On the same return to Bristol, Simmonds was also presented with a goblet in gratitude for the skilful way in which he dealt with the hurricane. The artist has bathed the painting in soft light and his careful handling of the subject reflects the purpose of the work. The 'Britannia' was built in Bristol in 1829 and was used for the Barbados trade. Her owners were Thomas Daniel of Bristol and John Daniel of London: Simmonds became her master in 1836. The ship sank in 1849 off Wexford, on the coast of Ireland, when bound for Madeira and Barbados. Although her cargo was lost the crew were saved.

The artist was born in Bristol and was a pupil of Thomas Lang. He lived and worked in the commercial port there and his familiarity with marine subjects suggests that he may for a time have gone to sea. He was considered the leading ship-portrait painter in Bristol during the nineteenth century and this painting shows his close attention to the details of a specific ship's appearance and rig. The painting is signed and dated, lower left, 'J. Walter 1838' and is inscribed on the back, 'Captain Symonds Bristol to the West Indies'.