Sailing practice, diplomatic voyages, and rescue seamanship

After Ferret, Farragut continued seeking sailing experience aboard Greyhound and Experiment. He was selected for Brandywine's ceremonial voyage because his family connections reached back to the American Revolution. In France, the deployment offered exposure to shipyards and foreign ship design before further Mediterranean service. Years as a first lieutenant on larger vessels culminated in command of the sloop Erie, whose assistance role required helping ships in distress without sacrificing his own vessel in heavy weather.