing 1–100 of 330 results

Essex Whaling Ship

ALBATROS – Schooner

HANNAH – US Schooner 1775

ISABELLA – Paddle Steamer 1912

Viking Ship Drakkar

BUCCANEER – PIRATE SHIP

Port Jackson Schooner 1803 – Starters Pack

Bluenose 1 – Fishing Schooner 1921

Chinese Pirate Junk – Qing Dynasty

Colonial Brig Perseverance 1807 – Starters Pack

DECK CANNON – HMS SIRIUS 1786

Mary Byrne Admiralty 1826 Model

POLARIS – Starters Pack

Adventure Pirate Ship 1760

HMA Submarine AE1 /AE2

Colonial schooner port jackson 1803.

POLARIS – Polar Star

HMS Sirius 1786 Cross Section

HMS Bounty Launch

HM CUTTER MERMAID 1817

ADVENTURE – Pirate Ship 1760 – Starters Pack

HMS Revenge

PALAMOS – Fishing Boat

Santa Maria Carrack 1492

DUYFKEN 1606

Palamos Starter Pack

RMS Titanic

MISSISSIPPI – Paddle Steamer

Pinta Caravel of Columbus 1492

Nina Caravel of Columbus 1492

Greek Bireme – Ancient Warship 480BC

BLUENOSE 1 – Fishing Schooner 1921 – Starters Pack

HMS SUPPLY – First Fleet 1788

ULISES – Steam Tug

Golden Hind

DUTCH GOLDEN YACHT 1660

HMS VICTORY – Mid Ship Cross Section

Robert E. Lee River Steamboat 1870

RANGER – American Cutter 1823

SANTISIMA TRINIDAD – Cross Section

COLONIAL SLOOP NORFOLK 1798

THERMOPYLAE – Tea Clipper 1868

GOLDEN STAR – English Brig

Amalfi Fishing Boat

Hunter Q-Ship – British Navy

Endurance & James Caird Model Ship Combo

LADY NELSON – 18th Century Cutter – Starters Pack

Matthew Turner – Starters Pack

HMS Fly – Upgrade Set

AURORA – Spanish Brig

COLONIAL BRIG PERSEVERANCE 1807

HMS FLY – Swan Class 1776

CAESAR – Roman Bireme 30BC

BLACK FALCON – 18th Century Brig

SLOUP – Brittany Oyster Boat

FLATTIE – Chesapeake Bay Fishing Boat

Mayflower – English Galleon 1620

Matthew Turner Brigantine

HM Cutter Mermaid 1817 – Starters Pack

LONGBOAT – HMS Sirius 1786

HMS VICTORY – Bow Section Deluxe

HMS RACEHORSE – Bomb Vessel

HMS GREYHOUND – 20 Gun Frigate 1720

Yacht America (Kids Kit by Corel)

Egyptian Ship – Sahure Dynasty

BOSPHORUS CUTTER

USS CONSTITUTION – United States Frigate 1797

BLUE SHADOW – United States Navy Brig 1778

Yacht America – Schooner 1851

HMS VICTORY – Nelson’s Flagship 1805

Bohuslan Passenger Ship

Greek Gallion – Privateer 1821

GORCH FOCK – German Sail Training Ship

LADY NELSON – 18th Century Cutter

HMS PRESIDENT – Light Frigate 1700

LYNX – Baltimore Schooner 1812

ARMED PINNACE – Lancia Amarta 1800

USS CONSTITUTION – Cross Section 1797

RATTLESNAKE – 20 guns Privateer Ship

HMS BOUNTY – 18th Century British Frigate

GREEK BIREME – 6th century B.C.

VIRGIN OF THE SEA – Fishing Boat

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA GALLEON – 16th Century

SCOTLAND – Baltic Ketch Yacht 1775

LLAUT – Spanish Fishing Boat

HM ENDEAVOUR – Bark 1768

HMS Bounty (Kids Kit by Corel)

HMS Victory

Swedish Gunboat 1775

RMS Titanic – Olympic Class 1912

HMS Terror & HMS Erebus Combo

Viking Ship (Junior)

Colonial Sloop Norfolk 1798 – Starters Pack

Beginner Wooden Ship Model Kit Starters Packs

Our beginner wooden model ship Starter Packs are aimed at introducing those wishing to step into the wonderful world of wooden model ship building as easy and straight forward as possible. 

Amati has been manufacturing ship model kits since the 1920s. They blend the principle of old world craftsmanship and modern design techniques. Amati ship model kits are faithful interpretations of the original vessel. All materials are of the finest available and plans and instructions are always excellent and easily followed. Amati has integrated computer design and the latest materials to produce high quality ship model kits.

Corel Model Ships

Corel have been manufacturing wooden model ship kits since 1971. Their historic ships are historically accurate and all ship model kits contain the highest quality parts, cast metal fittings and photo-etched brass parts, and the best available timbers. Wherever possible all parts are pre-cut and ready for assembly.

Disar Model create wooden ship model kits that reflect the rich maritime history of Spain. Disar Model has a team of model building professionals with over 20 years’ of experience in model ship design and building. Disar models are known for bringing to the market new and unique models which are faithful replicas of the original ship, based on available plans and documentation.

Dusek ship model kits come complete with excellent English instructions and highly detailed drawings. Laser cut plywood, timber and all parts are fittings are of the highest quality. Dusek ship model kits are well presented and historically accurate.

Mamoli Model Ship Kits & Mamoli Model Boat Kits are concerned with historical accuracy and fidelity of scale. Mamoli wooden model ship kits offer a large variety of subject matter to please almost everyone. The materials used in their wooden model ship kits are always first class and the plans are highly detailed.

Mantua Models

Mantua has built its reputation on large, elaborately detailed ship model kits. Their ship model kits use photo-etched brass, cast metal fittings, cast metal and machined turned brass fittings. The detail on Manuta boat model is exceptional.

Modellers Shipyard has been manufacturing ship model kits since 1986. They are the only manufacturer of wooden ship models in Australia. These historically accurate ship kits are faithful interpretations of the original vessels. Each model kit comes with highly detailed English building instructions with color photos which will assist you through the whole building process. 

Nordic Class Boats is a Swedish manufacturer of unique wooden model ship and boat kits based on existing ships from Scandinavian countries. Their kits have laser-cut wooden parts and quality parts and fittings.

Occre Model Ships

Occre ship model kits use high quality materials, made with precision and a great degree of detail. To ensure easy, enjoyable ship model kit assembly, all our ship model kits are accompanied by detailed instructions, subdivided into assembly stages with full colour photographs. All ship model kits include wooden parts and double planking to make the perfect hull.

Ship in a Bottle Model Kits

These wonderful ship in a bottle model kits contains everything you need to build the ship in a bottle you have always dreamed of. Pre-cut wooden parts, detailed fittings and a beautiful glass bottle are included in each ship in a bottle model kit.

Turk Models

Turk Models produces extremely well designed and detailed wooden ship model kits. All ship model kits have laser cut plywood, timber planking and highly detailed parts and fittings. The building instructions are in English and are well presented with detailed colour photos to assist the building process.

The Vanguard Models range of model ship kits are clearly the highest quality model ship kits currently on the market. They are for the discerning model ship builder wanting to build a quality model that is a “cut above” all the other brands.

Victory Models Ship Model Kits make extensive use of laser cutting for all the wood sheets. The fittings, parts and timbers are only the best available.  Victory Models are at the forefront of innovate ship model kit manufacturing producing some of the highest quality ship model kits available.

We have a large range of Yacht model ship kits complete with English instructions and all fittings, making for great yacht model kits. If you are interested in building a ship model kit yacht make sure to have a look at our great range of kits. We offer model kit yachts to build that have featured at the Olympic games, sailed in Americas Cup and more. All yachts offer an elegant reminder of yesteryear.

Children's Wooden Model Ship Kits

Our Children’s Model Ship Kits come from Amati and Mamoli. They are suitable to be built by a child with the guidance of an adult. Each model kit comes with written instructions and plans that will need to be followed closely.

Related Articles

7 Tips For Choosing A Wooden Model Ship Kit

When choosing a wooden model ship kit there are a number of factors that need to be considered. Your overall decision on these factors will influence your selection of a particular wooden ship model kit to build.

Rigging Tips For Building A Model Ship

Rigging is a significant part of the process of building a model ship. It can be tedious and time-consuming however putting the effort in adds to the beauty of your finished model.

Planking Tips For Building A Model Ship

Most beginners to model Ship Building have some concerns regarding planking, however, provided that some serious thought is given to the subject so that the principles are clearly understood, then it should not prove overly difficult.

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Our Types of Kits

Tippecanoe kits are fun and easy to build. In our world which is becoming increasingly virtual it is a great experience to build something real and tangible. The excitement of getting to sail your own boat when you have finished building is unparalleled! What could be more fun? The Tippecanoe boat you build tomorrow might well be in your family for generations to come. We design our boats to be beautiful, to sail fast, to be easy to build and to last for years and years.

Free-Sailing Sailboat Kits

All of the woodworking is already completed when you receive your free sailing kit. The sails are pre-sewn and the hull is already sanded, ready for varnish. The building instructions are very clear and easy to follow.

Everything you need to build the kit is included except for paint or varnish. The T12 and the T15 include racing stripes that can be applied to the hull for an extra decorativie accent. Assembly time after varnishing is about 25 minutes for the T12 Cruiser, 30 minutes for the T15 Racing Sloop, and 45 minutes for the T18 T-Class. All of the boats are also available finished and ready to sail.

Radio-Controlled (RC) Sailboat Kits

Tippecanoe RC boats are sophisticated and fast – and easy to build! Every kit includes everything you need to build and sail your Tippecanoe radio controlled sailboat except for paint, varnish and AA batteries. All of the radio control gear, including the handheld transmitter as well as the in-boat reciever, is included in the kit. The radio control gear is all full power rc hobby gear. The instructions are written clearly in non-translated English and are based on the assumption that you are an aero-space engineer that needs very little help – no, actually I write all of the instructions with the assumption that you have never done anything even vaguely similar to building a boat before in your life and every detail of every step is explained very carefully. After all, before long, you will have your beautiful boat at the lake and lots of people will be admiring it and asking if it was hard to build. When owners tell others how fun and easy the boat was to build and how clear the instructions are – well, this is why there are so many Tippecanoe boats in the world today.

We currently have over 65,000 Tippecanoe boats sailing in more than 60 countries around the world. We do everything possible to make building your Tippecanoe boat as fun and as rewarding a project as possible. You can call us anytime and talk with Will, the designer of the boat you are building if you have any questions or want to share an update on how your boat is progressing. Spare parts are always available upon request and all of our kits are made right here in the US.

The wooden parts in our RC kits are pre-cut with a precision computer controlled router. The boats are assembled with a West System marine epoxy, the same as is used on full sized boats. All of the epoxy is included in the kits. We include a clear version and a pre-thickened version of the epoxy. The pre-thickened version spreads just like mayonnaise with no sag and no running so it is remarkably easy to use. The epoxy is super strong, so your boat will last for years and sail beautifully even if you only get a small amount of the epoxy in the right places! The differences we see between boats that different owners have built is only how carefully the final finishing is done. All of the boats are beautiful, all of the boats sail beautifully and all of the boats will last for many, many years. Every boat is finished off differently with different colors and different design ideas so every boat becomes a very personal creation with its own special character. Go wild, build a boat! Have fun building and sail a boat that you have built!

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