Welcome. After many years of pondering the idea of making a radio controlled model ship, I finally decided in October of 2010 to pull the trigger. The historical ship I chose was the HMS Beagle, the survey ship that made three extensive ocean voyages, the most famous being the second voyage with Charles Darwin onboard. The Beagle was one of over a hundred "Cherokee class" brigs commissioned by the Royal Navy.

The goal was to make a fun, working model of the Beagle, with radio controls for her rudder, sails and some cool extras, and sail her like a proper square rig sailing ship. After eight months of research and building, and more than a few setbacks, my Beagle finally made her maiden voyage on July 2, 2011. Many thanks to all of you who have helped out, both on the web and in my hometown of Indianapolis.

The Beagle is currently "in ordinary" while I plan out my next project.

Here are some larger pics of her at sea: Pic 1 - Pic 2

So much for the intro... on with the build!

Week 1