HMS Virago (1842)

HMS Virago was a wood-hulled paddle sloop of the Royal Navy, launched in 1842. She was built at Woolwich Dockyard and was one of the early steam-powered warships.

Virago saw active service during the Crimean War, participating in operations in the Baltic Sea. She was present at the bombardment of Bomarsund in 1854 and saw action in the Black Sea as well.

She was later employed on anti-slavery patrols off the coast of Africa.

Virago was sold out of service in 1875. Her career reflects the Royal Navy's transition from sail to steam power in the mid-19th century.