Recreate a specialized marine survey vessel with the MOC-216080 30ft Seismic Survey Workboat 1:23 Scale Building Blocks. Designed and authorized by Nico71, this 1,789-piece model is based on a compact 30-foot seismic workboat and combines a highly detailed hull with multiple working winches, survey equipment supports, articulated recovery arms, an opening engine compartment, and a detailed offset cabin.

Built at approximately 1:23 scale, the finished model measures around 46 cm long and focuses on the equipment and workflow used during marine seismic exploration.

Dual Rear Survey Winches

Two winches at the stern are designed to deploy and recover the flexible survey hoses and probe equipment.

Each winch incorporates a ratchet mechanism, helping hold the line in position while demonstrating how survey cables can be managed during marine operations.

Front Ratchet Winch

A separate winch is positioned toward the bow and also includes a ratchet system, adding another functional mechanical element to the deck layout.

Seismic Probe Equipment

The model includes two seismic probe elements representing the specialized equipment used to collect underwater survey data.

These details help distinguish the vessel from conventional fishing, rescue, or recreational boats.

Retractable Side Sensor

A two-stage sliding mechanism allows the side-mounted sensor assembly to extend and retract.

This recreates one of the specialized systems used to position detection equipment away from the side of the vessel during survey work.

Articulated Rear Gantry

A movable gantry at the stern helps support and guide the survey hoses during deployment and recovery.

Its articulated construction adds both functional movement and industrial character to the rear deck.

Movable Side Recovery Arms

Articulated side arms assist with guiding the survey cable back toward the boat, reproducing part of the recovery process used after data collection.

Opening Rear Guardrail

The rear safety railing can be opened, improving access to the working deck and making the stern equipment easier to inspect.

Opening Engine Compartment

The engine cover can be lifted to reveal the space beneath, adding another interactive detail to the compact workboat layout.

Detailed Offset Cabin

The cabin is positioned asymmetrically, matching the practical arrangement of the prototype vessel.

Inside, the model includes additional interior details that help complete the appearance of a real working survey boat.

Articulated Rudder

The rudder can be moved manually for display, adding another functional detail to the stern structure, although it is not connected to a powered steering system.

From the Designer

Nico71 originally designed this model in 2022 after studying a Jenmar Norpower-style workboat equipped for seismic operations.

The original goal was to create a showroom display that could demonstrate how the real vessel’s survey systems function. Particular attention was given to reproducing the complex hull shape, colored deck sections, cable handling systems, sensors, and recovery equipment without compromising the strength of the model.

The design was later developed further so builders could also adapt the platform for other marine roles such as research, rescue, or fishing.

A Specialized Marine Engineering Display

With 1,789 pieces, dual ratchet winches, retractable sensor equipment, articulated recovery systems, detailed cabin areas, and a distinctive industrial workboat profile, MOC-216080 offers a rewarding build for maritime enthusiasts, engineering collectors, and builders interested in specialized research and survey vessels.

Important Note: This model is designed as a static display model. It is not motorized and is not designed to float.