"Lady Sylvia" is a genuine Dunkirk Little Ship with a rich history with modern updates so she is fit for today's boating.

Her current owners acquired her in December 2015, following a long 30-year stretch with her previous owner. This ship is well-known for her repeated voyages to Dunkirk, each one honoured by a bronze plaque in the wheelhouse. A thorough inspection after she was bought by the current owners confirmed the hull is in good shape, though the top structure looked a bit tired.

Working with an experienced surveyor, they began a detailed restoration project. They took out the interior to check the structure and fixed or reinforced any weak spots in the framing. Worn hull planks were replaced and the decks and roof covered with strong epoxy resin and glass cloth to keep water out.

Inside, everything has been redone from the bulkheads to the crossbeams. Bespoke plastic tanks were installed for fresh and wastewater and they put in a new water heater for comfort at sea. 'Lady Sylvia' has a heating system and the full electrical system has been modernised. They didn't skip any details, fitting out "Lady Sylvia" with new cabinets and storage spaces.

In the summer of 2022 she got two brand new 60 hp Thornycroft diesel engines and a refresh was done on the gearboxes. She was anti-fouled paint every two years, and the body above the waterline got a fresh paint job in the summer of 2023. Plus, the mast and rigging were completely redone in 2023. You can expect comfortable sleeping, an excellent galley, modern heads etc.

A 2019 structural survey states: "A well constructed timber cruiser from a good builder. This timber cruiser is in good condition. The level of refurbishment since our previous out of water survey dated 2016, is to a good standard and is extensive, a credit to the current owner.

Sadly due to illness the current owners have had their hopes dashed of returning to Dunkirk in 2025 for the forthcoming commemorations, the first for 10 years due to the onslaught of the pandemic. The town of Dunkirk is excited about seeing the largest fleet for many years and whoever takes on Lady Sylvia will be surrounded by an admiring public as well as a member of the prestigious members club the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships. For more information on Lady Sylvia you can visit their website or read The Little Ships of Dunkirk by Christian Brann.

'Lady Sylvia' has a current boat safety certificate and is available for viewing in the Midlands by appointment.