The ship was originally classified as a "torpedo-gunboat", and was designed to fill the role of gunboat, torpedo boat and destroyer.

The engines provided 7000 hp which gave Tejo a speed of 25 kn (46 km/h; 29 mph).

After the First Portuguese Republic was established, the ship was recommissioned as NRP Tejo.

In 1910, Tejo accidentally ran aground in Peniche and suffered severe damage.

While undergoing tests, Tejo proved to be the fastest ship of the Portuguese Navy.