Their robust iron hulls meant that they lingered on as diving tenders, barges and lighters, with five of them working into the 1920s.

Although the Medinas were exceptionally provided with masts to extend their range and independence, in essence they were available for similar operations to their un-masted sisters; offensive action against shore defences.

[3] All the ships of the class were fitted with a pair of R and W Hawthorn 2-cylinder horizontal single-expansion steam engines of 60 nominal horsepower.

[4] Dee and Don served in the Mediterranean in 1886 as part of an International squadron dominated by the Royal Navy.

[5][6] Tay had her armament reduced to a single 9-pounder gun and by 1914 was a tender to HMS Vivid, the Royal Navy barracks at Devonport.