USS Resolute arrived at Spithead on 12 December 1856. Queen Victoria set the tone for the acceptance of the gift by requesting the opportunity to visit Resolute with her family. The following day Resolute was towed out to Cowes, where Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and the children were staying at Osborne House.

After Congress approved her purchase by the US Government, Resolute entered the US Navy, becoming temporarily USS (United States Ship) Resolute. Captain Hartstene had an insightful way of dealing with her status when he brought her into Spithead.