Ramsgate’s Royal Harbour is preparing for an unforgettable event when up to 70 Dunkirk Little Ships gather to commemorate the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo.
From 16th to 26th May 2025, this historic flotilla will honour the heroic efforts of those who rescued British soldiers and Allied troops from the beaches of Dunkirk in 1940.
This will be the largest assembly of Dunkirk Little Ships in Ramsgate since the Second World War, making it a not-to-be-missed occasion. The fleet, many vessels over a century old, will begin arriving on Friday 16th May, before setting sail for Dunkirk from 6am on Wednesday 21st May, escorted by Royal Navy, Estuary Services and RNLI vessels. Returning on Monday 26th May from 4pm, they will receive a hero’s welcome with a piper, standard bearers, and cheering crowds.
Kevin Finn, Commodore of the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships, said, “The Return to Dunkirk in May 2025 is an opportunity to join the skippers and crew of these historic vessels to celebrate the continued survival of the remaining Little Ships. They stand as a reminder of the rescue of over 330,000 British and allied troops from the beaches of Dunkirk. The weekend will be the first time the Dunkirk Little Ships have gathered in such a large number in Ramsgate’s Royal Inner Harbour since May 1940.”
In and around the Royal Harbour, there will be a wonderful festival feel to commemorate the return of the Dunkirk Little Ships, including:
The Little Ships in Concert (18th May, 5:30pm) Following a weekend of live music, funfair and other entertainment, there will be a world-premiere performance featuring over 200 boats sounding bells, whistles, foghorns, plus a choir, musicians, and a WWII air raid siren.
The Little Ships Film Festival at The Granville Theatre (19th, 20th and 21st May, 7pm).
Re-enactors & Exhibitions at Ramsgate Tunnels, showcasing personal stories from Operation Dynamo.
Church services, military parades, and special exhibitions, honouring Ramsgate’s vital role in the Second World War. The parade on Tuesday 20th will be followed by a short offshore air display with the only surviving airworthy Fairey Swordfish biplane.
To pay homage to the town’s recognised efforts when the soldiers returned to Ramsgate back in May 1940, the town is once again rallying together in true ‘Dunkirk Spirit’, with various organisations including Royal Temple Yacht Club, Ramsgate Tunnels, The Ramsgate Society, and Ramsgate Town Council, joining forces to deliver an event expected to attract thousands to the south coast town.
John Walker, Chair of The Ramsgate Society, said, “This historic gathering of Dunkirk Little Ships will be a huge draw for both local residents and visitors alike.”
For full event details, visit https://www.visitramsgate.co.uk/operation-dynamo/