The legendary Amazone, a storied luxury yacht once owned by Sir Winston Churchill, is poised to undergo a remarkable transformation at the British Pendennis shipyard in Falmouth, Cornwall. With a history steeped in maritime glory and wartime valor, the restoration of Churchill’s cherished vessel represents a poignant endeavor to return it to its former grandeur.
Constructed in 1936 by British shipbuilding firm Thornycroft, the 128-foot (38.9-meter) Amazone was originally delivered to Churchill during his tenure as First Lord of the Admiralty. Beyond serving as his personal retreat, the yacht played a pivotal role during the Second World War, aiding in the repatriation of Allied troops during the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940.
After two decades of dormancy as a houseboat on the Seine in France, the classic vessel embarked on a journey of renewal. Loaded onto the 214M DYT semi-submersible Yacht Servant, it was ferried from Le Havre to Falmouth and then transported to Pendennis, a renowned custom superyacht builder and refit shipyard, where a team of experts awaits to embark on its restoration journey.
The ambitious project is the brainchild of Nicholas Edmiston and William Collier of classic yacht experts G.L. Watson & Co., in collaboration with Sevenstar Yacht Transport. Renowned for their expertise in maritime restoration, the duo has previously undertaken remarkable rebuilds, including Blue Bird, Nahlin, Malahne, and Cacouna.
“This is a complex project that demands strong partnerships and unwavering dedication,” remarked William Collier. “Mike Herrebrugh has been an invaluable partner, and this marks our third successful collaboration with Sevenstar in the last 12 months.”
The tri-deck Amazone, while ordered by Churchill himself, remained the property of the British government throughout its illustrious tenure. With its timeless design and remarkable features, including a spacious living area of 650 square meters and luxurious guest suites, the yacht remains an icon of maritime elegance.
Despite its age, the Amazone boasts impressive amenities, including a large Jacuzzi on the top deck and a sunbathing area. Powered by twin 700hp Cummins diesel engines, it offers a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 11 knots, ensuring both performance and comfort on the open seas.
The forthcoming restoration aims to preserve the vessel’s rich heritage while ensuring its seaworthiness for future voyages. As the Amazone undergoes its transformation, it serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Sir Winston Churchill and the timeless allure of British yachting history.
