The French fleet of seventeen ships-of-the-line was sought and chased by the Anglo-Neapolitan fleet of 22 ships. Some manoeuvring by the British commander, Vice-Admiral Hotham, moved the Coalition fleet further away from the French before he ordered a general chase. The advantage was lost and only six British ships were able to come up with the enemy. As others were closing the Admiral ordered a general recall. A much criticized action.

The action started about 25 miles southeast of Toulon, a French Mediterranean port, and continued to the northeast, the French eventually anchoring in Frejus Bay.