A minor but decisive Channel engagement in which HMS Crescent captured the French frigate Réunion, earning Captain Saumarez a knighthood.
Key Facts
- Date
- 20 October 1793
- British ship
- HMS Crescent (Captain James Saumarez)
- French ship captured
- Réunion
- French casualties
- 80–120 personnel
- British casualties
- 1 wounded (accidental) personnel
- Engagement duration
- Over two hours
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
In early 1793, French frigates Réunion and Sémillante based at Cherbourg-en-Cotentin conducted raids on British merchant shipping in the English Channel. The Royal Navy deployed HMS Crescent under Captain James Saumarez to watch Cherbourg and disrupt these operations.
On 20 October 1793, off Cape Barfleur, Saumarez intercepted the French frigate Réunion and the cutter Espérance. He isolated Réunion and subjected her to more than two hours of intense fire. The French vessel suffered severe damage to rigging, masts, and hull, with 80 to 120 casualties, before Captain Dénian was compelled to surrender upon the arrival of HMS Circe.
Réunion was repaired and commissioned into the Royal Navy following her capture. Captain Saumarez was knighted in recognition of his victory. British losses were negligible, amounting to a single man accidentally wounded, highlighting the one-sided nature of the engagement.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Captain James Saumarez.
Side B
1 belligerent
Captain François A. Dénian.