HMS Victoria collides with HMS Camperdown and sinks; Admiral Tryon lost

Background. In 1893, the Mediterranean Sea was vital for British access to India. Vice-Admiral Sir George Tryon commanded the fleet, emphasizing continuous evolutions via signal flags. On 22 June, eleven ironclads conducted annual summer exercises off Tripoli in the Ottoman Empire. Victoria led a division, while Camperdown led another 1,200 yards to starboard, a distance insufficient for their turning circles.

Collision. During 'steam tactics' manoeuvres, Victoria and Camperdown approached. Despite orders, the ships' turning circles of 800 yards made the 1,200-yard spacing dangerous. When engines were reversed, it was too late. Camperdown's ram struck Victoria's starboard side 12 feet below the waterline, penetrating 9 feet. This caused a large hole, leading to rapid capsize and sinking.

Aftermath. Victoria sank in approximately 15 minutes, killing 358 crew members, including Vice-Admiral Tryon. Survivors included John Jellicoe. A court-martial began on 17 July 1893 at Malta to investigate the sinking and try Captain Bourke. The court highlighted the conflict between unconditional obedience to signals and the duty to avoid danger when immediate action is imperative.