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$120.00
New Bedford Whale Boat | Right out of “Moby Dick”. New Bedford boat builders were responsible for developing a nearly perfect design for a light, seaworthy, capacious boat to be used in the open ocean for the dangerous business of whaling. After the sinking of the whaleship Essex, some of her crew survived for 3 months, traveling several thousand miles, in whaleboats. Melville’s “Moby Dick” provides us with one of the best descriptions of these famous vessels.
The New Bedford whale boat is a vessel that played a significant role in the whaling industry during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Developed in the coastal city of New Bedford, Massachusetts, the whale boat was specifically designed for the dangerous and arduous task of hunting and harpooning whales. These boats were constructed with durability, speed, and maneuverability in mind, making them the ideal vessel for the treacherous waters of the open ocean.
One of the most distinctive features of the New Bedford whale boat is its unique design. These boats were typically around 28 feet in length and were built with a sharp, curved bow and a flat, wide stern. This shape allowed the boat to cut through the water with ease, making it fast and agile. Additionally, the boat’s hull was reinforced with thick planks of wood, making it strong enough to withstand the force of a harpooned whale.
This kit has been newly revised, utilizing many laser cut wood parts. The resulting model is one of the most delicate, historically accurate representations of a whale boat. It is important to note that some pictured items may have been built with optional items not included as part of standard kits, such as pedestals, bases, cases, paint, etc.
If there are any questions about the contents of a particular kit, please contact Bluejacket.
LOA: 10″
Scale: 1/3″
Finished Model: $1,300.00
An important aspect of the New Bedford whale boat was its construction materials. These boats were traditionally built using locally sourced white oak, a strong and durable wood that could withstand the harsh conditions of the sea. The planks were carefully selected and shaped to fit together seamlessly, creating a smooth and sturdy hull. The boat was also equipped with a removable keel, which could be detached to make it easier to transport when not in use.
The interior of the New Bedford whale boat was also carefully designed to accommodate the needs of the whalers. A typical whale boat could hold between six to eight crew members and was equipped with two rowing stations, one at the bow and one at the stern. The rowers used long, sturdy oars to navigate the boat through the water, and the captain stood at the stern, steering the boat and giving commands.
In addition to its speed and durability, the New Bedford whale boat was also designed with safety in mind. The boat’s high sides provided protection from the rough waves and the possibility of being swamped by a whale. It also had a low profile, making it less visible to the whales, allowing the crew to get closer for a successful harpoon strike.
The New Bedford whale boat was not only a functional vessel but also a work of art. Many of these boats were decorated with intricate carvings, colorful paint, and personalized names, showcasing the pride and craftsmanship of the whalers who used them. They were also outfitted with essential equipment such as harpoons, lances, and ropes, all carefully maintained and organized for quick retrieval during the hunt.
The importance of the New Bedford whale boat in the whaling industry cannot be overstated. These boats allowed whalers to venture farther into the ocean, increasing their chances of a successful catch. They were also crucial in the development of the global whaling industry, as New Bedford was the largest whaling port in the world during the 19th century.
Today, the New Bedford whale boat stands as a symbol of the city’s rich maritime history and the bravery of the whalers who risked their lives in pursuit of their livelihood. While the days of whaling may be long gone, the legacy of the New Bedford whale boat lives on, reminding us of the important role it played in shaping the coastal city and the world’s whaling industry.
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$120.00
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