HMS Explorer (P164)

HMS Explorer provides hands-on experience for students from Leeds, Sheffield and Hull – she’s the sea training vessel for Yorkshire Universities Royal Naval Unit.

Role

HMS Explorer has a busy, diverse role which spans training students, getting out there and engaging with the public in smaller ports where large vessels won’t fit, and deploying to the Baltic to work with NATO Allies.

Undergraduates from universities all over Yorkshire join the team to learn more about the Royal Navy.

The Yorkshire Universities Royal Naval Unit welcomes new recruits in September each year. There’s no liability for call up, and you can expect a friendly welcoming atmosphere, alongside adventures and experiences you won’t forget.

Capability

Explorer plays a unique and valued role engaging the public, inspiring the next generation and getting involved in Baltic operations.

Young people who are interested in the Royal Navy learn about leadership and fraternity as they gain practical skills.
Though just 21 metres long, Explorer has deployed as far as the Baltic.
She also plays an important role representing the Royal Navy in smaller ports where larger ships in the fleet are unable to visit.
The Ship’s Company are skilled outside of their core roles – Engineers handle lines while working Part of Ship, and Warfare Ratings cook meals for everyone.

Archer class

Crew

Led by Lieutenant Owen Long, the crew of HMS Explorer are undergraduates from universities all over Yorkshire who join the team to learn more about the Royal Navy.

They’re a diverse bunch – studying degree programmes from art to engineering - though they share a positive attitude to embrace new challenges, and the potential to become the leaders of tomorrow.

Unit history

1956

The First Explorer

Was an unarmed experimental Walter-turbine submarine. Unfortunately, she had so many teething troubles that her first captain never took her to sea!

1958

Lift off

She eventually got to work in 1958, and was impressively fast with submerged speeds of up to 25 knots!

1965

End of an era

HMS Explorer was laid up in 1965 and recycled in 1969-70.

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@HMSExplorer

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