Greta Returns to Dunkirk: A Landmark 85th Anniversary Crossing with Icom Radios

As a testament to the extraordinary power of civilian courage in the face of adversity, the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo saw a fleet of Dunkirk Little Ships make the historic journey from Ramsgate Harbour to the French coast. This commemorative voyage honoured the evacuation of over 338,000 allied soldiers from Dunkirk between May 26th and June 4th 1940 and included the Thames sailing barge Greta, a veteran of the original operation.

Built in 1892, Greta joined the flotilla of Dunkirk Little Ships returning to France to mark the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo. On May 21st 2025 over 70 other vessels departed from Ramsgate under Royal Navy escort, with RNLI support close by.

Skipper Steve Norris and his team of volunteers used a variety of Icom VHF marine radios for the journey allowing them to communicate with the other ships and support boats during both 8.5-hour crossings. The radios were particularly useful for adapting to the changing plans of the return trip which was postponed for several days due to bad weather.

Speaking of the journey, volunteer Crew Matt Harvey said, “The atmosphere was humble but proud - a flotilla not only commemorating the past but actively sailing in its honour. For those of us who maintain and sail these historic vessels the crossing was also a reminder: that these barges are not museum pieces. They’re living, breathing links to our past and they have stories yet to tell.”

Rather than returning to Ramsgate, Greta eventually headed to Whitstable where she is based for the summer charter season. This year also marks 25 years of Greta chartering from Whitstable with trips available for up to 12 people aboard.

To make an enquiry or book a trip aboard Greta, click here: www.greta1892.co.uk/book-online.

If you would like to make a contribution towards the ongoing maintenance and essential repairs, donations can be made here: Greta's PayPal Page.

For more information on Icom marine radio solutions, visit our Marine Radio Homepage.

You can also call us on 01227 741741 or email us at the address below.

Icom UK Sales - sales@icomuk.co.uk