More about The HMS Fly

The HMS Fly was a sailing ship that was commissioned in 1831 as part of the British Royal Navy’s exploration and surveying efforts. It was a 104-foot long vessel with a displacement of around 385 tons and was built for speed and maneuverability. The ship was named after the insect, fly, in reference to its small size and quick movements on the water. The design of the HMS Fly was based on the popular cutter rig, which allowed for a larger sail area and faster speeds. This was crucial for the ship’s role in exploration and mapping, as it needed to cover vast distances in a relatively short amount of time.

The HMS Fly was a three-masted ship with a square rig, meaning that it had square-shaped sails attached to the masts. This rigging allowed the ship to sail closely into the wind, making it ideal for navigating through narrow channels and shallow waters. The ship was also equipped with a bowsprit, which extended beyond the bow and provided extra space for sails and rigging. This feature, along with the cutter rig, gave the HMS Fly a distinctive appearance and made it easily recognizable on the water.

One of the most notable features of the HMS Fly was its advanced surveying equipment. The ship was equipped with the latest technology such as a theodolite, a surveyor’s tool used for measuring angles, and a chronometer, a precise timekeeping device that was essential for accurate navigation. These tools, along with skilled and experienced crew members, allowed the HMS Fly to produce highly detailed and accurate maps of uncharted territories.

The HMS Fly was also armed with a variety of cannons, making it a formidable warship in addition to its exploration capabilities. It had six 12-pounder carronades, which were short-barreled cannons that were designed for close-range combat. The ship also had two long guns on its bow and stern, which could be used for long-range attacks. These weapons were necessary for protection against potential threats during exploration voyages.

Throughout its service, the HMS Fly undertook several significant expeditions, including mapping the coast of Australia, surveying the coast of New Guinea, and exploring the waters of the Torres Strait. It also played a crucial role in the colonization of Australia by transporting supplies and personnel to the new settlements. The ship’s speed, maneuverability, and advanced equipment made it a highly successful vessel in its exploratory and military missions.

Unfortunately, the HMS Fly met its end in 1841 when it ran aground on a reef in Fiji. Despite efforts to salvage the ship, it was deemed irreparable and was eventually abandoned. However, the legacy of the HMS Fly lives on through its contributions to the exploration and mapping of new territories and its significant role in the British Royal Navy.