I came across this excellent review on YouTube by "Modelkit Stuff" of Vanguard Models new kit of Plymouth ketch rigged trawler Ericina in 1:64 scale. This kit is aimed straight at beginners, and has incredibly photo laden step by step instructions, and full plans. The instructions contain no assumptions that the builder knows any of the typical model building skill such as planking and rigging, and every feature is described in detail. The framework of the ship is made of MDF, the deck is laser etched (no planking required), and each part is well marked. The cutting of the first layer planking strips is excellent and cleanly sawn and the final planking appears to be quality walnut hardwood. Mast dowels are solid walnut. The set of brass parts is relief etched, so there are textures and details on the surface of some of the brass parts, not simply cut out around the profiles. Exterior parts are all hardwood, laser etched to perfection. Several of the parts have laser etched guidelines to help align parts when attaching them. The quality of the blocks is above average, with clearly drilled holes, but only one hole per block for single blocks, and two for double blocks. The block material is good, and appears to be walnut. The overall shape of each block is still not round like Model Expo "beautiful blocks", but rectangular with rounded edges. The only weak spot is the quality of the sails, where the rough, loosely edge sewn sails are typical of those found in other kits. The rope appears to be standard Amati thread, but you get three sizes in two colors. Making your own sails is still the most accurate way to go, or Vanguard models offers an upgraded set of pre-made sails for this model, sold separately. If you are a beginner and looking to build something a bit larger and more complex than a simple dory, made with quality materials, this looks to be an excellent choice. This is a Grade A kit.
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