Adams branched out in 1744, moving to Hampshire as naval overseer for the construction of the 20-gun frigate HMS Surprize at Buckler's Hard.

Buckler's Hard, at the time owned by James Wyatt, was in financial difficulties throughout this period.

[5] In 1748, Henry Adams was successful in securing his first Admiralty contract, to construct the 28-gun sixth-rate vessel Mermaid.

[8] Adams contracts with the Royal Navy culminated in the construction of larger sailing frigates, including several third-rate ships of the line.

[10] He was responsible for the construction of HMS Indefatigable which saw fame under Captain Sir Edward Pellew during the action of 13 January 1797.