LEGO City - Deep Sea Exploration Vessel (60095)

The Lego City Deep Sea Exploration Vessel is a complete, full-on set for investigating the depths of the ocean. Not only does this set include the main shipping vessel itself, the 717-piece collection includes 7 mini-figures, a number of sea creatures, 3 submersibles and an old wreckage to explore. There is a wealth of fun to be had with this Lego set, from construction to imaginative play.

Playing in the bath or perhaps a paddling pool is possible, as the exploration vessel itself is water tight and can actually float. It is a detailed and working model with a number of moveable parts, for instance, a diving cage that can actually be lowered down into the sea, a cinch and boat controls, as well as a dinghy that can be removed and set out on the water alone. Stickers are also included and add a nice element of detail to the body of the ship. The roof of the captain's control room can be removed for access to this area while driving the vessel, and the entire control room itself can be removed to reveal the lower deck where the crew sleep after a long day out at sea. The 7 Lego men represent 4 divers, a captain and 2 crew members to man the ship.

Below the surface of the water there is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The wreckage on the sea bed is surrounded by rocks and greenery and is home to a number of precious gold bars which when moved, unless very, very carefully, cause part of the wreckage to collapse. Deep sea diving is dangerous activity it seems, and the presence of certain sea creatures does not improve things; also included among the pieces are 4 sharks and an octopus.

Luckily, the divers are well-equipped to deal with most typical underwater conditions and don safety helmets, oxygen tanks and flippers. Should the need for extra equipment arise, these guys have access to a pair of binoculars, a walkie talkie and a welder. 3 different types of submersibles are also present on the ship; two manned and one unmanned, for exploring far and wide below the surface.

Hours of fun and entertainment can be had with this extensive and highly engaging set. The vessel itself is impressively large and each of the additional components expand the possibilities for play in the deep sea world. A worthwhile investment, this Lego edition makes a fantastic gift idea for birthdays or Christmas. Minimum recommended age is 8 years.