Berlin by Robbe

Info on the real boat  can be found at  here.

This kit is based on the Berlin rescue boat.   The Berlin includes quite a number of features but it's main one is the daughter boat, Steppke, that can be lowered, sailed and later retrieve all via remote control.   With all the options, this boat will require a RC transmitter with a large number of switched channels.  The Berlin's hull appears to be made out of thick plastic although the Robbe catalog calls it "Plura".  

There are several optional fitting/function sets available for this boat.  These sets include a 700 piece fitting set, a power function set that includes the three main drives and the switch for selecting two or three motors, a fire monitor function set which allows the fire monitors to be raised or lowered and includes the water pump, a bow thruster function set, a stern flap and ship's recovery function set for use by the Steppke.  All of these fittings will be describe in the build up of this boat.

Conclusion

This is a very complicated boat and requires a good deal of skill to construct.  It has a ton of functions and features and is quite impressive once completed.  I found the instructions to be pretty good although there were spots that left me confused.  The components are good quality and fit well.  All in all, I am happy with this kit.

I learned a lot building this boat and although I made a few mistakes, the boat still looks great.  I can see that some maintenance will be necessary to support all of the functions but everything is accessible in case repairs are needed.  This boat should provide many years of enjoyment and also give the builder a lot of satisfaction and pride in finishing it.  I know it did for me.

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