At Sluys, a tied fleet surrendered its maneuvering advantage

The French had hired maneuverable Genoese war galleys, while Edward III's force relied largely on converted merchant ships carrying archers and armored men-at-arms. The experienced Genoese commander advised fighting in open water, where his galleys could exploit their mobility, but the French leaders kept the fleet anchored and tied together. Neighboring ships could no longer maneuver to help once the English gained a foothold. English archery and boarding parties advanced along the line, taking wealthy prisoners and throwing others overboard. The Genoese commander escaped with his galley after recognizing the defeat. In this account, the two French commanders were killed despite their attempt to surrender for ransom, and the invasion fleet was destroyed.