JEFF: FROM STRIPPED TO STRUCTURE

The restoration of “Jeff”, a 39ft Dunkirk Little Ship built in 1923, is a process of patience, precision and care. Designed by J Mears of Richmond for passenger cruises on the Thames, she later became part of Operation Dynamo during the evacuation of Dunkirk. Now, more than a century after her launch, “Jeff” is being restored at VMG Yachtbuilders, not only to preserve her story, but to prepare her for a new life as a luxury canal cruiser.

In the early stages of the refit, the entire boat was stripped back to her bare hull. Everything above and within the structure was removed to assess her condition and make way for a complete rebuild. Working with the team at Olivier van Meer Design, we developed a new layout that respects her classic lines while offering modern function and comfort.

Technically, much has been done. The original hull was dried and stabilised, and key parts of the hull were rebuilt, including weakened frames and floors. We also removed the old protective linseed oil coatings in the bilge, under the floors and behind the bulwarks, replacing them with a modern paint system for long-term protection. The hull was fully sanded, primed and prepped for the new coating build-up. A bow thruster has also been installed.

And now, “Jeff” is entering a new phase: the beginning of her rebuild. Painting is well underway, from the hull to the interior, and for the first time she is visibly taking shape again. The new steering console and aft superstructure, which houses the toilet, have been mounted on board. These parts give the first real glimpse of her new silhouette. Soon, the full-length roof will follow, completing the outline of the redesigned deckhouse.

Restoring a vessel like “Jeff”, with her history, her age and her purpose ,is not something you do quickly. It requires time, skill and respect for what she has been and what she will become. And with each step, her new life is getting more visible.

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