A Dunkirk Little Ship of Historical Importance

History & Significance

Aberdonia is a fine example of a pre-war Thornycroft motor yacht and one of the revered “Little Ships of Dunkirk.” Built in 1935, she embodies the elegance of the 1930s cruising era and carries a proud wartime service record.

During Operation Dynamo, she is believed to have made four trips to the Dunkirk beaches before being requisitioned by the Royal Navy. Renamed Navigator, she served as a patrol boat attached to HMS Fervent, working alongside minesweepers and carrying sealed orders to convoys. Remarkably, she survived an attempted kamikaze-style attack from a German bomber, damage from which remained visible until restoration decades later.

In recognition of her distinguished service, Aberdonia was commemorated on a 2015 stamp series issued in Palau for the 75th anniversary of Operation Dynamo.

Current Status

Today, Aberdonia is laid up in Scotland and requires a full restoration. For the right custodian, she represents a rare opportunity to own and revive a vessel of national and historic importance — a yacht with provenance, character, and a vital story to tell.

Enquiries

For more information and details about Aberdonia, or to discuss becoming her next custodian, please contact:
Henley Sales & Charter
📧 [email protected]