Thanks - I had already done as you suggest (if only to make the information more user friendly).

I have used the Times Archive already - quite a useful source for basic information. Of course if you are lucky there is quite a bit on the internet (used with the usual caution) particularly where contemporary reports are included. I note your comments re logs.

Google Books is also a useful source if you haven't tried it. There are quite a few Victorian/Edwardian books available online which give details on naval "exploits" some based on contemporary experience. Quite often a search on a Captain's name or a ship can throw up some useful references. Obviously copyright may prevent the whole book being available but many are readable in full.