 The squadron took part in the annual fleet training exercises that began on 6 August; during the maneuvers, the squadron filled the role of the II Division of the main fleet.After the exercises concluded the following month, the Training Squadron embarked on a winter cruise to the Mediterranean.During this voyage, the squadron flagship, , caught fire and had to be docked for repairs, during which time "Gneisenau" served as the flagship from 19 November 1887 to 8 January 1888.