In September 1796 Gilbert Elliot, the British viceroy of the Anglo-Corsican Kingdom, decided that it was necessary to clear out Capraja, which belonged to the Genoese and which served as a base for privateers. He sent Lord Nelson in , together with "Gorgon", "Vanneau", the cutter "Rose", and troops of the 51st Regiment of Foot to accomplish this task in September. On their way, "Minerva" joined them. The troops landed on 18 September and the island surrendered immediately. On 27 September, "Minerva" was in company with the hired armed cutter "Lady Jane" when they captured two Spanish vessels, the "Santa Francisco Xavier" and the "Nostra Senora de la Miserecordia".