Billing Boats Jacques Costeau Calypso Research Vessel 1:45

The World's Most Famous Research Vessel. 

Some ships are beautiful. Some are historic. Very few are instantly recognizable.

The Calypso belongs in that rare category.

For decades, Jacques-Yves Cousteau's famous research vessel carried explorers, filmmakers and scientists to places most people would only ever see on television. With her yellow submersibles, helicopter, diving chamber and unmistakable white-and-green profile, she became the face of ocean exploration.

Billing Boats has recreated that legend in an impressive 1:45 scale model measuring nearly 37 inches (94 cm) long.

This isn't a quick weekend project. It's a centerpiece.

Why Experienced Builders Love This Kit

An Exceptionally Detailed Working Vessel

Unlike warships that often repeat the same fittings over and over, the Calypso is packed with unique structures and specialized equipment.

You'll build:

the famous Hughes helicopter

inflatable Zodiac boats

the Galeazzi diving chamber

the distinctive observation chamber in the stern

cranes, winches and research equipment

antennas, railings and countless deck details

Every section introduces something different, making the project engaging from beginning to end.

A Large Scale That Rewards Careful Building

At 1:45 scale, the Calypso offers enough size for crisp detailing without becoming overwhelming.

The nearly one-meter hull provides plenty of room to appreciate weathering, deck equipment, railings and rigging—making the finished model an impressive display piece from every angle.

ABS Hull: Ideal for RC or Static Display

One of the biggest advantages of this kit is its one-piece ABS hull.

Instead of spending weeks fairing and sealing a traditionally planked hull, you begin with a perfectly shaped, watertight foundation.

Builders planning an RC conversion particularly appreciate this design, while static modelers enjoy the clean lines and accurate hull shape. The spacious interior also simplifies installation of motors, batteries and radio equipment for those choosing to make her operational.

Multi-Media Construction

Billing Boats combines several materials to capture the Calypso accurately.

Inside the box you'll find:

One-piece ABS hull

Laser-cut wooden deck and superstructure parts

Brass rod and metal fittings

Plastic detail components

Rigging materials

Decals

Full-size plans

Illustrated building manual with photographs 

Designed for Experienced Builders

The Calypso is considered an Expert-level project.

Not because the construction is unnecessarily difficult—but because of the sheer number of details that bring the ship to life.

Builders who enjoy adding railings, research equipment, small boats and countless finishing touches will find this kit immensely satisfying.

Specifications

SKU: BBoats01-00-0560

Scale: 1:45

Skill Level: Expert

Hull: One-piece ABS plastic

Finished Size

Length: 37" (94 cm)

Height: 13" (33 cm)

Width: 6.7" (17 cm)

Builder's Tip

If you're planning an RC conversion, think about your running gear before installing the deck. The generous interior makes motor installation straightforward, but planning battery placement, shaft alignment and ballast early will make the build much easier later. Many builders specifically choose the Calypso because its ABS hull and spacious interior lend themselves exceptionally well to radio control.

Download Manual

Download Photomanual