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Sovereign of the Seas 1:78 Mantua research before starting. Plans, bulkheads, and hull line references

Joined
Apr 7, 2026
Messages
79
Points
58

Location
Miami Florida, USA
To all members currently building the *SotS* or those who have already completed this magnificent ship: I have been compiling and analyzing many of the threads created on this great forum for some time now. I would like to ask a question that has already sparked quite a bit of discussion. To start, my kit is from Mantua Sergal, and I am thoroughly convinced that one cannot simply tackle this kit without help from the best. I plan to meet with a naval engineer, a former classmate of my father’s (since, unfortunately, I can no longer rely on my dad for help) to have him explain everything regarding the interpretation of isometric plates, sections, elevations, and body lines. Although I am an architect and comfortable with 3D modeling, I never studied hull lines in depth.
Therefore, my question to everyone is:
Which plates should I refer to when modifying the Mantua kit's bulkheads, keeping in mind that I want to make every deck visible? Also I am aware that I have to do some scratch-building using what the kit offers.To begin with, and I know this book draws a lot of criticism, I was given John McKay’s book. I know there is another one by Hendrik Busmann in German that is better regarded, but it is entirely in German; while studying it wouldn't be a problem for me since I speak German, but it is hard to find and exorbitantly priced. For now, the only place I’ve seen a comparison of these lines, specifically from the years 1600 and 1635 is in McKay’s book. I am addressing this to anyone who can share their experiences; I know there are excellent experts here, and I’ve already been in touch with some of them. This kit is not only expensive, but it would be a shame to build it exactly as it comes out of the box, knowing we can add many new details that will leave me feeling satisfied 10 or 15 years from now when I finally finish it (hahaha ROTF ROTF ROTF just kidding). I am immensely grateful to you all in advance for your comments.
Remember, every bit counts, and my hard drive has plenty of terabytes ready to store all the necessary advice and notes.
Sending a big hug to everyone, along with a bit of warmth and sunshine we have plenty of it here in Miami, Florida.
Kind Regards
Jack
 
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