Decision details

May 2025 marks the 85th Anniversary of Operation Dynamo. Due to the postponement of the last crossing, it is proposed to be the largest crossing since the original operation in 1940. 60+ Dunkirk little ships will be making the crossing on 21 May 2025 with an additional 60+ supporter vessels. As tradition the vessels are planning on sailing from Ramsgate Royal Harbour on this date, arriving 10 hours later (dependent on weather) in Dunkirk.

The Dunkirk little ships will arrive before the initial sailing date and will likely be berthed within the inner marina creating a spectacle for the public. There will be options to allow the public onto certain vessels to look around. The event is set to gain large amount of media attention, as usual, and is a great opportunity for Ramsgate Royal harbour to play its part in the celebration.

The Leader agreed that:

1.  Berthing fees and charges for any authentic Dunkirk little ships part of the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships’ be waived for the weekend before and after the 85th Anniversary event. This amount is expected to be approximately £16,000;

2.  Berthing fees for any registered charity vessel attending the 85th Anniversary event be waived for the weekend before or after the event. This is expected to be approx. £2,000.

The memorial crossing for operation Dynamo will be a time of remembrance and charging authentic vessels actively taking part in the event would not be appropriate.

Charging the vessels full berthing fees as per Ramsgate Royal Harbour fees and charges for visiting vessels or charging the vessels at the 25% reduced rate published for charity vessels. Both of these options were reviewed but it was felt due to the level of publicity of the event and the reason for the event going ahead this would not be appropriate.