Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:33:52-1:34:30

How gun decks determined flag accommodation

A fifth-rate commodore could displace the captain, while a fourth or third rate had another deck of cabins that could accommodate an admiral and staff.

Age Of SailFourth RatesNaval CommandShipboard Life
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

Did an admiral or commodore displace a ship's captain, or were special flag cabins provided?

Short answer

On a fifth rate the captain could be displaced, while fourth and third rates had enough deck space for separate flag accommodation.

Notes

Command accommodation depended on the vertical space created by the ship's gun decks. A fifth rate had limited cabin space, so embarking a commodore could force the captain out of the usual quarters. A fourth rate's second deck created room for a separate flag cabin. Third rates likewise had enough depth and internal volume to carry an admiral without the same displacement problem.