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MarisStella Ltd
Introduction to a Premier Manufacturer of Ship Model Kits.
MarisStella Ltd was established in 2008, and it is an association of 7 smaller companies specializing in high-quality ship model kits and wooden model ship kits. Its location is in Split, the regional capital of Dalmatia. Dalmatia is the region of Croatia located on the east shore of the Adriatic Sea, rich in maritime history dating back to ancient times—a heritage that strongly influences MarisStella’s line of scale model ships and historical model boat kits.
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A Tradition of Craftsmanship and Maritime Authenticity
It is with these companies that MarisStella designs, manufactures, and distributes its line of premium prefabricated ship model kits. These scale model kits are predominantly of vessels from the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas, making them especially valuable to collectors and enthusiasts seeking historically accurate wooden ship model kits.
MarisStella draws its ideas for these projects from the historical, and at times turbulent, periods of these areas by conducting what sometimes becomes exhaustive research. Many of these research projects date back before the MarisStella association itself, ensuring that every model ship kit reflects strong maritime heritage, precise craftsmanship, and deep historical relevance.
Commitment to Quality and Authenticity
This association and its team of professionals strive to produce a superior high-end quality product and will readily stand behind their work. Originality, credibility, and responsibility are the foundations MarisStella was built upon and will always remain its highest priority.
Every wooden ship model kit is created with exceptional attention to detail, offering modelers the opportunity to craft vessels with authentic structure, historically correct elements, and premium materials.
Continuous Improvement for Model Shipbuilding Enthusiasts
The MarisStella association is constantly seeking ways of improving itself and the product line that is offered, to further enhance the customer’s voyage in this rewarding hobby of model shipbuilding. These ongoing innovations allow hobbyists and professional craftsmen alike to enjoy some of the market’s finest model boat kits and scale ship kits.
A Global Community of Modellers and Craftsmen
Finally, MarisStella would like to thank the many customers from all corners of the world who purchase kits and follow the MarisStella product line and its changes and/or additions. MarisStella truly hopes that these many modellers and craftsmen are taking great pleasure in building MarisStella kits.
There are prototype models built from these kits that have been painted with all colours of medals from national and international competitions; however, it is the customer that is the greatest honour.
Put Your Trust… in MarisStella Ship Model Kits
MarisStella welcomes both newcomers and experienced builders into its world of premium wooden ship model kits, crafted with precision, history, and passion.
Corporate Culture & Brand Philosophy
Core Values
Historical Fidelity
Every model must honor the original vessel with research-based accuracy.
Authentic Craftsmanship
We uphold traditional shipbuilding principles in miniature form.
Respect for Modelers
Our products are designed for builders who value depth, challenge, and authenticity.
our story
Revisiting European Maritime Heritage
2008
2009
2014
2018
2021
2023
2008 — Foundation of MarisStella Ltd
MarisStella Ltd was officially founded in 2008 in Split, Croatia, as an association of seven smaller companies. From its inception, the organization focused on designing, manufacturing, and distributing high-quality wooden ship model kits inspired by the maritime heritage of the Adriatic and Mediterranean regions. The founding team set the core values of originality, craftsmanship, credibility, and responsibility—principles that continue to guide the brand today.
2009–2014 — Establishing the Core Product Line
During the first developmental stage, MarisStella introduced its initial collection of traditional Adriatic and Mediterranean vessels, including iconic regional ship types such as the Trabaccolo, Brazzera, Gajeta, and Falkuša.
To ensure historical accuracy and superior craftsmanship, the company incorporated advanced manufacturing methods such as laser-cut components, photo-etched metal parts, and detailed research based on archival maritime records. Many of these research projects pre-dated the company itself, providing an authentic foundation for every new model kit.
2014–2018 — Beginner Programs and Educational Kits
In this period, MarisStella expanded its offering by developing a beginner-friendly line of entry-level model ship kits under the “I Start Early” program. Created in cooperation with the School of Ship Modeling ZTKDU in Dubrovnik, these sets—such as the Tug and the Batel—enabled young hobbyists and newcomers to learn essential modeling techniques before progressing to more complex historical ships.
This educational initiative strengthened MarisStella’s commitment to supporting all levels of the model shipbuilding community.
2018–2021 — Preservation of Classic Ship Types and Brand Expansion
MarisStella launched the “OldSeller” sub-brand, dedicated to recreating historically significant but stylistically classical vessels, including the Nava and early Galley-type ships.
While preserving traditional forms, these kits adopted modern construction methods such as precision laser cutting and improved wood milling to enhance accuracy and builder experience.
During the same period, MarisStella broadened its distribution channels and strengthened its presence across Europe and other global markets.
2021–2023 — Advanced Kits and International Recognition
The introduction of advanced kits—such as the highly detailed HMS Speedy (Scale 1:48)—marked a significant milestone in MarisStella’s evolution. These kits featured high-grade walnut timber, photo-etched brass components, copper-plated hull options, and comprehensive 3D-based construction manuals.
Prototype builds of MarisStella kits began winning medals in national and international modeling competitions, further solidifying the brand’s reputation for precision and authenticity.
2023–Present — Modernization, Technology Integration, and Global Community
Recent years have seen the integration of 3D-printed decorative elements, refined laser-engraved structures, and upgraded sailmaking materials into new model releases.
MarisStella also continues to build a global community of modelers through its presence in international forums, hobbyist clubs, and online platforms, where builders frequently share detailed build logs and reviews.
The company’s focus remains steady: continuous improvement of its wooden model ship kits, elevating the craft of model shipbuilding for hobbyists and master builders around the world.
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Craft as devotion
Precision is earned through years of practice, not shortcuts.
Precision
Historical integrity guides all design decisions.