Zvezda 9012 “POURQUOI PAS” THREE MAST STEAM BARK 1/100 – Detailed model of a steam-powered sailing ship

Zvezda 9012 "POURQUOI PAS" is a 1/100 scale plastic model kit that allows you to faithfully recreate one of the most famous three-masted steam barques of the 20th century. This unique ship model is dedicated both to advanced modellers and enthusiasts of maritime history. The realistic reproduction of the vessel will transport you to the era of polar expeditions and scientific challenges on the northern seas.

Historical description of the ship “Pourquoi Pas?”

“Pourquoi Pas?” (French for “Why Not?”) was a French three-masted sailing ship with auxiliary steam power, being the fourth ship to bear this name and owned by the famous explorer and sailor Jean-Baptiste Charcot. The vessel was built in 1908 in Saint-Malo, serving from the early 20th century to the 1930s (the interwar period and the era of pioneering polar expeditions). "Pourquoi Pas?" was mainly used for scientific expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic, where it served as a research platform for the exploration of unknown regions. The ship became renowned for its endurance in harsh polar conditions as well as its rich scientific heritage.

Technical Specifications of the Model

• Scale: 1/100
• Country of use: France
• Period of use: early 20th century, interwar period
• Material: high-quality plastic (polystyrene)
• Additional elements: realistically reproduced hull, deck, masts, and period superstructures
• Category: plastic model kit
• Included: sprues with model parts, detailed assembly instructions
• Set does not include glue or paints – to be purchased separately

Who do we recommend the Zvezda 9012 “POURQUOI PAS” model for?

We recommend this model to lovers of sailing ships, modellers interested in the age of great geographical discoveries, as well as all enthusiasts of research and polar vessels. Due to its wealth of details and complex structure, this kit is ideal for intermediate to advanced modellers. It is also an excellent choice for collectors wishing to expand their collection with a unique vessel of exceptionally rich history. The build difficulty on a scale of 1-5 is rated at 4 – precision, patience, and basic modelling skills are required.

Advantages and Uniqueness of the Model

• True-to-life historical reproduction of a legendary scientific sailing ship
• Meticulously detailed masts, rigging, deck superstructures, and hull
• Excellent basis for advanced painting and custom modifications
• Ideal starting point for dioramas depicting polar expeditions
• Wide variety of uses in both exhibition and recreational modelling

By choosing the Zvezda 9012 “POURQUOI PAS” THREE MAST STEAM BARK 1/100, you are investing in a valuable collectible model with a soul and a fascinating history of scientific heritage.