Active was launched in South America and came into British hands in 1803 as a Spanish prize.

She was on a voyage to Africa when a French squadron captured her in late 1805 or early 1806, and then released her.

Lloyd's List reported in April 1806 that a French squadron consisting of an 84-gun ship-of-the-line and three frigates had captured Lord Nelson, Trio, and the sloop-of-war HMS Favourite off the coast of Africa.

The French put all the captured crews on Active and sent her back to England.

[7] Captain John Lamb acquired a letter of marque on 19 September 1807.