Scale: Unknown. A contemporary full hull model of a sheer hulk, together with a full hull model of a 40-gun frigate, both of which are mounted in a waterline base. Both models are rigged with masts and standing rigging, together with a number of deck fittings. The fact that this model has been ‘robustly’ made would suggest that it was made for as a working model for training.

Since it was too dangerous to launch a ship with its lower mast stepped, the completed hull once launched, was towed and moored alongside these sheer hulks, which were permanently moored in the deeper waters of the river or harbour. Their role was a floating crane to step the lower masts on ships in a safe and controlled manner. In most cases, these vessels were old ships that had been retired from active service but were still seaworthy enough to be converted or rebuilt as sheer hulks.