The Thermopylae was a clipper ship, built in 1868 by Walter Hood & Co of Aberdeen to the design of Bernard Weymouth of London, for the White Star Line
Thermopylae measured 212'0" x 36'0" x 20'9" and was rigged with royal sails, single topgallant and double top-sails.
Designed for the China tea trade, Thermopylae set speed records on her maiden voyage to Melbourne - 63 days, which is still the fastest trip under sail. In 1872 she raced the clipper Cutty Sark from Shanghai back to London and won by seven days after Cutty Sark lost her rudder. In 1895 she was sold to Portugal and used as a naval training ship. The Portuguese Navy torpedoed her at sea in 1906.
The kit includes laser cut frames for keel & bulkheads,�with exotic wood strip for hull planking. Also included is wooden deck planking, masts and spars, plus lost wax brass castings,�wooden fittings, laser etched detailing, and a silk flag. The instruction booklet is very detailed, taking you through every step of construction.
Scale 1:124, Length: 575mm.
Skill Level 2