Building Robbe’s “Valdivia”
 Robbe's Valdivia-- catalog image |
 The real Valdivia |
| Part1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 |
I had the pleasure to construct Robbe’s “Valdivia” R/C schooner in 2006 for a multipart magazine article.”Valdivia” may be Robbe’s most expensive model boat offering, but it goes together beautifully. It’s neither a racer nor a museum model, but truly a fine and impressive pond boat.
Follow along here as I present the build in four parts.
As one who built several static ships in his youth and who is now contemplating returning to this joyous pursuit (but with the added thrill of R/C now more intelligble than ever!), I welcomed reading your superb and clear account of your experience building the, “Valdivia.” I would love to build a large-scale R/C guided version of the Nova Scotian schooner Bluenose, but really am daunted by the technical requirements that accompany this effort. Where and how would u suggest I become savvy in sailing ship via R/C? My next project would be upgrading my static version of the Emma C. Berry, a long-time resident of yon living room desk-top. Thnx in advance for any help. RJM
It’s always good to have a local club to hang out with… but short of that, try the “Scale Sail” forum at RC Groups:
http://www.rcgroups.com/boats-54/
Also, look into this book:
https://shop.traplet.com/product.aspx?c=297
(may be available through Amazon or other sites).
Ask questions, and have fun!
i would love to attempt to build your Valdivia R/C kit. Is it still available and if so what might it cost.
It’s not “my” kit… the example that I built has already been sold. I’m not a retailer… please contact a retailer for cost info, or get an idea from Robbe’s webiste, http://at.robbe-online.net/rims_at.storefront/en (search on “Valdivia”). In the US, one retailer is Harbor Models, http://harbormodels.com/ . The kit is not listed there, but I know they can order it.