One of our more popular handcrafted model ships and boats is the USCG BARQUE EAGLE. The following is a short history of this magnificent vessel. The Eagle is a three-masted sailing barque with 21,350 square feet of sail. It is home ported at the CG Academy, New London, Connecticut. It is the only active commissioned sailing vessel in the U.S. maritime services. She is one of five such training barques in world.

Send novice crew members to find Charlie Nobel. Talk like an "Old Salt" and understand what you are talking about. Know what "abaft the beam" or what "2 points off the Port Bow" means. Be the person who can explain what it was like to be a sailor of yore. Forthcoming is the beginning of a list of terms. Some are outdated and some are still in use today.

When it comes to collecting handcrafted model ships and boats we appreciate the detail, we appreciate the amazing color, design, and beauty of the ship. But most importantly, we appreciate the history of the vessel, not just who served on it, but the historical significance the vessel had during its period in time. Few ships can boast more of a history than the Santa Maria and that is why it is a favorite among handcrafted model boats and ships collectors. The fact is that this is an amazing ship, not only because of the history it carries, but because of the design, the beauty and craftsmanship of it. For a collector there are few ships more valuable to own than the Santa Maria but unfortunately the stores know that as well.

While you may not be able to sail across the world on your handcrafted model ships and boats, they are not in any way shape or form miniature. These are true replicas with many of them going up to thirty and even fifty inches in size. These models are truly amazing because of the detail and craftsmanship put into each one of them. Many stores will carry the cheap replicas which may look nice from afar but they are very small and poorly constructed, most of which are built on assembly lines.