HMS Galatea was a 20-gun Sphinx-class sixth-rate frigate of the Royal Navy that saw service during the American Revolutionary War. Launched in 1776, the ship participated in various battles and engagements, including the capture of several American privateers. Galatea also played a crucial role in protecting British merchant shipping routes and supporting naval operations in the North American theater. The ship was involved in the successful capture of the American privateer Fair American in 1782. Galatea's service continued post-war, where it was assigned to various stations and missions, including anti-smuggling patrols and convoy duties. The ship eventually underwent repairs and refitting before being recommissioned for service in the Mediterranean. HMS Galatea's career came to an end in 1808 when it was wrecked off the coast of Portugal. The ship's legacy lives on through its contributions to British naval operations during a pivotal period in maritime history.

This description has been generated using GPT-3.5-TURBO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.