The vessel Quisisana has retained its original name since being built by Thornycroft at Hampton-on-Thames in 1927. The name is derived from a district in Malta, meaning "quiet place." It is speculated that Cecil Yates, the first owner, may have had a connection to Malta, although the vessel's size—30 feet in length with a 2 feet 6 inches draft—made travel to Malta impractical.

Quisisana was well-suited for operations such as evacuating troops from the beach at La Panne in 1940. Equipped with two 'Handy Billy' engines, she was capable of crossing the English Channel under calm conditions and successfully returned without major damage. Ironically, the vessel later suffered deterioration not from combat but from prolonged inactivity and storage on land. Being carvel-built, her planks separated during a ten-year period ashore, necessitating a major overhaul before returning to the water.

Nicholas Lidiard, a boat builder with a strong interest in Quisisana and her history, undertook the restoration. The refurbishment included extensive re-planking of the hull and installation of new engines. Despite the repairs, the oak frames and keel remain robust and are expected to last another fifty years. A plaque commemorating Quisisana's service at Dunkirk is displayed on her bulkhead.

Following restoration, Nicholas Lidiard facilitated Quisisana's membership in the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships (ADLS). The late Gerry Borsboom further renovated the vessel, earning the Best Amateur Restoration award at the Thames Traditional Boat Rally shortly before his passing. Currently owned by Martin Lowe, Quisisana, affectionately known as "Quisi," continues to be an active participant in ADLS events.