Q&A ยท 1:13:35-1:14:12

British ships of the line crowded on sail before battle

British ships closing to break an enemy line commonly set as much sail as possible to make the most of the wind.

Question

Were there general sail configurations in which a ship of the line would enter battle?

Short answer

British ships attacking an enemy line commonly crowded on every available sail to make the most of the wind during the approach.

Notes

British ships approaching an enemy line would crowd on as much sail as they could. The immediate aim was to make the most of the wind while closing to break through the formation. Royals, topgallants, and additional canvas all contributed to that approach. Every available scrap of sail helped the ship close for the attack.