Wairakei II

Fred Shoesmith of Glasgow commissioned the construction of Wairakei II at James A. Silver's renowned shipyard in Rosneath, located on the River Clyde in Scotland. The vessel was built in 1932 during the height of the Great Depression, a period marked by widespread unemployment in Britain and the United States, as well as significant political changes in Germany with the rise of the Nazi party.

Despite the challenging economic climate, yachting and the production of small motor cruisers experienced growth, providing employment opportunities in Britain. Designed by John Bain, Wairakei II was a superbly constructed yacht and represented an improvement over Shoesmith's earlier vessel, Brown Owl. The yacht was ketch-rigged, capable of sailing in favorable winds, but primarily powered by two Gleniffer petrol engines. In 1959, these were replaced by twin BMC Commodore diesel engines.

The yacht featured accommodation for seven people, arranged in three double cabins and one single cabin, along with ample deck space. Early in World War II, the Ministry of War Transport requisitioned Wairakei II, placing her under the command of Lieutenant Leyland. The vessel was outfitted with a machine gun mounted on the foredeck and rifle racks around the decks.

Wairakei II is listed among the "Little Ships" that participated in the Dunkirk evacuation, where she is credited with rescuing approximately 150 soldiers. At that time, Lloyd's Register of Yachts records her owner as Mr. F.G. Cox.

Following the war, the yacht passed through the ownership of eight individuals, some of whom operated her as a holiday charter vessel. In 2015, Wairakei II was featured on a series of stamps issued by Palau, commemorating the 75th anniversary of Operation Dynamo and celebrating the "Little Ships of Dunkirk."

Currently, Wairakei II is moored on the River Thames in London, serving as a distinguished example of vintage craftsmanship. She is maintained by Dennett Boat Builders and underwent a comprehensive refit in 2014, which involved redesigning the forward section to replace awkward, unusable spaces with an open-plan galley and dining area. This renovation balanced modern functionality with the preservation of the vessel's period charm.

Wairakei II remains active in the yachting community, regularly participating in events organized by the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships (ADLS), including recent commemorative returns.