She was classified as a steam sloop and was built in 1816 at Deptford Dockyard specifically for an exploration of the Congo River.

The steam engine is recorded as weighing 30 tons and was capable of developing 20 Horse Power.

[1] Trials proved that this power, when transmitted to the paddle wheels, could only propel the vessel at about three knots.

Such a rate of progress, coupled with unsatisfactory handling characteristics (she was described as very crank) resulted in the engine and paddle wheels being removed.

Most of the survivors were seamen who had stayed with the support vessel Dorothy at the rapids that blocked further progress.