John, there is a build sequence of pics ( 6 pages)
http://groups.msn.com/MannedModelShips which might interest you. If your project isn`t going to be on static display a flat bottomed ship like the Portsmouth Model Boat Display team`s might be the route to go. Have a look in
www.pmbdt.co.uk under manned models. Helimetric ? Care to explain your tag?