Originally named Betty, the vessel was built in 1933 and first exhibited at the Motor Boat Exhibition at Olympia in October of that year. According to Yachting Monthly (November 1933), the Walton Yacht and Launch Works Ltd of Shepperton presented a 40-foot cruiser described as “one of the most interesting and sea-worthy boats at the show.” Featuring black enamelled topsides, a graceful bow, a counter stern with a well-rounded transom, and a bold sheer, this bridge-deck cruiser was noted for its distinctive appearance, reminiscent of the American 'fisherman' style. Designed by C.W. Burnard A.I.N.A, the vessel was intended for day cruising, fishing trips, or coastal cruising, with accommodation for four persons.

Initially based on the Thames, the vessel was requisitioned by the Admiralty in 1940. Alongside approximately 350 other “Little Ships,” she participated in the evacuation of over 338,000 troops from the beaches of Dunkirk. Following this, she was assigned to river patrol duties on the east coast at Harwich, where she was equipped with an Oerlikon gun mounted on her foredeck.

After World War II, the vessel was restored to private ownership and renamed Nimrod. Her home port for many years was Waldringfield on the River Deben, before being relocated to Woodbridge, where she fell into neglect. In 1970, boatbuilder Ian Brown of Rowhedge acquired and carefully restored the vessel for personal use. Apart from a slight lengthening of the wheelhouse, the original design was preserved. During this restoration, the vessel was renamed Nyula.

In 1976, Nyula was sold and moved to Chichester. She was subsequently purchased by the late ADLS Commodore Peter Packard, who was initially unaware of her Suffolk origins and Dunkirk service. Peter returned her to the River Deben and only discovered her Dunkirk history in 1985 following the release of Admiralty records, which identified her through her engine number. Under Peter Packard’s care, Nyula was regularly used and maintained for 25 years, ensuring her preservation.

In 2005, Nyula was acquired by her current owner, Alex Ramsey, who has undertaken gradual and substantial restoration work. Each winter is spent on maintenance at her home mooring in the Midlands, with annual spring voyages via Boston or the Humber Estuary to the East Coast and the Thames to attend ADLS events. Since 1985, Nyula has participated in every five-year Dunkirk crossing.

In 2016, Nyula returned to Dunkirk to feature in the film DUNKIRK. During the winter of 2017, Alex Ramsey constructed a new hollow mainmast and re-rigged the vessel to provide a degree of sailing capability.