The recapture of HMS Hermione at Puerto Cabello was one of the most celebrated cutting out operations of the Age of Sail.
Key Facts
- Date
- 25 October 1799
- British ship
- HMS Surprise
- Target vessel
- HMS Hermione (formerly British frigate)
- British commander
- Edward Hamilton
- Spanish commander
- Captain Ramón Echalaz
- Tactic used
- Cutting out operation (night boarding by small boats)
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
HMS Hermione was seized by its own crew during a violent mutiny and handed over to Spain, after which it was anchored under heavy guard at the fortified port of Puerto Cabello. Britain sought to recover the vessel and restore its honor, dispatching HMS Surprise under Edward Hamilton to execute the mission.
On the night of 25 October 1799, HMS Surprise carried out a cutting out operation at Puerto Cabello, Venezuela. British sailors attacked in small boats under cover of darkness, boarding the heavily guarded Hermione and overwhelming her Spanish crew under Captain Ramón Echalaz to retake the frigate.
The operation successfully recaptured HMS Hermione from Spanish custody, recovering the vessel that had been lost to mutiny. The action became renowned in Royal Navy history as a striking example of bold seamanship and contributed to Edward Hamilton's fame.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Edward Hamilton.
Side B
1 belligerent
Ramón Echalaz.