The Portuguese squadron commanded by don Mello departed 27 April for cruising in the Strait of Gibraltar. It consisted of 1-70 gun ship of the line, 1-48 gun frigate, 1-40 gun frigate, 1-24 gun brigantine, 1-22 gun brigantine and 1 22-gun cutter. Two other warships escorted a ship with prisoners towards Goa.
