HMS Unicorn, Scotland’s oldest ship and the fourth oldest vessel in the world, has launched a major fundraising campaign to raise over £1 million and secure her future in Dundee.

Built in 1824, HMS Unicorn is the most original historic ship still afloat, with over 95% of her original materials intact. A cherished part of Dundee’s waterfront for decades, she is structurally at risk and requires urgent intervention to secure her long-term future.

The “Lead the Lift” campaign, launched at Dundee’s Apex Hotel on Friday 26th September, aims to raise over £1 million over the next year to elevate HMS Unicorn into a permanent cradle, stabilise her structure, and redevelop the surrounding site into a world-class maritime heritage destination and centre for learning that will put both the ship and Dundee on the global stage.

The campaign will secure the physical survival of the ship, transform her into an inclusive and accessible space for the community, and champion engineering innovation through sustainable design and skilled craftsmanship.

Dr Andrew Tibbs, Chief Executive of the Unicorn Preservation Society, said: “HMS Unicorn is an internationally important treasure. Lead the Lift is about much more than preservation – it is about securing her survival, transforming her dockside home, and creating new opportunities for education, skills, and community connection. We are inviting individuals, businesses, and partners to join us in this once-in-a-generation project.”

The campaign also seeks to honour HMS Unicorn’s proud naval heritage, preserving and sharing the stories of service and tradition she represents, including her years as a training vessel for the WRNS. To safeguard this legacy for future generations, the Unicorn Preservation Society is inviting supporters, businesses, and the wider community to contribute to the Lead the Lift appeal. Every donation plays a vital role in securing HMS Unicorn’s future as a national treasure and cornerstone of Dundee’s waterfront.

UPS Trustees and their Chairman, Christine Purdy, said: “We would like to thank all those donors most sincerely, and welcome new donors who would like to join us. Both we and the staff are all extraordinarily proud of our work with the Unicorn Preservation Society. It is a great responsibility, but the Lead the Lift Campaign is a major step in ensuring a safe, permanent home for this historical naval treasure and landmark visitor attraction for Dundee.”

For more information, contact HMS Unicorn Marketing and Communications Officer Natasha Clarkson via email: natashac@hmsunicorn.org.uk.
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To learn more, donate, or join Shipmates, visit www.hmsunicorn.org.uk