HMS Surprise 1796 (prototype) by James H - Vanguard Models - 1:64

[James H]

8 hours ago, Pitan said:

Question.  
When not in action, would the gun carriages in the captain's cabin be stored facing fore or aft, rather than out to the side?
At the moment, they seem to be blocking access through the cabin doors while Aubrey and Maturin are relaxing with their music.

Prob artistic licence, simply for display convention. A bit like the figures 😆

[AlanDavison]

When a sea and not in action, all gun ports would be closed, gun quoins would be removed and canon and carriage lashed securely to the bulwark to prevent movement.

Models are nearly always shown with canons run out as this enhances the appearance of the model.

As an aside ships boats were often towed, especially when the ship was in action as it reduced the possibility of desertion or splinter injuries. 

[Daniel M]

5 hours ago, AlanDavison said:

as it reduced the possibility of desertion or splinter injuries

 

I remember reading somewhere that the boats where towed to keep them safe during action as they could have been damaged more easily if they were stored on deck and to safe time when they are needed because they are already in the water, but I don't know if this is true.

[Pitan]

On 10/20/2025 at 11:27 AM, AlanDavison said:

As an aside ships boats were often towed, especially when the ship was in action as it reduced the possibility of desertion or splinter injuries.

There are lots of paintings with boats being towed, even in peacetime.
Reasons include those given, but it also gave more space on deck, and helped keep the hull timbers wet, thus avoiding shrinkage and reduced the risk of leaks.

Didn't Aubrey once put a mix of (potential) mutineers and good men in a towed boat?
An uncomfortable experience.

[AlanDavison]

Another thing as well. Most ships boats had masts and sails as well as oars. But masts and sales are seldom included in kit form. Something to be considered in future kits?