For many of us, 2020 has been an unprecedented year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As the virus spread and the world started going in to lockdown, we had concerns about the impact on our business. As stricter lockdown measures were introduced across the UK, our staff began to work remotely from home, making operations far more difficult than they had ever been before. As some businesses struggled through the pandemic, we were blessed with a growth in orders, more specifically for our model ship kits. With the addition of Occre to our range early this year and the combined positive effects of Covid-19, we’ve been able to put together a list of the Top 10 best-selling best kits across 2020.
- Size – L: 125 cm x W: 47 cm x H: 90 cm
- Scale – 1 to 70
- Difficulty – Expert Kit
- Hull Type – Plank on Frame
- R/C Compatible – No
The famous 18th Century Spanish ship of the line has proven popular, especially amongst our USA customers. Measuring at a total length of 125 cm for a modest budget, this Occre model kit is a highly detailed replica that will keep the experienced modeller entertained for many hours.
- Size – L: 27.5 cm x W: 4 cm x H: 19 cm
- Scale – 1 to 330
- Difficulty – Beginner Kit
- Hull Type – Pre-built Wooden Hull
- R/C Compatible – No
With lockdown restrictions leaving many seeking new hobbies to keep them occupied, there has been a rise in the number of first time modellers. The Mini Mamoli range all feature a pre-built hull, giving many the opportunity to recreate their favourite vessels without the need to complete complicated planking. This 1 to 330 scale version of ‘Old Ironsides’ has proven a popular pick for beginners. All available with tools as an All-in-One Kit.
- Size – L: 82 cm x W: 30 cm x H: 68 cm
- Scale – 1 to 54
- Difficulty – Expert Kit
- Hull Type – Plank on Frame
- R/C Compatible – No
It’s no surprise that Occre Kits feature frequently on the list of best-selling this year. They have a diverse range of good quality kits at highly competitive prices. This particular model of the HMS Endeavour is one of the finest kits on the market and takes the seventh spot on the list, with most sales coming from the Australian region.
- Size – L: 44 cm
- Scale – 1 to 50
- Difficulty – Intermediate Kit
- Hull Type – Plank on Frame
- R/C Compatible – No
TV series such as ‘The Vikings’ has given rise to a popularity in modellers want to build replicas of these types of ships over the years. Viking Model Kits frequently appear on the best-selling list each year and 2020 is no different. Renowned Italian manufacturer Amati produce this high quality 1 to 50 scale version of a Viking Longboat.
- Size – L: 28 cm x W: 4 cm x H: 35 cm
- Scale – 1 to 177
- Difficulty – Beginner Kit
- Hull Type – Pre-built Wooden Hull
- R/C Compatible – No
Another Mini Mamoli kit takes the sixth spot as more beginners start their modelling journey. This 19th Century British Yacht built for royalty has attracted the attention of eager modellers. It’s shape is typical of many sailing yachts of the same era, however, suggesting another reason for its popularity. This detailed replica is perfect for beginner modellers as young as 14. This model is also available with tools as an All-in-One Kit
- Size – L: 6 cm x W: 36 cm x H: 71 cm
- Scale – 1 to 98
- Difficulty – Beginner Kit
- Hull Type – Plank on Frame
- R/C Compatible – No
With a history as rich as its appearance, it’s no surprise that the HMS Victory appears at least somewhere on this list of top 10. The complexity of the rigging and shape of the hull means the HMS Victory is normally a model for the more experienced however this beautiful cross section from Corel is an easier route to rebuilding Admiral Nelson’s famous flagship. If you’re a beginner looking to display a replica of the full ship, check out this HMS Victory from Mini Mamoli.
- Size – L: 17 inches x W: 4 inches x H: 10 inches
- Scale – 1 to 24
- Difficulty – Beginner Kit
- Hull Type – Plank on Frame
- R/C Compatible – No
The remaining four spots on the top 10 are all taken by Occre. The Spanish manufacturer has made waves since we first added them to our website in April this year. Their kits are high quality at an affordable price and they have a good range to choose from. The Bounty Launch has been particularly popular due to its history and the role it played in Captain William Bligh’s famous mutiny. The model is also suitable for beginners.
- Size – L: 22 inches x W: 9 inches x H: 18 inches
- Scale – 1 to 100
- Difficulty – Intermediate Kit
- Hull Type – Plank on Frame
- R/C Compatible – No
The story of piracy has traditionally captured the intrigue of boat enthusiasts and the wider public as well. This is the reason for the success of movie franchises such as Pirates of the Caribbean. The Buccaneer model is a replica of the typical privateer ships of this period, especially in the Caribbean. It’s no wonder then that when combined with the affordable quality of Occre, this particular model has taken the third spot in 2020.
- Size – L: 72 cm x W: 23 cm x H: 48 cm
- Scale – 1 to 60
- Difficulty – Intermediate Kit
- Hull Type – Plank on Frame
- R/C Compatible – No
Speaking of ships with a rich history, the HMS Beagle is perhaps one of the most famous vessels known across the world. Notable for ferrying naturalist Charles Darwin across the globe, the HMS Beagle has always been popular amongst modellers and again when combined with the quality of Occre has made for a best seller.
- Size – L: 57 cm x W: 21 cm x H: 41 cm
- Scale – 1 to 100
- Difficulty – Advanced Beginner Kit
- Hull Type – Plank on Frame
- R/C Compatible – No
With a staggering number of units sold, this Albatros model is the biggest selling of 2020, having only been on the website for a period of just 6 months out of the year. This kit is typical of a 19th Century American schooner, which explains why it has been especially popular in the US market. Manufactured again by Occre and boasting a less than 3 figure price has landed it in the top spot this year.
Looking forward
With 2020 drawing to an end and Christmas fast approaching, it will be interesting to see if there are any changes in the list of best-selling model ship kits. One thing we are certain is that Occre has been a big hit this year and we don’t expect that to change on the run up to 2021. We hope that you have found this blog useful if you are stuck about what model to buy next and we wish you all the health and happiness for the rest of 2020.
