Destroyers of the ‘C’ type “Ca” Class
HMS Cavalier is a preserved Royal Navy destroyer from World War II, now a museum ship. Both ships were built by J Samuel White in Cowes in 1943.
HMS Cavalier & HMS Carysfort Association
At the AGM a decision was made to merge the websites of both ships. They were created over 20 years ago and were in need of a major overhaul to make them fit for purpose for the 21st century. Our thanks to the late Ron Rymer who built Cavalier’s. Also to Eric Smith of Polperro for recording most of the Destroyers lost/damaged and the Casualty database in long hand and those association members who helped transcribe it. This website is dedicated to all who served in these fine ships and we hope it brings back fond memories to everyone.
Jim Donaldson July 2025
Naval Statistics
The ships statistics are readily available within the official Naval History website.
Whilst the Naval History pages are the best resource, there are even inconsistencies in the Naval History information as it claims both ships were initially named HMS Pique.
The correct answer to this is HMS Carysfort only.
War service programmes are also on the below pages but may also be repeated elsewhere within the joint website.
Eight destroyers of the CA Class were built. They were designed for the antiaircraft and anti-submarine defence of Carrier Task Forces and convoys and were also fully capable of anti-shipping/bombardment action.
They were all propelled by conventional steam turbines and displaced 2053 tons on an overall length of 362 feet and a beam of 36 feet. With a top speed of around 34 knots they could make life pretty uncomfortable for all on board.
HMS Cavalier gained the title of fastest ship in the fleet after narrowly beating HMS Rapid the ERA Apprentices training ship in a race over 64 miles on 6th July 1971. HMS Cavalier is the last remaining of the 96 emergency destroyers built during WWII and is preserved in Chatham Historic Dockyard.
Become a member
If you would like to become part of the HMS Cavalier & HMS Carysfort Association, you can become a member by completing an online application form.
