Discovery and Restoration of a Dunkirk Little Ship

Discovery and Restoration of a Dunkirk Little Ship The restoration and discovery of a 1934 Dunkirk Little Ship Rakes Retreat. Originally Estrallita She was designed and built by John Thorncraft & Co.

This page will follow my father and the restoration of the Motor Yacht 'Rake's Retreat'. History:

Built in 1934 Rake's Retreat, originally named 'Estrellita', is a 48ft, triple screw, wooden motor yacht. ltd of Hampton on Thames, Middlesex. Estrillita returned to Thornycroft's yard in Spring 1934 to be lengthened by 4ft with the addition of a canoe stern replacing the original transom. In 1940 sh

e was requisitioned by the Royal Navy as a harbour patrol vessel in the Rochester and Chatham area, manned by a Petty Officer, Coxwain, Able Seaman and mechanic. Decommissioned in 1946. After only a few years ownership Estrillita was sold re-named Little Star. In 1955 she was moved to the the River Thames. In 1960 she was bought by the television presenter and personality Hughie Green who re-named her Rakes Retreat. During Hughies time at Thames Television filming Opportunity Knocks he moored Rakes Retreat at Teddingon and lived aboard. Now registered as an historic ship all Rakes Retreat's original plans / records, river trial photographs are kept at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich.

19/01/2026

This morning greeted us with a brisk -8°C! If you're heading out on the water or braving the cold, please take extra care. Make sure to bundle up and stay warm!

Safety is our top priority, whether you're on land or at sea. Remember to check your gear and ensure you're prepared for the chilly conditions.

Stay safe, and we look forward to seeing you in our cozy classroom soon!

Not all the Little Ships in Ramsgate went in 1940
25/05/2025

Not all the Little Ships in Ramsgate went in 1940

30/01/2025

Today we are back in the classroom hosting our RYA VHF Radio course. 📡 Our students have been hard at work mastering the use of our training radios and learning essential routine communications that ensure safety and boost confidence on the water. This afternoon, we’ll dive into the critical topics of distress and urgency calls.

Missed today’s class? No problem! Our next course is scheduled for February 10th, giving you another opportunity to acquire these vital skills.

29/01/2025

🚤 Spring into Adventure with our RYA Powerboat Level 2 Courses. 🌊

Ready to start your powerboat journey? Why not book onto one of our renowned RYA Powerboat Level 2 course – the essential qualification for anyone looking to get out on the water with confidence!

Whether you're a complete beginner or just want to refresh your skills, this course covers everything you need to safely handle a powerboat, from navigation to emergency procedures.

What You'll Learn:
✅ Boat handling in various conditions
✅ Practical skills for mooring and launching
✅ Safety protocols & essential navigation
✅ Man overboard techniques and what to do in an emergency

💥 No experience necessary, just a passion for the water!

Spaces are filling up fast – don’t miss your chance to secure your spot and kick off your boating season with the skills that matter!

📞 Contact us today to book your place!
www.eastcoastmotorboattraining.co.uk
+44(0)7570 794196

Admiral Bertram Ramsey who planned and resourced Operation Dynamo the evacuation of the BEF from the beaches of Dunkirk....
23/11/2024

Admiral Bertram Ramsey who planned and resourced Operation Dynamo the evacuation of the BEF from the beaches of Dunkirk. 2025 is the 85th anniversary of this epic event . The Dunkirk Spirit will prevail to get this Little Ship recognised.

2025 will be the 85th Anniversary
18/11/2024

2025 will be the 85th Anniversary

2025 will be the 85th Anniversary of Dunkirk and commemorations will be going on through the country. The flotilla of Li...
18/11/2024

2025 will be the 85th Anniversary of Dunkirk and commemorations will be going on through the country. The flotilla of Little Ships that left Poole will be recognised and their story told in Poole where Estrallita was based and returned to.

06/11/2024
Well none of this adds up. Its only one out of a dozen questions that need to be asked.
18/09/2024

Well none of this adds up. Its only one out of a dozen questions that need to be asked.

05/09/2024

As we enter into September it's not too late to book onto one of our RYA Powerboat Level 2 Courses.

Join us on the water and gain the skills you need to become a confident powerboater while soaking in some of the most stunning views the area has to offer at this time of the year.

For more details and to register, visit www.eastcoastmotorboattraining.co.uk or call 07570 794196

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Somerleyton

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