HMS Lady Nelson (1798) 80cm (Please inquire)

Launched in 1798, HMS Lady Nelson holds a special place in Australian maritime history. She was a small but innovative vessel, equipped with three sliding keels that allowed her to safely navigate shallow and unfamiliar waters. Under the command of Lieutenant James Grant, Lady Nelson became the first known European ship to sail west to east through Bass Strait, proving that Tasmania was indeed an island — a discovery that would shape the future of Australian colonisation and trade.

Our handcrafted model of HMS Lady Nelson offers something special for everyone — whether you’re a maritime enthusiast, a collector of historic ships, or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship and meaningful decor. Built from high-quality timber and fully assembled with meticulous attention to detail, this model brings to life one of Australia’s most important exploration vessels. It’s more than just a beautiful display piece — it’s a tribute to the spirit of discovery, naval innovation, and early Australian history. Whether displayed in a home, office, study, or given as a thoughtful gift, the HMS Lady Nelson model is a timeless reminder of our shared maritime heritage. With its graceful lines and rich story, it will inspire admiration, spark conversation, and add character to any space.

Key Features of the 80cm HMS Lady Nelson Model Ship:

• A realistic replica of the Lady Nelson, fully assembled and ready for display—not a kit.
• Dimensions: 80cm L x 26cm W x 69cm H, 1:20 scale.
• Built to scale, using real plans and imagery of the ship for the best finish.
• Made hand-built with everything created using individual model wooden planks.
• High-quality wood is used to help make sure that it can handle changes in temperature.
• All of the major features, like cannons and anchors, are made directly using sculpted metals.
• Additional intricate details include lattice grates, rudder chains, lifeboats, a steering wheel, and more.
• Handmade sails included, with a series of fine linen prepared for the best finish.
• A HMS Lady Nelson model ship that is designed with a wooden base and nameplate included.
• A fact sheet is included for making it easy to show others all about the HMS Lady Nelson.

About the HMS Lady Nelson

Launched in 1798, HMS Lady Nelson was a British cutter built specifically for exploring uncharted coastal waters. She was commissioned by the Royal Navy and designed by Sir Samuel Bentham, featuring a unique innovation for the time — three sliding keels (centreboards). These allowed the vessel to navigate shallow and unpredictable coastal waters with greater control, making her especially suitable for exploratory missions. The ship was named after Lady Nelson, the wife of Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson, one of Britain’s most celebrated naval heroes.

Lady Nelson played a crucial role in the early maritime exploration of Australia’s southern and eastern coasts. Under the command of Lieutenant James Grant, she became the first known European ship to pass through Bass Strait from west to east in 1800 — a voyage that confirmed Tasmania was an island. She later assisted in the establishment of several key British settlements, including those at Port Phillip (now Melbourne) and Hobart in Tasmania. Lady Nelson’s size and agility allowed her to explore, survey, and transport supplies to remote locations where larger ships could not safely go.

After years of faithful service along the Australian coast, Lady Nelson was sent on missions to Southeast Asia. In 1825, while operating near the island of Timor, the ship was captured by local pirates. Her crew was reportedly killed or captured, and the ship was never seen again. Despite her tragic end, HMS Lady Nelson’s legacy lives on in Australian maritime history — remembered as a humble but heroic vessel that helped map and shape a young continent.