HMS Investigator was a wooden paddle survey vessel constructed for the Royal Navy, primarily designed for reconnaissance and exploration purposes. Laid down on June 15, 1861, at Deptford, she was launched on November 16 of the same year. The vessel's construction featured a traditional wooden hull complemented by paddle propulsion, suitable for navigating the rivers and coastal regions of West Africa. Throughout her service, Investigator was commanded by several notable officers. Initially, Lieutenant Benjamin Langlois Lefroy led the vessel off the west coast of Africa. Her operational history includes an expedition up the River Niger during August to October 1864, under the command of Lieutenant Commander William Digby Dolben, whose leadership was notable until his tragic drowning on September 1, 1863, while crossing the bar of Lagos in a small gig. This incident underscored the perils faced by naval survey vessels operating in challenging riverine environments. After Dolben's death, command passed to Lieutenant Charles Knowles, later Vice Admiral Sir Charles Knowles, 4th baronet. Under his leadership, Investigator conducted further surveying activities, establishing contact with local tribes along the Niger River. In 1867, the vessel encountered significant challenges when she ran aground in the Niger River and was attacked by hostile local inhabitants armed with cannon. During this incident, two crew members were killed, and the vessel sustained severe damage. Investigator was refloated after 11 days and subsequently taken to Lagos, where she was repaired. Her service concluded when she was sold to local authorities in Lagos in 1869. Investigator’s operational history highlights her role in exploring and surveying parts of West Africa, notably contributing to geographical and cultural knowledge of the Niger River region. Her career was marked by significant events, including navigation hazards, conflict with local populations, and her eventual transfer to local authorities, reflecting her importance in maritime exploration during the mid-19th century.

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