She was launched by the New York Navy Yard on 26 October 1831, and commissioned on 15 December 1831, Lieutenant S. W. Downing in command.

Enterprise sailed on 12 January 1832 for South America where she patrolled the Brazil Station guarding United States' interests until April 1834.

Continuing eastward, Enterprise called at Honolulu, Hawaii, in September 1836, then proceeded to the west coast of Mexico, arriving at Mazatlán on 28 October 1836.

She cruised the west coast of South America until March 1839, when she departed Valparaíso, Chile to round the Horn, call at Rio de Janeiro, and sail on to Philadelphia.

In 1843 Enterprise was encountered by Chilean schooner Ancud at Puerto Americano in the fjords and channels of Patagonia.