HMS Royal James was a prominent 70-gun second-rate ship of the line built for the navy of the Commonwealth of England, launched in 1658 at Woolwich Dockyard. Originally named the Richard in honor of Richard Cromwell, the ship was constructed under the direction of Master Shipwright Christopher Pett. The vessel measured significant dimensions, with a series of gunports arranged on three decks: the lower deck with 13 pairs of gunports, the middle deck with 13 pairs, and the upper deck with 10 pairs. Initially armed with 70 guns, her armament was expanded by 1664 to include 78 guns, comprising 12 cannon-of-seven (42-pounders), demi-cannon, culverins, and demi-culverins. Following the political transition and the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, the ship was incorporated into the Royal Navy and renamed HMS Royal James on 23 May 1660. Her designation was upgraded to a first-rate ship of the line, which involved significant modifications: she was fitted with additional gunports—two pairs on the upper deck, seven pairs on the quarterdeck, two pairs on the forecastle, and two pairs on the poop—raising her total armament to 82 guns. Her armament was further reinforced with additional demi-cannon and demi-culverins, enhancing her firepower. HMS Royal James played a vital role in the Second Dutch War, serving as the flagship for Prince Rupert. She participated in key naval battles, including the Battle of Lowestoft in 1665, the Four Days Battle in 1666, and the St James's Day Fight later that year. Her combat service was notable, reflecting her status as a formidable warship of her era. During the raid on the Medway in 1667, she was sunk intentionally to avoid capture, and her above-water parts were subsequently burned by Dutch fireships. Her service record highlights her significance in 17th-century naval warfare and her contribution to England's naval power during a pivotal period.

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