Vasilissa Olga's design was derived from that of the Austro-Hungarian broadside ironclads of the Kaiser Max class.

The ship displaced 2,030 long tons (2,060 t) and was fitted with a single steam engine that drove one propeller.

For long-distance travel, Vasilissa Olga was fitted with three masts and was barque rigged.

Above the belt amidships was an armored citadel that was protected by 4.7-inch (119 mm) plates on all four sides.

During this conversion, Vasilissa Olga was re-engined and her sailing rig was replaced by two military masts.