Q&A ยท 1:07:47-1:09:09

Favorite third-rate ships of the line

The panel chooses HMS Africa for its independent fighting at Trafalgar and a surviving 74-gun ship for its exceptional longevity.

Question

What is the panel's favorite third-rate ship of the line?

Short answer

HMS Africa is Dr. Clarke's choice, while another panelist favors the exceptionally long-lived 74 whose stern survives at Greenwich.

Notes

Dr. Clarke selects HMS Africa, a 64-gun third rate remembered for fighting apart from the main British line at Trafalgar. Another panelist favors the long-lived 74-gun ship whose surviving stern is held at the maritime museum in Greenwich. The exchange contrasts affection earned through a dramatic battle record with affection earned through longevity and preservation. It also underlines the variety hidden inside the broad third-rate category, from 64-gun ships to the many successful 74s.