HMS Basilisk (1695) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids History |
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|---|---|
 England |
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| Name | HMS Basilisk |
| Ordered | 9 January 1695 |
| Builder | William Redding, Wapping |
| Launched | 4 May 1695 |
| Commissioned | 1695 |
| Out of service | 21 January 1729 |
| Fate | Broken up, Deptford Dockyard, 1729 |
| General characteristics | |
| Class and type | 6-gun Serpent-class bomb vessel |
| Tons burthen | 163 63⁄94 (bm) |
| Length |
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| Beam | 23 ft 2 in (7.1 m) |
| Depth of hold | 10 ft 2 in (3.1 m) |
| Propulsion | Sail |
| Sail plan | Ketch-rigged |
| Complement | 30 |
| Armament |
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HMS Basilisk was a special kind of ship called a Serpent-class bomb vessel. It was built for the Royal Navy in England in 1695. Bomb vessels were like floating cannons, designed to attack enemy ports from the sea. Basilisk was quite important, serving in big wars and even exploring new places.
Contents
What Was a Bomb Vessel?
A bomb vessel was a unique type of warship. Its main job was to fire large bombs at targets on land. These ships were very strong to handle the recoil from their powerful weapons. They were often used to attack enemy forts or cities along the coast.
The Serpent-class Ships
HMS Basilisk was one of ten ships in the Serpent class. All these ships were ordered in 1695. They were built to help the English army attack ports during wars. Basilisk was the biggest ship in its class. It weighed about 163 tonnes.
Building the Basilisk
The ship was built by William Redding in a place called Wapping, near London. It was launched on May 4, 1695. This means it was put into the water for the first time. Soon after, it was ready for duty with the Royal Navy.
Adventures and Battles
HMS Basilisk had a long and busy career. It took part in several important events during its time at sea.
The Nine Years' War
Early in its life, Basilisk joined Admiral John Berkeley's fleet. This was during the Nine Years' War (1688–1697). This war involved many European countries. Ships like Basilisk played a key role in attacking enemy coastal towns.
Exploring the St Lawrence River
Later, Basilisk was used as an exploration ship. It sailed along the St Lawrence River. This river is in North America, in what is now Canada. Exploring new areas was very important for mapping and understanding the world.
The Battle of Cape Passaro
One of Basilisk's most famous moments was at the Battle of Cape Passaro. This battle happened in 1718. It was fought off the coast of Sicily, an island in Italy. The British fleet won a big victory against the Spanish navy. Basilisk was part of the winning British forces.
End of Service
HMS Basilisk served the Royal Navy for many years. It was the last ship left from its class. All nine of its sister ships had either been lost or taken apart. Basilisk was finally taken out of service on January 21, 1729. It was then broken up at Deptford Dockyard. This means the ship was taken apart for its materials.
