Judge Adam Partington commissioned the construction of Jockette II in 1938 from Watercraft of East Molesey. Designed as a sturdy yet modestly sized Thames cruiser, Judge Partington took a keen personal interest in her build. He enjoyed only two summers with the vessel before the outbreak of World War II.

Judge Partington navigated Jockette II downriver to Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, where she was called upon to participate in the Dunkirk evacuation. Demonstrating generosity, Judge Partington ensured the vessel was well-stocked with beer and provisions before dispatching her to Ramsgate to be handed over to the Royal Navy.

During the Dunkirk operation, the sea conditions were favourable, and Jockette II survived the ordeal. She was among the last vessels to depart Dunkirk and was subsequently abandoned in the Channel. The Royal Navy later towed her back to Ramsgate.

Ricky Latham, a young Royal Navy midshipman, was assigned command of Jockette II. His crew included Bruce, a 6ft 2in ex-public school seaman, and Jimmy, a Petty Officer engineer experienced in deep-sea steam but less familiar with small cruisers powered by Morris Navigator petrol engines. Despite this, Jimmy proved invaluable as a cook. Latham recalled Jockette II as "a good little boat, strong—able to take you anywhere—rolling somewhat in rough seas, but always reliable to bring you home."

Following Dunkirk, Jockette II was commissioned under the Nore Command and stationed at Lowestoft on the North-East coast of Suffolk. She served as a contraband control patrol boat, equipped with a gun mounted on her wheelhouse roof and painted in battleship grey. The vessel remained in active service until 1944, after which she was returned to her original owner, bearing some war scars but remaining in good condition.

In 1964, Joan and Arthur Gingell acquired Jockette II. In January 1965, they discovered her distinguished history as one of the brave fleet of Little Ships involved in the Dunkirk evacuation. They were subsequently invited to participate in the 25th anniversary commemoration of the British Expeditionary Force withdrawal at Dunkirk.

As a founding member of the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships, Jockette II has participated in all commemorative returns, weather permitting, except in 1985 when vandalism caused fire damage to her wheelhouse and stern deck, preventing timely repairs.

Following Arthur Gingell’s passing, his widow Joan has made significant financial sacrifices to maintain Jockette II. Her daughter Sandra, son-in-law, and grandson James have also contributed considerable effort to preserve this historic vessel. Joan hopes that Jockette II will remain in the family for many years and be passed on to future generations.

Currently, Jockette II spends her summers cruising leisurely on the Thames. She is moored at Staines during the summer months and overwinters at Ripley, Surrey, on the River Wey, where she undergoes her annual refit.