Monterey Mediterranean Edition 1:20

Billing Boats Monterey Mediterranean Edition 1:20 – Wooden model kit of a classic fishing boat

The Billing Boats Monterey Mediterranean Edition 1:20 scale wooden model kit depicts a traditional fishing boat with Californian history and Mediterranean roots. The Monterey-type boat originated on the American west coast, but is closely linked to Italian and Sicilian boatbuilders who brought their experience from the Mediterranean region to California.

Although the boat type became known as the Monterey, its origins lie in San Francisco Bay. There, Italian and Sicilian immigrant craftsmen built sturdy fishing boats modelled on the Mediterranean felucca. These small, seaworthy working boats were originally influenced by the lateen sail tradition and were adapted in California to the conditions of the Pacific coast.

With the fitting of petrol engines, these light sailing boats evolved into the well-known Monterey boats. They combined Mediterranean lines with American practicality: a double-pointed hull, a broad shape, a distinctive bow and sufficient stability for the harsh daily realities of coastal fishing. Many of these boats were not built to fixed plans, but rather based on experience, a good eye and traditional craftsmanship. As a result, they were similar in their basic form, yet remained individual in their details.

Monterey boats were primarily used in day-to-day fishing operations on the west coast. They stood for hard work, simple maintenance and reliable seaworthiness. In Monterey and San Francisco, such boats shaped the character of the harbours, fish markets and Italian-influenced fishing communities for decades. Numerous boats of this type were built between around 1910 and 1950. Some originals remained in service for a long time and are now regarded as iconic examples of Californian coastal fishing.

The Mediterranean Edition from Billing Boats draws on this connection between California and the Mediterranean in its design. The colour scheme is more closely modelled on Mediterranean fishing boats, and special fittings have been added. The result is a model with a lively, colourful appearance and a wealth of detail, which stands out clearly from simpler working boat models.

The kit is aimed at model-makers who wish to build a classic wooden model of a manageable size but with a high level of visible detail. The wooden hull, superstructure and maritime detailing combine to create a decorative display model with plenty of character. Experienced model-makers may also prepare the model for an RC conversion at their own discretion; however, the necessary propulsion and control components are not included in the kit.

Product features

• Mediterranean Edition with additional fittings
• Hull structure with frames and planking
• Includes additional details such as lobster pots and small lobsters
• RC conversion possible for experienced model-makers at their own discretion

Technical Specifications

Scale: 1:20

Length: approx. 490 mm

Width: approx. 130 mm

Height: approx. 250 mm