SOG Action at HPYC hosted by Dobbs

[DeRuyter]

I thought I would post a few photos of a game this past Sunday hosted by Dobbs at the Hances Point Yacht Club in Maryland.

We had 7 players and eight ships. The scenario was a breakout of Brest by a squadron of 4 French ships of the line, 3 74s lead by a Tonnant (80). The British squadron is pursuing with 3 74s and one 90. One map edge was shoal water. The action begins when the French commodore realizes his ships will not escape without a fight. The French line wore in succession giving up the gauge to the British in order to maintain formation. This would allow a concentration of fire on the leading ship as they were bearing down in line abreast. Then an untimely wind shift headed the French line allowing the British to bear down at a broad reach. The French decided to wear again. The British then split in an attempt to double the French line. Then the wind shifted back allowing the French to concentrate 4 ships on 2 capturing one by boarding and subsequently sinking another (Dobbs) before the other British ships made it into close action. At the end of the battle in a reversal of tactics the French flagship was dismasted. However with damage on the two remaining British ships they conceded the battle.