HMS Peterel was a six-gun Alert-class packet brig built for the Royal Navy in the 1830s, exemplifying the design and naval technology of that period. The vessel measured 95 feet 1 inch (29.0 meters) in length overall at the gundeck and 75 feet (22.9 meters) along the keel, with a beam of 30 feet 3 inches (9.2 meters). Her draft was 10 feet 11 inches (3.3 meters), and she had a hold depth of 14 feet 9 inches (4.5 meters). The brig's tonnage was recorded at 359 tons burthen, indicating a relatively modest size suitable for dispatch and patrol duties. Originally, HMS Peterel was armed with a combination of a pair of 6-pounder cannons and four 12-pounder carronades, reflecting her role as a fast, lightly armed vessel for communication and patrol missions. Later configurations upgraded her armament to either six 32-pounder or eight 18-pounder guns, enhancing her firepower for combat and defense. Constructed at Pembroke Dockyard, Wales, HMS Peterel was ordered on 14 April 1836, laid down in April 1837, and launched on 23 May 1838. She was completed at Plymouth Dockyard by 3 October 1838 and commissioned earlier that year on 18 August. As the third ship to bear the name, HMS Peterel served during a period of technological transition in the Royal Navy, emphasizing speed and agility. Though specific service details and notable events are not provided in the source, her design and armament suggest she played a role in patrol, dispatch, and escort duties, contributing to the Royal Navy's reach during the 1830s. Her construction and deployment reflect the importance of versatile, fast vessels in maintaining maritime security and communication across the British Empire during the early Victorian era.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.