Rolf Krake was ordered in 1862 as tensions rose between Prussia and Denmark over the Duchy of Schleswig-Holstein in the early 1860s.

The engine produced a total of 700 indicated horsepower (520 kW)[2] which gave her a maximum speed of 10.5 knots (19.4 km/h; 12.1 mph) during her sea trials in mid-1863.

[3] Rolf Krake carried 135 long tons (137 t) of coal,[5] enough to steam 1,150 nautical miles (2,130 km; 1,320 mi) at 8 knots (15 km/h; 9.2 mph).

It completely covered the hull from the upper deck to 3 feet (0.9 m) below the waterline and was backed by 8 inches (203 mm) of wood.

The inside of the turret was lined with 0.375 inches (9.5 mm) of iron boiler plate to which T-shaped beams were bolted.