Grafton (ship)

The name Grafton has been used for a number of ships, most notably:

• HMS Grafton: Several ships of the British Royal Navy have borne the name HMS Grafton, named after the Duke of Grafton. These include:

  • A 70-gun third rate ship of the line, launched in 1679 and rebuilt in 1700.
  • A 70-gun third rate ship of the line, launched in 1709.
  • A 74-gun third rate ship of the line, launched in 1750.
  • A 74-gun third rate ship of the line, launched in 1771.
  • An Edgar-class cruiser launched in 1892.
  • A Town-class light cruiser launched in 1916.
  • A Batch 3 Type 12 Whitby-class frigate launched in 1957.

• Grafton (merchant vessel): A merchant ship wrecked in 1864 off the Auckland Islands, New Zealand. The survivors, including Captain Thomas Musgrave, endured harsh conditions and eventually constructed a boat to reach New Zealand and seek rescue for the remaining crew. The story of the Grafton and its castaways is a well-known tale of survival.

It is important to specify the context when referring to a ship named Grafton to avoid ambiguity, particularly within naval or maritime historical discussions.