HMS Amphitrite was a 24-gun Porcupine-class sixth-rate post ship of the Royal Navy, launched on 28 May 1778 from Deptford Dockyard. Constructed under the supervision of Master Shipwright Adam Hayes, she was built at a cost of approximately £12,738, including fitting out and coppering. The vessel measured in accordance with her class, designed for versatility and speed, serving primarily during the American Revolution in roles that included protecting trade and engaging privateers. Commissioned in July 1778 under Captain Thomas Gaborian, Amphitrite initially operated off the Downs, where she captured the French privateer Agneau and shared in the captures of additional privateers such as Dunkerque and Prince de Robcq. She also captured several small American merchant vessels, notably the brig Kitty and the ship Jolly Tar in early 1780, as part of her contribution to the economic war efforts. In 1780, the ship's command transferred to Captain Robert Biggs, under whom she sailed to North America and joined Admiral Graves’s squadron. She participated in various actions, including the capture of the brig Adventure and the schooner Neptune. Notably, Amphitrite shared in the capture of the frigate Belisarius off Salem in 1781, which was subsequently taken into British service before being sold in 1783. Throughout her North American service, Amphitrite was active in intercepting French reinforcements, capturing multiple vessels such as the schooner Betsey, brigs Sally and Peggy, and privateers like Franklin. Following the American Revolution, she returned to Britain and was paid off in January 1784. After repairs, she was recommissioned in 1793 at the outbreak of the French Revolutionary Wars, under Captain John Child Purvis. Her service included deployment on the Toulon station with Vice Admiral Hood. Tragically, Amphitrite was wrecked on 30 January 1794 after striking an uncharted shoal while entering Leghorn harbor. Despite efforts to save her, she was abandoned, and a court martial subsequently acquitted Captain Hunt of blame. Her service history highlights her role in maritime combat, trade protection, and the broader naval conflicts of her 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.