HMS Cockatrice (1781)

HMS Cockatrice was a Swan-class ship sloop of the Royal Navy, launched in 1781. She was commissioned in December 1781 under Commander John Douglas, and was involved in operations during the American Revolutionary War.

The Swan-class sloops were designed by Sir John Williams and were known for their copper sheathing, which provided protection against marine growth and hull damage in tropical waters. This made them well-suited for service in the West Indies and along the American coast.

Cockatrice served primarily in North American waters during her early years. In 1783, under the command of Commander Thomas Boulden Thompson, she played a role in the evacuation of Loyalist refugees from Charleston, South Carolina.

Following the end of the American Revolutionary War, Cockatrice continued in active service. In 1790, she was refitted at Portsmouth.

In 1795, under Commander William Haggitt, Cockatrice was active in the English Channel. She was involved in the capture of several French privateers. In December of that year, she recaptured the brig William.

In 1797, the Cockatrice was under the command of Commander James Roscow and participated in the Spithead mutiny. Details of her crew's specific involvement are limited, but she was present at Spithead during the unrest.

She was sold out of the service in 1802. Her ultimate fate following her sale is not definitively documented in available historical records.