Half Ship & Boat Models

The half hull comes from shipbuilders’ practice, where half models were carved to work out and record a hull’s shape before drawings took over. It has been used as a decorative and boardroom piece ever since, and it remains the most space efficient way to display a vessel.

Why choose a half hull

A full model needs depth, a surface to stand on and protection from knocks. A half hull hangs flat, takes almost no room, collects far less dust than a rigged model and cannot be swept off a shelf. That makes it the sensible choice for hallways, stairwells, above a desk or fireplace, and in clubrooms and offices where a cased model would dominate.

Finishes

• Varnished timber showing the planking and natural grain
• Painted in the vessel’s livery with a contrasting waterline
• Deck and superstructure detail included, or omitted for a cleaner shape
• Hardwood backboard, with an engraved plate where the model carries one

Measuring for the space

Plan around the overall board dimensions rather than the hull length, since the board is what occupies the wall. Check the fixing arrangement given on the listing before ordering.

Common questions

Can I have my own boat as a half hull?

Yes, taken from her lines plan or from photographs, as a custom commission. Sets of three or four to a common scale work well on a single wall.

Which side of the vessel is shown?

It varies by model and is stated on the listing. On a custom build you choose.

Are they heavy to hang?

Less than they look. They are timber rather than solid stone or metal, but fix into a stud or use a suitable wall fixing for the larger boards.