That really depends on the ship kit. Each kit has advantages/disadvantages.
I have the OcCre HMS Revenge, and the instructions are excellent, being step-by-step and in color. Those instructions are tailored for beginners. The Revenge is a simpler model to build and rig than most ship models from later centuries. If you need to be shown precisely how and where parts are installed and where lines are tied off, this style of instructions may be preferable.
Mantua tends to use large plans and schematics with minimal step-by-step text, expecting you to know the basics in wooden ship model building. That style allows you to see precise where parts are in an overall picture, including where rigging lines run relative to each other. If you are familiar with devising and organizing the steps in your head for a large amount of features in model building, the schematic/drawings style may be your choice.
It would help the discussion if you asked for a comparison between two specific model kits. The chances are that fellow members have built them and can decribe in detail their experience with them. They may be able to show you pictures of the instructions provided, which would be a great help i choosing.
I have the OcCre HMS Revenge, and the instructions are excellent, being step-by-step and in color. Those instructions are tailored for beginners. The Revenge is a simpler model to build and rig than most ship models from later centuries. If you need to be shown precisely how and where parts are installed and where lines are tied off, this style of instructions may be preferable.
Mantua tends to use large plans and schematics with minimal step-by-step text, expecting you to know the basics in wooden ship model building. That style allows you to see precise where parts are in an overall picture, including where rigging lines run relative to each other. If you are familiar with devising and organizing the steps in your head for a large amount of features in model building, the schematic/drawings style may be your choice.
It would help the discussion if you asked for a comparison between two specific model kits. The chances are that fellow members have built them and can decribe in detail their experience with them. They may be able to show you pictures of the instructions provided, which would be a great help i choosing.