HMSAS Protea

HMSAS Protea was originally built as a survey vessel for the South African Naval Forces during World War II. Launched in 1941, she was tasked with hydrographic surveying and charting the South African coast and surrounding waters, which was vital for naval operations and maritime safety. After the war, Protea continued to serve as a training ship and survey vessel, contributing significantly to South Africa's maritime knowledge and naval capabilities. She was decommissioned in 1970 and later preserved as a museum ship, representing an important chapter in South African naval history and maritime heritage.