SS City of New York Ocean Liner 36 inches boat model

SS City of New York Ocean Liner – 36-Inch Handcrafted Wooden Model

Own a handcrafted model of the SS City of New York, one of the most celebrated transatlantic ocean liners of the late 19th century. Launched in 1888 for the Inman Line, she was among the largest and fastest passenger ships of her era, representing a major leap forward in steamship design and engineering. Shortly after entering service, the SS City of New York captured the prestigious Blue Riband for the fastest westbound transatlantic crossing, cementing her reputation as one of the world's premier ocean liners. Following the acquisition of the Inman Line by the American Line, she continued her distinguished career under the name SS New York, transporting thousands of passengers across the Atlantic during the golden age of steamship travel.

Our 36-inch handcrafted SS City of New York Ocean Liner model faithfully captures the distinctive appearance of this legendary vessel. Each model is individually built by experienced craftsmen using the traditional plank-on-frame construction method—the same principle used in real wooden shipbuilding. We select only premium hardwoods, including Western Red Cedar, Teak, and Mahogany, ensuring exceptional durability, refined craftsmanship, and a timeless museum-quality finish.

Every element is carefully recreated, from the gracefully proportioned hull and elegant superstructure to the twin funnels, bridge, promenade decks, lifeboats, masts, cargo booms, ventilators, railings, and other signature features that define the SS City of New York. Rather than being mass-produced, each model is handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a stunning display piece worthy of any maritime, ocean liner, or historic steamship collection.

The 36-inch model offers an exceptional balance of impressive scale and fine craftsmanship. Its larger size allows for even greater detail and a more commanding display presence while remaining suitable for bookshelves, executive offices, display cabinets, or home libraries. The increased dimensions provide additional realism, making it an outstanding centerpiece for collectors, ocean liner enthusiasts, maritime historians, or anyone who appreciates the elegance and innovation of the Golden Age of Transatlantic Travel.

Each piece is individually handcrafted, and production typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the model's size and complexity. Throughout the process, we'll keep you updated with detailed progress photos at every major milestone, allowing you to review the craftsmanship and approve each stage before we move forward.

You'll receive photos during:

- Hull construction
- Deck detailing and superstructure assembly
- Final painting and finishing

Your satisfaction comes first. We proceed to the next stage only after you've reviewed the previous one.

Secure Worldwide Delivery

Once you approve the completed model, it will be carefully packed in a custom-built wooden shipping crate with multiple layers of protective cushioning to ensure it arrives safely anywhere in the world.

Custom Orders Available

Looking for a different size or a personalized version? We offer custom dimensions, modifications, and bespoke designs upon request. Whether you'd like a larger display model, a custom nameplate, personalized markings, or a specific historical configuration, our craftsmen are ready to bring your vision to life.

Bring home a handcrafted tribute to one of the pioneering express liners that transformed transatlantic travel. Whether you're expanding a maritime collection, decorating your office, celebrating the golden age of ocean liners, or searching for a meaningful gift, our handcrafted SS City of New York Ocean Liner model is built to become a centerpiece you'll be proud to display for years to come.

Contact us today to begin building your custom SS City of New York Ocean Liner model.

History
Launched in 1888 for the Inman Line, the SS City of New York was a marvel of Victorian engineering. As the first twin-screw express liner, she offered unparalleled safety and reliability while quickly establishing new records for transatlantic speed. In 1893, following a legislative act, she and her sister ship were transferred to the American Line, becoming the first major vessels to sail under the U.S. flag in decades. She served as a glamorous symbol of the Gilded Age, ferrying wealthy socialites and hopeful immigrants alike, while her luxurious interiors set the definitive standard for late 19th-century ocean travel.

Her career saw dramatic shifts during wartime. Recommissioned as the auxiliary cruiser USS Harvard during the Spanish-American War, she served with distinction before returning to commercial service. During the First World War, she again answered the call of duty, this time as the troopship USS Plattsburg, safely transporting thousands of soldiers across the submarine-infested Atlantic. Following the conflict, the aging vessel briefly returned to passenger service before being sold for scrap in 1923. Though she eventually met the breaker's yard, her legacy remains fixed as a pioneering vessel that successfully bridged the gap between early steamships and the massive superliners of the early 20th century.