The British ships suffered damage and casualties, including holes below Phoebe's waterline and badly cut rigging. Essex's losses were far greater: 58 dead, 65 wounded, and about 200 recorded hits. Fifteen guns were disabled, the stern was smashed, the wheel and rudder were damaged, all three masts suffered, and the upper works and rigging were devastated. Most American dead and wounded came from the gun crews, showing how Hillyar's targeting removed the people and equipment needed to keep fighting. Essex Junior reported no casualties because the British had not considered her worth engaging.
Notable Point · 2:51:37-2:52:47
The casualty and damage totals reveal the range mismatch
Phoebe and Cherub lost five killed and ten wounded, while Essex suffered 58 dead, 65 wounded, roughly 200 hits, and the destruction of most of her fighting systems.