Traditional wooden boat repair services

Every boat that comes through our doors at Harleyford Marina gets the same attention, whether it's a small repair or a complete rebuild. Have a look at what we offer and the work we've done.

JOINERY

BESPOKE RESTORATION

ANNUAL MAINTENANCE

PAINT & VARNISH

CAULKING

DUNKIRK LITTLE SHIPS

What we offer

Yacht galley kitchen with shiny wooden cabinets

Bespoke Projects

Every boat is different, and some jobs don't fit neatly into a category. Whether it's a one-off build, a bespoke fitting, or something a little out of the ordinary, bring us the brief and we'll tell you honestly what's possible. Chris and Malcolm enjoy a challenge, and some of their most rewarding work has started with the words "I've got an unusual one for you."

Wooden boat DEENAR with flags docked by green trees

Dunkirk Little Ships

These vessels carry a history that deserves to be preserved properly. We have personally restored registered Dunkirk Little Ships, are members of the ADLS, and attended the 85th-anniversary crossing in 2025. If you own a registered vessel and are looking for a restoration partner who understands the significance of what you hold, we'd be glad to hear from you.

Annual & Seasonal Maintenance

Keeping a classic wooden boat in good shape is an ongoing commitment, and it's one we take seriously. From spring commissioning to winter lay-up, we'll keep your vessel maintained, protected, and ready for the water. Regular customers also benefit from a team that already knows their boat inside and out, so nothing gets missed.

Varnished wooden boat deck with chrome fittings

Repair & Restoration,
Paint & Varnish

From hull caulking and plank replacement to a full paint and varnish finish, we handle the complete spectrum of wooden boat repair and restoration. We use traditional techniques throughout, and we'll always tell you what we find, even if it means the job is bigger than first anticipated. Your boat deserves honesty as much as it deserves good craftsmanship.

Not sure what your boat needs?

We're happy to take a look and give you honest advice.

Get in touch

FEATURED CASE STUDY

Our Work

Classic wooden motorboat named Grantham, London

Quisisana - Dunkirk Little Ship restoration

C&M Traditional Boat Repairs undertook the full restoration of Quisisana, a 30ft 1927 Thornycroft Dunkirk Little Ship, best known for rescuing Coldstream Guards during the 1940 evacuation.

When the project came to us, she had been stripped back to a bare hull by her previous owner, with significant structural work still unfinished. Commissioned by her new owner, we were tasked with completing the restoration, preserving her historical character while ensuring she could serve as a practical, modern cruising vessel.

Our prior experience with similar vessels, including Nydia, Quisisana’s sister ship, uniquely positioned us for this historically sensitive and technically demanding project.

The restoration combined traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering. We completed the hull’s carvel planking using larch from the Sandringham estate, installed laminated oak deck beams, teak decking, and a mahogany superstructure finished with multiple coats of varnish.

A 1950s-style wheelhouse was reconstructed, and modern navigation and electrical systems were seamlessly concealed behind period-authentic woodwork. Twin 38hp Beta Marine diesel engines were installed for dependable operation, and all electrical, plumbing, and fuel systems were custom-fabricated to integrate discreetly within the traditional design.

The interior reflected a 1930s gentleman’s club aesthetic, featuring St James’ red leather upholstery, rich mahogany panelling, and bespoke details like a repurposed 1920s theatre helm seat. Modern conveniences - including an induction hob, fridge, and even an air fryer - were hidden behind handcrafted cabinetry to maintain the historical ambience.

The project spanned over two years and surpassed £250,000, reflecting both our commitment to uncompromising quality and the owner’s dedication to preserving maritime heritage.