JEFF: A DUNKIRK LITTLE SHIP TAKING SHAPE AGAIN

The restoration of “Jeff” has now reached a stage where the result is starting to become visible. After months of careful structural work, this Dunkirk Little Ship is taking shape again.

The hull has been painted, most of the newly built interior has been installed, and key elements of the deck layout are now in place. The steering console and the aft superstructure have been mounted, giving a first clear impression of how “Jeff” will look once completed. With the roof currently being positioned, the full outline of the boat is starting to come together.

Behind this visible progress lies a much longer process. “Jeff”, a 39ft motor launch built in 1923 by J Mears of Richmond, was originally used for passenger trips on the Thames. She later took part in Operation Dynamo during the evacuation of Dunkirk in 1940, during the second world war and remains one of the few Little Ships still afloat today.

At VMG Yachtbuilders, the aim is not only to preserve that history, but to give “Jeff” a new purpose on the water. Together with Olivier van Meer Design, a new layout was developed that respects her original character while introducing a renewed way of using the boat.

The project began by taking the boat back to her bare hull. Everything above and within the structure was removed to assess her condition and rebuild from a solid foundation. The original timber was dried and stabilised, and weakened parts of the hull were repaired or replaced where needed.

Inside, earlier protective systems were removed, including linseed oil in the bilge and internal spaces, and replaced with a modern paint system for long term protection. The hull was sanded, primed and painted, preparing her for the decades ahead.

Restoring a vessel like “Jeff” is not something to be rushed. It requires time, precision and respect for what she represents. A boat that took part in Operation Dynamo deserves a careful and considered approach.

With each step in the refit process, “Jeff” moves closer to her next chapter.