*British, c1982, Resin Model of Vosper Hovermarine VHM 527*
Very rare original resin model of a Vosper Hovermarine VHM 527. Named.
Approximate Measurements: 11.5cm x 4cm wide x 4cm tall
Hovermarine, formed in 1965, specialized in sidewall hovercraft, offering models ranging from 30-seat HM2 craft to larger HM527 vessels carrying up to 200 passengers. Early craft like the HM2, first operated by Seaspeed in 1968, faced mechanical issues and financial challenges, leading to Hovermarine's liquidation in 1969 and acquisition by Hovermarine Transport Ltd, later part of Transportation Technology Inc.
The HM527, part of Hovermarine's later line-up, was used extensively in Hong Kong, where Hong Kong Ferry Ltd operated four HM527 craft, along with other models, until services ceased in 2001. These craft, known for durability and versatility, were used globally for passenger transport, firefighting, surveillance, and surveys.
Hovermarine underwent several ownership changes, becoming Vosper Hovermarine Ltd in 1980 and later Hovermarine International before entering receivership in 1997. By this time, over 110 vessels had been built and operated in more than 40 countries. The Woolston factory site in Southampton, once Hovermarine's base, later became home to Griffin Hoverwork in 2011.
HM 527 Series 1 - prototype launched January 1982
89 ft 3 in long
33 ft 6 in beam
200 passengers (split between 2 air conditioned saloons)
36 kt
propulsion - 2 x 1200 hp MTU 12V 396 TB83 diesels
*Condition*
Good used condition with chips to the front right hand side. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
