Step aboard the Lucy Lavers, a restored 1939 lifeboat, to navigate Wells-next-the-Sea’s historic harbor. Discover its Dunkirk legacy, local fishing heritage, and abundant coastal wildlife on an intimate 1.5-hour boat tour.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the tour is seated and gentle; basic mobility needed for boarding.
Wildlife
History
The Lucy Lavers served as a lifeboat during the Dunkirk evacuation and twice as Wells Harbour’s rescue vessel before being restored by Rescue Wooden Boats.
Conservation
Rescue Wooden Boats operates with a focus on preserving maritime heritage and supporting local wildlife habitats around Wells Harbour.
Rescue Wooden Boats
Step aboard the Lucy Lavers, a restored 1939 lifeboat, to navigate Wells-next-the-Sea’s historic harbor. Discover its Dunkirk legacy, local fishing heritage, and abundant coastal wildlife on an intimate 1.5-hour boat tour.
Rescue Wooden Boats is a heritage boat operator based in Wells-next-the-Sea, England. The business operates the Lucy Lavers, a restored 1939 lifeboat and Dunkirk Little Ship. Rescue Wooden Boats offers Private Charter and Heritage Tours aboard the Lucy Lavers that explore Wells Harbour, local fishing traditions and the vessel’s historic Dunkirk service.
Tours depart from Wells Harbour and take passengers along the coastline to view wildlife, beach huts, and the seaward approaches. On Heritage Tours aboard the Lucy Lavers, visitors learn about the boat’s restoration, her service in 1939 including Dunkirk evacuation connections, and the maritime history of the area. Private Charters allow groups to book the vessel for tailored trips around the harbour and nearby coastline.
The company focuses on heritage experiences delivered from a restored lifeboat, combining maritime history with coastal scenery. The Lucy Lavers’ 1939 construction and restoration make her an authentic example of period lifeboat design. Rescue Wooden Boats’ excursions emphasize first-hand access to Wells Harbour and views of the coastline rather than large-scale commercial operations.
Rescue Wooden Boats is appropriate for visitors interested in maritime history, wildlife spotting, and coastal landscapes. Trips highlight local fishing culture and harbour features, offering opportunities to see beach huts, harbour activity, and local wildlife from the water. Information on schedules, availability and booking is provided directly by Rescue Wooden Boats for each trip.
Location
Wells-next-the-Sea, England
Harbour-based departures
Vessel
Lucy Lavers (1939)
Restored lifeboat and Dunkirk Little Ship
Tours Offered
Private Charter & Heritage Tours
Heritage boat experiences
Highlights
Wildlife & Coastal Views
Views of beach huts and coastline
Reserve a Private Charter or join a Heritage Tour to see Wells Harbour, wildlife, beach huts and coastline from a restored 1939 lifeboat.
Dress for Wind and Splash
Bring a windproof and splash-resistant layer—even in summer, conditions on the water can be chilly and damp.
Arrive Early
Reach the Tugboat Yard at least 15 minutes before departure to navigate parking and boarding smoothly.
Prepare for Boarding
Expect a short walk on a pontoon ramp and a step down into the lifeboat; wear sensible shoes for safe boarding.
Respect the Non-Smoking Policy
Smoking is not permitted on board to ensure comfort and safety for all passengers.
Windproof Jacket
Protects you from wind and sea spray during the tour.
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Comfortable Closed-Toe Shoes
Ensures safe footing on docks and boarding ramps.
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Binoculars
Enhances viewing of wildlife and distant harbour details.
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Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment to changing temperatures on the water.
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