In sailing qualities Lizard was broadly comparable with French frigates of equivalent size, but with a shorter and sturdier hull and greater weight in her broadside guns. She was also comparatively broad-beamed with ample space for provisions and the ship's mess, and incorporating a large magazine for powder and round shot. Taken together, these characteristics aimed to enable Lizard to tack and wear more reliably than her French equivalents,Gardiner 1992, p.95 and to remain at sea for longer periods without resupply.Gardiner 1992, pp. 107108 She was built with broad and heavy masts which balanced the weight of her hull, improved stability in rough weather and allowed her to carry a greater quantity of sail. The disadvantages of this heavy design were an overall decline in manoeuvrability and slower speed when sailing in light winds.Gardiner 1992, pp. 111112
