| Name: | SURPRISE |
| Type: | Cruiser |
| Keel: | 14/02/1884 |
| Launched: | 17/01/1885 |
| Completed: | 06/1885 |
| Builder: | Palmers' Shipbuilding & Iron Co Ltd |
| Yard: | Jarrow |
| Yard Number: | 539 |
| Dimensions: | 1700disp, 250.0 x 32.5 x 13.0(draft)ft |
| Engines: | 2 x C2cyl (26 & 50 x 34ins), 2000ihp |
| Engines by: | Palmers' Shipbuilding & Iron Co Ltd, Jarrow |
| Propulsion: | 2 x Screws, 18.0knots |
| Construction: | Steel |
| Armament: | 4 x 1 x 5.0ins, 4 x 1 x 6pdr QF guns |
| History: | |
| 20/07/1886 | British Royal Navy |
| 1913 | Renamed ALACRITY |
| 1919 | Unknown owner |
| No later history known | |
| Comments: | Member of the SURPRISE Class of 3rd Class Cruisers |
| Delivered as an unarmed despatch vessel | |
| Converted into a fleet scout after delivery by adding guns in sponsons | |
| High standard of accommodation for diplomats & officials | |
| 1919: Probably sold for breaking up |
Above photo is courtesy of Photoship
Northern Echo, Monday, January 19, 1885
Newcastle Weekly Courant, Friday, June 19, 1885