Landing Craft Foxtrot 8

Originally designated as Landing Craft Assault (Type 2) (LCA(ii)), these vessels were soon redesignated Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVP). They were attached to Landing Platform Dock ships HMS Intrepid and HMS Fearless.

Foxtrot 8 (F8) was one of four vessels of its type carried on board HMS Fearless, which was sent to the South Atlantic during the Falklands conflict in 1982. With her sister craft, Foxtrot 8 played a major part in landing Royal Marine and Paratroop contingents on the Falkland Islands.

We discovered and bought her in 1994 from Hughes Marine Services (HMS), a boat salvage yard.

The craft is powered by two diesel engines. The propellers are in recesses at the stern allowing the craft to be beached without snagging in sand and gravel.

In November 2018, a contract was awarded to Landau UK, who rebuilt and restored her. F8 is now afloat and in full working order. Foxtrot 8’s restoration is a project funded by the Chancellor using LIBOR funds.

We now offer charters and ticketed trips around the harbour on Foxtrot 8. See our What’s On and Charters and Hire pages to find out more.

#F8 PRIDE PROJECT 

 In 2025, the UK marks 25 years since the ban on LGBTQ+ people serving openly in the Armed Forces was lifted. Until 2000, being openly lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender in the military was grounds for dismissal. LGBTQ+ personnel faced intrusive investigations, discharge without honours, and the loss of medals, pensions, and dignity. Despite this, many served with courage and distinction, forced to hide who they were to protect their careers, safety, and fellow service members. 

Landing Craft F8 is a powerful piece of Falklands history – a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and service. This year, to mark the 25th anniversary of the lifting of the ban and as Portsmouth hosts UK Pride, F8 becomes a floating tribute to all who served, including those forced to serve in silence. 

In partnership with Fighting With Pride, a charity led by LGBTQ+ veterans, F8 is wrapped in a temporary rainbow design by artist Angela Chick. Inspired by the original 8-colour Pride flag and military symbolism, the design adds to – not replaces – the vessel’s history. It honours those excluded from recognition and sparks reflection on progress, remembrance, and inclusion within the military. This ensures no veteran is erased from their own story.