SeaWatch Books

As you know, Ships in Scale magazine is returning in January/February 2026 — and I’m thrilled to let you know that subscriptions are now open, with a special Pre-Launch Discount! Here’s a quick refresher on what’s ahead: We’ll publish six issues per year, filled with: Tool and technique tutorials Tips & tricks Product and kit reviews Scratch-building techniques Step-by-step build logs (wood and plastic kits) Historical ship articles Book reviews Modeler profiles New kit announcements And more! Subscription options: Print & Digital — Get the print edition plus full digital access so you can enjoy Ships in Scale anywhere. Digital Only — Perfect if you prefer to read on your devices or want a flexible, cost-effective option wherever you live. Pricing: Digital Only: $39.95/year (worldwide) Print & Digital: $44.95 (US), $54.95 (Canada), $64.95 (International) Pre-Launch Discount: Subscribe before the end of this year and get 10% off your first year. [Subscribe Now] I can’t thank you enough for your enthusiasm and support as we get closer to launch. Your early subscription helps us build momentum and ensures Ships in Scale returns stronger than ever. If you have any questions or suggestions, I’d love to hear from you. Fair winds and happy modeling, Capt. Mike Publisher, Ships in Scale & SeaWatch Books

When you buy the back issue collection, there is an article index and search.

I'm excited to share some news that I think many in the ship modeling community will appreciate—Ships in Scale magazine is coming back! SeaWatch Books has worked out an agreement with the Nautical Research Guild (NRG), who owned the Ships in Scale brand after the magazine’s original run. We're now relaunching Ships in Scale with the goal of honoring its rich tradition while expanding its reach for today's modelers. We'll be featuring a wide range of articles for all skill levels, detailed build logs, kit reviews, and broader maritime topics, supported by a new digital platform as well. If you'd like to learn more about the plans for the relaunch, I’ve written a short article that you can read here: Read More → We’re looking forward to building something that supports and celebrates the incredible craftsmanship, creativity, and passion in the ship modeling hobby. Thanks for taking a look! — Mike Ellison Publisher, Ships in Scale SeaWatch Books

For more than a century, the Alice S. Wentworth plied the waters of New England, her sails filled with the relentless drive of those who commanded her. From her origins as the Lizzie A. Tolles in 1863 to her transformation under Captain Zebulon Tilton—one of the last great coasting captains—this legendary schooner became a living symbol of America’s maritime heritage. In The Coasting Schooner Alice S. Wentworth, master ship modeler Thomas J. Lauria weaves together a captivating tale of the vessel’s storied past, the extraordinary people who shaped her fate, and the meticulous process of recreating her in scale model form. From her early days as a hardworking freight carrier to her final years as a beloved but aging relic, Alice’s story is a testament to the resilience of both ships and sailors. With meticulous research, stunning details, and a deep reverence for maritime history, Lauria brings to life the schooner’s journey, the men who sailed her, and the rich tradition of coastal trade. This book is more than just a historical account—it’s a love letter to a vanished era, a masterclass in model shipbuilding, and an invitation to experience the romance of the sea through the eyes of those who lived it. Perfect for model builders, maritime enthusiasts, and anyone drawn to the untold stories of America’s seafaring past, The Coasting Schooner Alice S. Wentworth is an unforgettable voyage into history. Reserve your copy here: https://seawatchbooks.com/products/the-coasting-schooner-alice-s-wentworh-by-thomas-j-lauria

Chris - thank you for the great review! Glad you liked it. Here's the link to the book on our store: https://seawatchbooks.com/products/dutch-17th-century-ship-models-in-paper Let me know if you have any questions! Mike

Hi! Happy New Year! I'm currently planning out the calendar, but it will likely be later in the year. If you like, you can buy e-book versions now and when we do print the physical book, you'll automatically get one (you'd just need to pay shipping at that time). You can buy the e-books here: https://issuu.com/seawatchbooks

Hi All - Fubbs plans shipped today as did Ab Hoving's latest book: Dutch 17th Century Ship Models in Paper! Thanks for you patience! Mike

Hi Everyone - About the plans - they came in last week but as we were about to ship them we saw there was a snafu from the printer which required us to ship plans back to get recut. I should have an updated date very soon, but I'm hoping we can ship them later next week. Sorry about that (and the lack of transparency - a communication fault on my end). Mike

Hi All - Sorry about this. I found out late last week there was a snafu with the system where a lot of orders didn't get shipped. It's been fixed and the balance of the unshipped orders should have gone out today/tomorrow (11/19). Thanks for your patience and my apologies! Mike

Good question but above my pay grade. Maybe appeal to @Chuck or @chris watton and see if they'd be interested in creating a kit?

Update: there WILL be frame drawings after all!

Actually, digital plans (2 sheets) will be included. Physical plans will be available for purchase separately. Note that this is an advanced project and the individual frame drawings are not included, but can be built using the information provided in the book.

No. It's a Navy Board model.

We're thrilled to announce we are now taking pre-orders for "The Stuart Royal Yacht Fubbs of 1682 - Research and Building a 1:48 Scale Model" by David Antscherl and Effie Moneypenny. This meticulously researched book offers an unprecedented look at reconstructing Charles II's elegant yacht as a 1:48 scale model. Packed with hundreds of photos, step-by-step building details, and insights into 17th century shipbuilding techniques, it's an invaluable resource for modelers of all levels. As a special bonus, all pre-orders will receive a 10% discount! Pre-order now through our online store and save on what promises to be an invaluable addition to your modeling library.

I definitely want to reprint Naiad but that’s further out. I would very much be open to a similar ebook arrangement. Let me look into it!