The Explorer class was a two-ship class of general purpose vessels built for the RAN.[2] The ships had a displacement of 207 tons at standard load and 260 tons at full load.[2] Each was long between perpendiculars and long overall, had a beam of, and a draught of .[2] Propulsion machinery consisted of GM diesels, which supplied to the two propeller screws, and allowed the vessel to reach .[2] The ship's company consisted of 14 personnel.[2] The ship's armament of light weapons (usually .50 calibre machine guns) were only fitted as needed.[2]
The two vessel, and, were built by Walkers Limited of Maryborough, Queensland.[3] Both were laid down in 1959, and were commissioned into the RAN in 1960.[3]
The Explorers' primary roles were hydrographic survey and reservist training, among other duties.[2]
In December 1982, both vessels were decommissioned.[2] Despite this, they remained active in training until the mid-1990s.[2]