Looking for gifts for sailors that will be enjoyed long after Christmas Day? A model ship is a present with real staying power, whether the person you’re buying for has spent years at sea or simply loves boats from the shore. Our sailing presents come in two kinds: wooden model ship kits for anyone who enjoys a hands-on project, and ready-made models that arrive finished and ready to display. Below you’ll find ideas for every budget, from beginner kits to collector’s pieces, plus our Christmas delivery dates so you can order in good time.
Shop Gifts for Sailors by Budget
Whatever you’d like to spend, there’s a model to suit.
Under £100
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Bounty Launch Model Boat Kit – Occre
£78 incl. VAT -
Calelia Model Boat Kit – Occre
£62 incl. VAT -
Flattie Fishing Boat Model Kit – Corel
£97 incl. VAT£78 incl. VAT
£100 to £250
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Albatross Model Boat Kit – Occre
£136 incl. VAT -
Endeavour America’s Cup Model Boat Kit – Occre
£145 incl. VAT -
Essex Model Boat Kit – Occre
£209 incl. VAT
£250 to £500
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Arno X1 Hydroplane Kit Model Boat Kit – Amati
£421 incl. VAT£337 incl. VAT -
La Couronne 1 Model Boat Kit – Mantua Models
£449 incl. VAT£359 incl. VAT -
Mercury Brig Model Boat Kit – Victory Models
£443 incl. VAT£354 incl. VAT
Over £500
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Aircraft Carrier USS America CV-66 Display Ship Model – GN
£829 incl. VAT£589 incl. VAT -
Amerigo Vespucci Model Boat Kit – Panart
£1,012 incl. VAT£809 incl. VAT -
Amerigo Vespucci Painted Medium Display Ship Model – OMH
£1,391 incl. VAT
Gifts for Model Builders
A model ship kit is one of the most rewarding gifts for sailors who like working with their hands. Each kit includes pre-cut wooden parts, fittings, plans and step-by-step instructions. Paints, glue and tools are often sold separately, so check the product page before you order.
If they’re new to the hobby, start with our beginner model ship kits. These have fewer parts and simpler hulls, and most take around 10 – 30 hours to complete. Intermediate kits add planking and more detailed rigging over a longer build of 40 – 120 hours, ideal for someone who has built a model before. A kit makes a thoughtful birthday or retirement gift, with a project to enjoy through the winter. Browse all our model ship kits by difficulty level.
Gifts for Collectors
For someone who would rather admire a ship than build one, our ready-made model ships arrive fully built and finished, ready for a shelf, desk or mantelpiece. They make striking nautical gifts for any collector, with a wide choice of famous vessels.
Our Titanic models are a natural choice for anyone fascinated by maritime history, alongside historic warships, tall ships and classic ocean liners. For a touch of adventure, our pirate ship models bring a bold, characterful piece to any room. Each product page lists the model’s length, scale and what comes with it, so you can choose the right size for the space. Unlike many nautical gifts, a well-made model stays on display for years.
Gifts for Boat Owners
Shopping for someone with a yacht, sailing boat or motor cruiser? A model of a similar vessel is one of the more personal gifts for boat owners, and it looks just as good in a home office as on board. Browse our Classic Boats and Yachts for ideas.
For something truly one of a kind, we also build bespoke models of a client’s own vessel, from yachts to superyachts. It’s one of the best gifts for yachties marking a new boat, a retirement or a milestone birthday. Allow extra time, as bespoke models take around 5 – 6 months to make.
Christmas Delivery
To make sure your gifts for sailors arrive before Christmas, please order by the dates below. Delivery times are counted from dispatch.
| Service | Order by | Delivery time |
|---|---|---|
| UK standard | 18th December | 2 working days |
| UK express | 21st December | 2 working days |
Orders placed after these dates will be dispatched as quickly as possible, but we can’t guarantee delivery before Christmas.
Gift FAQs
What are good gifts for sailors who have everything?
A model of a ship they love is hard to beat. Experienced sailors usually own all the practical kit, so a ready-made model of a famous vessel, or a kit to build over winter, gives them something new. If you’re short of present ideas for sailors, the same thinking works for gifts for a boater who seems to have everything on board.
Is a model ship kit a good gift for a beginner?
Yes, as long as you choose the right level. Our beginner kits have fewer parts, clear instructions and simpler construction, so they’re a gentle introduction to the hobby. Check whether the kit includes paints, glue and tools; if not, add a starter tool set to make the present complete.
What is the last order date for Christmas delivery?
For UK standard delivery, please order by the 18th of December. For express delivery, the last order date is 21st of December. Full details are in the Christmas Delivery section above.
Do ready-made models arrive ready to display?
Yes. Ready-made models arrive fully built and finished, so they can go straight onto a shelf or desk. All come with a display stand or base. Larger models are carefully packed, so unpack them slowly and keep the rigging clear of the packaging.
