It was decided that the "Tory" would sail for New Zealand as soon as possible. His brother William was appointed the leader of the expedition with his son Jerningham as his nominal secretary. They had some difficulty finding a suitable captain for the "Tory", but then found Edward Main Chaffers who had been sailing master on HMS "Beagle" during Fitzroy's circumnavigation. Dr. Ernst Dieffenbach was appointed as scientific officer, and Charles Heaphy as a draughtsman. The "Tory" left London on 5 May and called at Plymouth to complete the fitting out. Fearing a last-minute attempt by the government to prevent her sailing, Wakefield hastened down to Plymouth and advised their immediate departure. The "Tory" finally quit English shores on 12 May 1839 and reached New Zealand 96 days later.