HMS Victory Warship

Full Specifications

HMS Victory: Britain Flagship of the Age of Sail

HMS Victory remains one of the most recognized warships in naval history. Best known as Admiral Horatio Nelson flagship at the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar, the first rate ship of the line symbolizes the height of wooden sailing warship design in the Age of Sail. Built for line of battle engagements, HMS Victory carried heavy broadside firepower designed to break enemy fleets at close range.

Commissioned into the Royal Navy in 1778, the vessel saw combat during the American War of Independence, the French Revolutionary Wars, and the Napoleonic Wars. Today, it remains a commissioned warship and serves as a museum ship in Portsmouth, UK.

Manufacturer

HMS Victory was built at Chatham Dockyard in Kent, England. Designed by naval architect Sir Thomas Slade, she was constructed using oak timbers, with copper sheathing later added to protect the hull from marine growth. The ship reflects 18th century British naval engineering focused on durability, heavy armament, and fleet dominance.

Speed and Range

Powered entirely by sail across three masts, HMS Victory could reach speeds of approximately 8 to 11 knots depending on wind conditions. Range was effectively unlimited, constrained mainly by food, water, and crew endurance rather than fuel. The vessel could remain at sea for months during sustained operations.

Cost/Price

Original construction cost was approximately 63,000 British pounds in the 18th century, equivalent to tens of millions of dollars today when adjusted for inflation and material value. Maintenance and periodic refits significantly added to lifetime costs.