Ramsgate’s Royal Harbour is celebrating a remarkable event as up to 70 Dunkirk Little Ships gather to mark the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo.
The historic flotilla honours the courageous efforts of those who helped rescue 338,000 allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk between May 26 and June 4, 1940: a pivotal moment in World War II that remains a powerful reminder of Ramsgate’s wartime efforts, when local mariners played a crucial role, most famously The Medway Queen Crew.
This plucky paddle steamer, affectionately known as the Heroine of Dunkirk, made an incredible seven trips to Dunkirk, rescuing 7,000 troops alone, even shooting down three German planes in the process.
This courageous vessel endures more than any other as a symbol of resilience, unity, and stirs within us all the determination to fight on against all odds.
The Ramsgate Military & Heritage Trail highlights the extraordinary bravery of both military personnel and civilians who contributed to the war effort through plaques and walking trails, shedding light on lesser-known heroes who endured bombings and contributed to the town’s during both World Wars.
Countless Ramsgate residents volunteered their boats for the rescue mission, braving enemy fire and treacherous waters to save lives and the unmissable spectacle of their return to the Royal Inner Harbour began on Friday, May 16th.
In and around the Royal Harbour, a vibrant festival of events will celebrate the occasion including:
- Parade on Tuesday 20th May followed by a short offshore air display with the only surviving airworthy Fairey Swordfish biplane
- The Little Ships Film Festival at The Granville Theatre (19th, 20th and 21st May, 7pm)
The highlight of the programme will be an emotional reenactment of the Miracle of Dunkirk, as the boats set sail once more for Dunkirk at 6am on Wednesday, May 21st, escorted by Royal Navy, Estuary Services, and RNLI vessels.
The boats will return once more to Ramsgate on May 26th, from 4pm, where celebrations will culminate with a hero’s welcome, complete with a piper, standard bearers, and patriotic crowds.
Kevin Finn, Commodore of the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships said, “The Return to Dunkirk in May 2025 presents a unique opportunity to join the skippers and crew of these historic vessels in celebrating the enduring legacy of the remaining Little Ships”.
Various local organisations including Royal Temple Yacht Club, Ramsgate Tunnels, The Ramsgate Society, and Ramsgate Town Council, will be joining forces to deliver an event expected to encourage thousands to the south coast town and raise a toast to that indomitable Dunkirk Spirit.
For a full itinerary of event details happening from 16th to 26th May, 2025 please visit https://www.visitramsgate.co.uk/operation-dynamo/
