Description

HMS Surprise – 28 Gun Frigate 1794

An exact scale model of the famous 28-gun captured French frigate made legendary through the Patrick O’Brian Aubrey–Maturin novels.

Developed first and foremost to represent the fictional HMS Surprise from the novels, this highly detailed kit has been designed for serious ship modellers seeking accuracy, scale fidelity and an immersive build experience.

Kit Features

Laser cut materials in Pear wood, Lime, MDF and acetate
Double planked hull in lime wood and Pear wood
Four scale ship’s boats included with 3D printed hulls
Multiple photo-etched brass sheets with PE copper plates included as standard
Fittings in wood, brass and 3D printed resin
Full colour A4 instruction manual featuring nearly 1000 photographs and line drawings
27 A1 sized plan sheets
Acetate display stand with engraved nameplate
Full rigging package including dowel, blocks, deadeyes and rigging thread
Detailed captain’s cabin interior
Aubrey and Maturin figures included
Standard configuration includes 24 x 9-pounder long guns
Optional original armament configuration with 32-pounder carronades
Waterslide decal sheets including nameplates, depth markings and cannon carriage names
Two figureheads included for fictional and historical versions
Two stern configurations with photo-etched stern windows to represent both real and fictional variants

Skill Level – Advanced

HMS Surprise has been developed for experienced ship modellers and is designed to deliver the highest level of accuracy and detail possible within a commercial kit.

This is not recommended as a first ship model. The build is intended for modellers who have already completed multiple ship or boat projects and are confident with advanced construction and rigging techniques.

Every stage of the kit has been designed to be as logical, rewarding and immersive as possible, while still demanding patience, precision and a strong eye for detail.