Sundowner is a historically significant motor yacht constructed in 1912, originally serving as an Admiralty steam pinnace before being acquired and transformed into a private vessel by Charles and Sylvia Lightoller in 1929. The hull was recovered from Conyer Creek, east of the River Medway, and the yacht was extensively modified. She was initially 52 feet (16 meters) in length, featuring a ketch rig with two masts, jib, mainsail, mizzen, and mizzen staysail. The hull was later extended to 58 feet (18 meters), and she was powered by a 60-horsepower Parsons petrol-paraffin 4-stroke engine, capable of reaching speeds up to 8 knots (15 km/h). Launched on 28 June 1930, Sundowner underwent trials on the Thames before embarking on her first voyage to France. During her early years, she cruised along the northern coast of Europe and participated in various international competitions. In 1936, her engine was upgraded to a 72 hp Gleniffer diesel, boosting her speed by two knots. Her most notable service occurred during World War II when, in 1940, she was requisitioned by the Admiralty for the Dunkirk evacuation. At age 66, Charles Lightoller, a former second officer of Titanic, volunteered to command her, accompanied by his son and an 18-year-old Sea Scout. Sundowner participated in the perilous evacuation, rescuing soldiers from Dunkirk and transporting 130 men back to Ramsgate under enemy fire, demonstrating her crucial role in one of history’s most famous maritime operations. After the war, Sundowner served as a coastal patrol vessel before returning to private use. She remained in Lightoller family ownership until 1952, continuing to cruise and participate in commemorative events, including the 25th and 50th anniversaries of Dunkirk. Restored in 1990 for the 50th anniversary, she later participated in the 60th anniversary flotilla and the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant in 2012. As of September 2022, Sundowner is under restoration at Dennett’s Shipbuilders, with efforts ongoing to preserve her as a museum ship and maritime relic, highlighting her enduring historical and maritime significance.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.