Blockade of Porto Bello

The Blockade of Porto Bello was a failed British naval action against the Spanish port of Porto Bello in present-day Panama between 1726 and 1727 as part of the Anglo-Spanish War. The British were attempting to blockade the port to stop the Spanish treasure fleet leaving for Spain with its valuable cargo. However tropical disease took its toll of the seamen to the extent that the British had to leave to re-crew, during which time the Spanish were able to re-commence shipping operations.

For other battles in the same place, see Battle of Porto Bello.
Blockade of Porto Bello
Part of the Anglo-Spanish War (1727–1729)

View across Porto Bello harbour entrance, looking NW from Fort Santiago
Date1726–1728
Location
Porto Bello (present-day Panama)
Result Spanish victory
Spanish treasure fleet evades blockade.
Belligerents
 Great Britain Spain
Commanders and leaders
Francis Hosier †
Edward St. Lo †
Edward Hopson †		 Antonio de Gaztañeta
Gregorio Guazo †
Juan de Andía
Strength
11 ships of line
1 frigate
2 sloops of war
1 snow
4,750 men		 2,000 troops
Casualties and losses
4,000+ dead
1 ship wrecked
Most British casualties were due to yellow fever and other tropical diseases.
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