HMS Rhadamanthus was one of the initial steam powered vessels built for the Royal Navy.

On 10 January 1831 the First Sea Lord gave orders that four paddle vessels be built to competitive designs.

The vessels were to be powered by Maudslay, Son & Field steam engines, carry a schooner rig and mount one or two 10-inch shell guns.

During her steam trials the engine generated 385 indicated horsepower (287 kW) for a speed of 10 knots (19 km/h).

[8] The brass guns were later removed and one 32-pounder 42 cwt MLSB was fitted on a pivot mount.

[Note 3] She was first commissioned on 4 October 1832 for the blockade of the Dutch Coast during the Belgian war of Independence.

At the end of the blockade duties she was assigned to the North America and West Indies Station.

[12] She was recommissioned on 23 October 1836 under Commander John Duffill, RN, as a packet vessel for the coast of Spain.