TYNE BUILT SHIPS
  A history of Tyne shipbuilders and the ships that they built

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Name: SURPRISE
Type: Cruiser
Keel: 14/02/1884
Launched: 17/01/1885
Completed: 06/1885
Builder: Palmers' Shipbuilding & Iron Co Ltd
Yard: Jarrow
Yard Number: 539
Dimensions: 1700disp, 250.0 x 32.5 x 13.0(draft)ft
Engines: 2 x C2cyl (26 & 50 x 34ins), 2000ihp
Engines by: Palmers' Shipbuilding & Iron Co Ltd, Jarrow
Propulsion: 2 x Screws, 18.0knots
Construction: Steel
Armament: 4 x 1 x 5.0ins, 4 x 1 x 6pdr QF guns
History:
20/07/1886 British Royal Navy
1913 Renamed ALACRITY
1919 Unknown owner
No later history known
Comments: Member of the SURPRISE Class of 3rd Class Cruisers
Delivered as an unarmed despatch vessel
Converted into a fleet scout after delivery by adding guns in sponsons
High standard of accommodation for diplomats & officials
1919: Probably sold for breaking up


Above photo is courtesy of Photoship

Northern Echo, Monday, January 19, 1885

Newcastle Weekly Courant, Friday, June 19, 1885