The RNH began in 1841 in a matshed[clarification needed] on the site of the Wellington Barracks on Hong Kong Island.

During the same month, the Navy constructed makeshift structures, such as store sheds and a naval hospital, to serve their needs.

The funding for the Seamen's Hospital came from HMS Melville, which was sold for HK$35,000, after which the proceeds were used to establish the shore facilities.

In 1946 the hospital relocated to the War Memorial Nursing Home on the Peak (Mount Kellett Road) until it was closed in 1956.

Naval medical services and patients were transferred to the British Military Hospital, Hong Kong in Kowloon after 1956.