MS Arkona

The original


The MS Arkona was originally built as the MS Astor in 1981 and renamed MS Arkona in 1985. It is most well-known for its appearance in the German TV Series "Traumschiff" (in 1983/84) and the DFF TV series "Luv und Lee" (in 1990).


The MS Arkona sailed from 1985 onwards under a GDR flag until the reunification in 1990, mostly in the Baltic and the Caribbean around Cuba. In 2002, it was renamed MS Astoria and later sold again, being renamed Quest for Glory and then Saga Pearl II.


As a cruise ship, the MS Arkona could accommodate about 600 passengers, employing a crew of 220 staff. Being much smaller than other cruise ships today, Saga Cruises therefore today promotes it as more of a “yacht like” experience to take a cruise on this ship. In 2017, the Saga Pearl II sails out of various British ports.    


Information on the original:

    Wikipedia overview on the ship

   German documentary by NDR

    Photo series on Shipspotting


The model


The Model is designed in 1:400 scale. It can be built as a model for static display or as a working RC boat. It is set up to enable radio control functions (RC), both for the shaft and the rudder as well as the bow thruster. As the hull is rather slim, the model can only be used in very quiet water conditions. Additionally, the lights can be set up to work, and additional functionality can be designed. However, this model is not set up to be ready to run, it requires refinement and is only suitable for skilled model builders.



Size of the model

    scale        1:400

    length      41,1 cm

    width       6,3 cm


See the MS Arkona gallery for more pictures.


The assembly manual is available for download in the download section. Similarly, the basic hull (without holes, decks, and fittings) can be downloaded there.



The Kit


The kit is available through Shapeways:


  1. •Only the printed parts, directly from Shapeways

  2. •The total model consists of two sets of printed parts: Hull and Decks & Details. The kit also includes the parts to build a static model including the shafts and props.

  3. •A display stand is available, too.

  4. •The assembly manual is available in the download section.   

  5. •In case of problems or questions, don‘t hesitate to contact me: info@microboathobby.com


Source       Harald Köhler - Eigenes Werk, CC BY-SA 3.0,
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=31845354