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Hello from Boston, MA and FIRST BUILD!

P

Paul Marotta

Joined
May 10, 2026
Messages
6
Points
8

Joined this fabulous site this past weekend and am delighted to be here. I've learned so much already from you all and am ecstatic to say I'm about to start my first build. I'm approaching 70, retired and always looking for new projects to keep the brain portion of my body alert and activated. I'm 5 years deep into a massive N Scale model train layout, all DCC and I've built now probably 2 dozen wood high-end craft structures.

We also just got back from 5 weeks on the road in our VW ID Buzz and visited numerous museums including on the Great Lakes where I was just in awe over the model build displays...remarkable work.

So, to that end I've ordered the Endurance from OcCre for my first build. I've cycled through their build videos a few times now and am not seeing anything so overwhelming it would make me throw my hands up the air. I'm comfortable with wood builds, I have an extensive set of mini tools and am comfortable with airbrushing as well. And there is a wealth of info here from you folks showing your Endurance builds along with detailing and issues.

The Endurance and the Shackleton story are dear to me as I was in communications for non profits for the longest time, including at PBS where I was the lead PR for the Shackleton IMAX project and even got to go on the filming expedition to South Georgia Island. Caroline Alexander's autographed book is on my desk as I embark on this project, and I've even made my first entry into my log book dated today when I ordered the kit and supplies.

Looking forward to embarking on this journey, wish me luck, and I enjoy watching everyone's progress here as well!

Best



Paul
 
Welcome to the SoS forums !
The Endurance is a bit piece to bite off as a first model !
However, we are also here to help answer your questions when you have them (and I'm sure you'll have them :) )
 
Welcome from South Carolina. I'm on my first build, the HMS Bounty. I was told it was too complicated for a first build, but it has forced me to do a lot of research and I've learned much.
 
Welcome from London. I'm also in communications and travelled to the Falklands and South Georgia about 15 years ago with work - a fascinating trip and really brings home the challenges faced by Shackleton and his crew. The James Caird is just down the road from me at Dulwich College and I must go and view it at some point. Good luck with the build.
 
Welcome to SoS! I went to law school in Boston and I'm coming up in July for Sail250 to see my home tall ship, the Kalmar Nyckel. I've seen some excellent Endurance and James Caird dioramas. Fascinating story.
 
Paul Marotta said:
Joined this fabulous site this past weekend and am delighted to be here. I've learned so much already from you all and am ecstatic to say I'm about to start my first build. I'm approaching 70, retired and always looking for new projects to keep the brain portion of my body alert and activated. I'm 5 years deep into a massive N Scale model train layout, all DCC and I've built now probably 2 dozen wood high-end craft structures.

We also just got back from 5 weeks on the road in our VW ID Buzz and visited numerous museums including on the Great Lakes where I was just in awe over the model build displays...remarkable work.

So, to that end I've ordered the Endurance from OcCre for my first build. I've cycled through their build videos a few times now and am not seeing anything so overwhelming it would make me throw my hands up the air. I'm comfortable with wood builds, I have an extensive set of mini tools and am comfortable with airbrushing as well. And there is a wealth of info here from you folks showing your Endurance builds along with detailing and issues.

The Endurance and the Shackleton story are dear to me as I was in communications for non profits for the longest time, including at PBS where I was the lead PR for the Shackleton IMAX project and even got to go on the filming expedition to South Georgia Island. Caroline Alexander's autographed book is on my desk as I embark on this project, and I've even made my first entry into my log book dated today when I ordered the kit and supplies.

Looking forward to embarking on this journey, wish me luck, and I enjoy watching everyone's progress here as well!

Best



Paul
Click to expand...
Welcome!

Out in Central Mass, always open to answering a question.

-Rich
 
Welcome from North Chelmsford. Like you I'm in my 70's (75 in July) and been building these kits since I retired 5 years ago. A lot of friendly and very helpful people on the site.
 
Welcome from North Andover. Like you I'm in my 70's although not for much longer (78 soon) and somewhat of a beginner. I have learned a lot from the people on the site.
 
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