Battle of Solebay

Timeline

1. 1672Solebay anchorage · EnglandCharles II and Louis XIV went to war against the Netherlands under the Secret Treaty of Dover. James, Duke of York, commanded the English army; the French squadron was led by D'Estrées; the plan was to transport the army ashore after destroying the Dutch fleet. The allies let their guard down while taking on water and supplies at Solebay anchorage.
2. 1672Solebay · North SeaDe Ruyter, Bankert, and Van Gent attacked under a southwest wind. The Earl of Sandwich's flagship Royal James caught fire from fireship attack; both the Earl and Van Gent were killed. The French squadron engaged poorly, and the English and Dutch main fleets fought until dusk. Both sides lost several ships of the line, a near-tactical draw.
3. 1672Solebay · North SeaThe allied fleet suffered heavier damage and was forced to abandon the plan to immediately blockade Dutch ports and land the army. Although French forces advanced deep into the United Provinces on land, De Ruyter maintained the sea route, preventing the Disaster Year from adding a coastal landing front.