French ship Vestale (1756)

The Vestale was a 32-gun Charmante-class frigate of the French Navy, launched in 1756. She served during the Seven Years' War and the American Revolutionary War.

Service History:

Built at Rochefort, the Vestale saw action in several notable engagements. During the Seven Years’ War, she was involved in numerous patrols and skirmishes in the Atlantic.

In 1761, she was famously captured by the British frigate HMS Warwick after a hard-fought action. The engagement was significant due to the fierce resistance put up by the French crew, and the capture of the Vestale was considered a valuable prize for the Royal Navy.

Following her capture, the Vestale was commissioned into the Royal Navy under the same name, HMS Vestale. She continued to serve with the British, participating in further actions.

Fate:

As HMS Vestale, she remained in service until sold out of the Royal Navy in 1775.

Characteristics:

• Type: Frigate
• Class: Charmante-class
• Guns: 32
• Launched: 1756
• Builder: Rochefort Dockyard