Gibbs & Son Dunkirk Little Ship for sale in CA United States of America

Overview

All Dunkirk Little Ships are unique, linked by their participation in Operation Dynamo. During this operation, the British navy was supported by hundreds of small ships requisitioned to evacuate British and French forces from the Normandy beaches. This story has been recounted many times, including in the recent film Dunkirk.

Current Status of Lady Isabelle

Lady Isabelle is currently based in California. She has been sold three times during my 30-year career as a classic boat broker, twice to the same person. The owner wishes for this special little ship to return to the UK. I am awaiting new photos of the recent revarnish job carried out locally in Newport Beach, California. Fortunately, her length allows for repatriation in a container directly from her present location.

Historical Context

Several Gibbs launches moored on the Thames during World War II were commandeered as part of the Home Guard. In the Reading Upper Thames area, many were owned and operated by women in their own uniforms. Members of the Home Guard patrolled the river 24/7, fearing an invasion via the Thames corridor. Remnants of concrete bunkers can still be seen along the riverside in several locations.

Specifications and History of Lady Isabelle

Lady Isabelle is one of the larger inland waterways fleet boats and one of the smallest sea-going boats. She is a proud and bona fide member of the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships (ADLS). Although she would have struggled to cross the Channel, she reportedly arrived on La Panne beach amid heavy shelling, as noted in 'The Little Ships of Dunkirk' by Christian Brann. She can cut through calm water at 12 knots, powered by her 6-cylinder Gray marine engine. Her Staines-based owners never forgave the boatyard that allowed their precious Gibbs to be requisitioned.

Restoration and Maintenance

Her ownership history is relatively well documented. At one point, the boat even had a cabin. However, in 1981, she was in a very poor condition. A new owner commissioned the legendary Peter Freebody to restore her to her original state. A reconditioned 1934 Gray engine was sourced and fitted while the boat underwent complete refurbishment. Subsequent owners over the last forty years have maintained this glorious varnished carvel constructed Gibbs launch to a very high standard.

Award and Membership

Interestingly, during one phase of her long history, Lady Isabelle won a prize in the sixties for adventurous cruising. What would her owners have thought of her membership in the Balboa Yacht Club in Newport Beach?

Future Commitment

Who will commit to the next decade or at least to the next Dunkirk return in 2025? We await recent images to add to the website.