Ever since we learned to transport ourselves with more than just our feet, humans have felt a curious sense of connection with our vehicles. Some of the earliest models ever found are carefully crafted replicas of carts, chariots, and boats. This tradition continues today, with many people involved in the intricate construction of things like model railways, toy cars and, of course, cruise ships. These little models are often incredible for their attention to detail, and an absolute marvel to behold.
Deep Connection
Sailors have always felt a certain connection to the vessels upon which they sail. They are, after all, much more than merely a means of transport – they are home, and serve as protection against the vagaries of the sea. It is not at all uncommon for retired naval officers to seek out or even construct for themselves models of the ships upon which they served. These models are then lovingly placed in a prominent position within the family home – a reminder of an old friend. There is certainly something about ships which attracts a level of respect and almost-human recognition even from the non-maritime community. Planes – which arguably fulfil many of the same roles as ships – are almost never treated with the kind of awe and humanity given to ships. The Queen of England does not name and launch planes, but she is glad to perform this service for cruise ships. Indeed, while planes are sometimes named and launched, it’s not the same kind of serious business which it is with ships. To name a ship is to acknowledge its ‘personality’, to give it a tangible presence as more than just a tool with which to travel the seas. It is perhaps for these reasons that models of cruise ships are becoming ever more astonishingly intricate.
Bamboo Models
Among the multitude of people constructing models of the world’s cruise liners is Mr Humaini of Bali. His business, ‘Sakera Bambu’, crafts incredible models of cruise ships, largely from bamboo. The medium would not appear to lend itself to modelling as well as some others would, yet Mr Humaini’s models are utterly incredible in their breadth, scope, and attention to detail. The maritime history of all the vessels he crafts is researched in depth, and the models are as complete as they could possibly be in such a scaled-down format. Not only cruise ships are created – famous historical vessels such as the French Soleil Royal are also built in gleaming bamboo, as are aircraft carriers, steamboats, and many more. However, cruise ships like Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas certainly feature prominently. If you are looking for a memento of your ships which has a certain je ne sais quoi about it, then look no further. The bamboo medium ensures that these models have a classy and timeless feel which many made in metal and painted over lack. They would compliment any room in the house.
Plenty Of Options
Of course, the world is not short of models of cruise ships. Some are created through hull-carving, while some are built plank-on-frame. Some are painstakingly painted, while others use decals for things like company logos. Some are high quality, others are less so (but also less expensive!). There are companies out there which sell kits, allowing those who wish to have a certain sense of connection to their model to build it more or less themselves. Others are sold whole and entire. Many people, of course, prefer to build their own model from scratch. This is often a labour of love which can take years to complete. It requires not only a reasonable knowledge of modelling, but an exhaustive knowledge of the chosen boat’s design – and infinite amounts of patience! It is not uncommon for small-scale disasters to befall a model while the modeller is working on some of the fiddlier fittings. This can be intensely frustrating – but at the same time wonderfully rewarding when one gets it right! Creating your own model provides not only a lasting memento of your ships, but gives you a sense of pride in your own skills (and a way in which to fill idle hours). However, if you lack either patience or the manual dexterity required to spend hours poring over miniscule details, then this is probably not the route for you to take. Plenty of modellers will, however, take commissions if you urgently desire your chosen model to have certain specifications. All in all, if you want a modelled memento of your ship/s, then there are plenty of options available to you!
Article from Gemma Bayton
