The yacht was designed by the Chief Constructor of the Royal Navy Sir William White, launched in 1899 and ready for service in 1901.

This was the third yacht to be named Victoria and Albert and she was fitted with steam engines fired by Belleville water-tube boilers.

Queen Victoria had lobbied Parliament for many years for a more modern yacht to replace the previous HMY Victoria and Albert (1855), winning this expenditure after pointing out that both the Russian Tsar and the German Kaiser had larger and more modern yachts than Great Britain.

The vessel had an antiquated look when launched as the design was made to resemble the 1855 side wheel steamer Victoria and Albert.

[3] During fitting-out the yacht had significant extra weight added including concrete ballast and even a large traditional capstan so the Queen could be entertained by watching the sailors work.

Designer Sir William White was exonerated from direct responsibility, but lost confidence and resigned his role as Chief Constructor shortly afterwards.

[5] She was the base for the royal couple during the fleet review held at Spithead on 16 August 1902 for the coronation of King Edward VII.

[8] King Edward later used the yacht for summer cruises most years of his reign, visiting various countries in Europe.