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To ride, fly, sail, everything is there at MHD!
Calypso Billing Boats – Wooden model kit of the famous oceanographic vessel of Commander Cousteau
Relive legendary maritime expeditions with the wooden model of the Calypso, the iconic ship of Commander Jacques-Yves Cousteau.
Faithfully reproduced by Billing Boats, this buildable model pays tribute to one of the most emblematic vessels in oceanographic exploration.
The full-wood construction uses laser-cut parts for precise assembly and a professional finish.
The complete fittings kit included allows an accurate reproduction of every element of the ship.
The model can be built as a static display or as a radio-controlled sailing version (optional motorisation and RC system). This 1/45 scale model, produced in collaboration with the Cousteau Foundation, represents the Calypso, the legendary oceanographic vessel of Commander Jacques-Yves Cousteau.
The one and only radio-controlled model of Calypso to be built. Model dimensions: 940 mm long, 170 mm wide, 330 mm high.
From November 2025, the Calypso Billing Boats model kit comes with a new full-color illustrated assembly manual featuring 211 clear steps, making the build accessible even for beginners.
The PDF manual can be downloaded by clicking the icon below the description.
Calypso RC 1/45 2023 radio -controlled electric boat
Plus de detailsCalypso RC 1/45 2023 radio -controlled electric boat
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SPEED 400 6V engine electric motor€14.95 - ref. S02142235 |
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Bati on -board accessory for Electric engines 400/480€7.95 - ref. S02163920 |
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Elastic 28mm elastic coupling accessory accessory€6.95 - ref. S022RO1445 |
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Servos for pro-Tronik SERVO Analog SERVO RADIOCMAND 6812 TG-A€22.95 - ref. S04376812 |
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ESC BR Quicrun 880 Double outlet€50.00 - ref. Z54HWQR880 |
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Ultimate Pro 10 / 100W radio -controlled battery charger€59.95 - ref. Z032060 |
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Set for radio radio control PTR-6A V2 6-way + NIMH battery€89.95 - ref. S03770100 |
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NIMH battery for radio-controlled device Pack 7.2V/AP-2100SC Tamiya€24.79 - ref. Z03N6212F |
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Acrylic paint pot white acrylic shiny 22m€3.00 - ref. LC51 |
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Acrylic paint pot acrylic black shiny 22ml€3.00 - ref. LC52 |
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Acrylic paint pot acrylic yellow shiny 22m€3.00 - ref. LC53 |
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Acrylic paint pot acrylic orange brill. 22ml€3.00 - ref. LC55 |
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Acrylic paint Red acrylic jar brilliant. 22ml€3.00 - ref. LC56 |
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Acrylic paint pot acrylic green emerald 22ml€3.00 - ref. LC63 |
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Acrylic paint pot acrylic brown brill. 22ml€3.00 - ref. LC67 |
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Acrylic paint pot acrylic light gray 22ml€3.00 - ref. LC68 |
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Acrylic paint pot acrylic metal brill. 22ml€3.00 - ref. LC74 |
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Acrylic paint Kriegsmarine Schiffsbodenfarbe Rot 5 22ml€3.00 - ref. UA606 |
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Glue for aliphatical glue 100 ml€9.95 - ref. S0681016 |
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30 -minute Z -Poxy model glue - 237ml€28.90 - ref. S165PT39 |
The Calypso, a symbol of exploration and ocean discovery, played a crucial role in advancing marine research and protecting our precious marine environment.
The Calypso was initially built as a minesweeper in 1943. However, it was purchased by Commander Cousteau in 1950, who transformed it into an oceanographic vessel and named it “Calypso” after the sea nymph from Greek mythology.
Main features :
Structure and Design: The Calypso featured a robust steel hull and a distinctive design with a deck crane allowing easy deployment of diving and underwater exploration equipment. The model faithfully reflects these elements, highlighting the functional design of the ship.
Diving Equipment: The Calypso was equipped with revolutionary diving gear for its time, including the Aqualung autonomous diving system, which gave divers greater freedom to explore the deep sea. The model may illustrate these iconic pieces of equipment, showing how they were stored and used on board. The 42-meter-long, 360-ton ship was powered by two 600-hp diesel engines and reached a maximum speed of 13 knots.
Research Laboratories: Onboard research laboratories allowed scientists to analyse samples collected from the seabed. The model may highlight these dedicated areas for scientific research and analysis.
Exploration and Discoveries: The Calypso travelled across the world’s oceans and contributed to major discoveries such as the exploration of the wreck of Louis XIV’s ship La Lune. The model may include references to some of the vessel’s most iconic missions and discoveries.
The Calypso and the work of Commander Cousteau played a key role in raising public awareness about the importance of protecting the oceans and marine life. Their documentaries and research inspired generations to explore and safeguard our fragile marine ecosystem.
The Model :
The Billing Boats model was created from original plans with the kind cooperation of the Cousteau Foundation.
The building kit contains all the materials required to assemble the model, except the optional elements needed to make it navigable.
ABS plastic hull. Wooden deck and superstructure parts, brass fittings, diving saucer, helicopter, dinghies and platform in plastic, etc.
Powered by two electric motors. 2- or 4-channel RC system not included.
Recommended equipment (not supplied): Motors: 2 × 400-class, electronic speed controller, battery and radio control.
All the necessary equipment to make your Calypso sail is offered below.
Main characteristics
Scale: approx. 1/45
Length: 895 mm
Width: 150 mm
Height: 370 mm
Construction: Laser-cut wood and complete fittings
Sailing version possible: Yes, optional RC motorisation
The Billing Boats Calypso is an iconic model that will delight enthusiasts of naval modelling and maritime exploration.
A true symbol of discovery, it embodies the spirit of adventure and Commander Cousteau’s passion for the ocean.
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