Battle of Abtao

7 February 1866, Abtao island, Gulf of Ancud, Chiloé

Inconclusive

The allied Peruvian–Chilean squadron sheltered in shallow channels behind Abtao island, where the two Spanish frigates could not follow. The two sides exchanged fire at long range; the Spanish gunnery was more accurate and damaged the allied ships, but neither side could close, and the Spanish withdrew.

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Spanish screw frigates Blanca and Villa de Madrid during Naval Battle of Abtao (1866), Spanish Naval Museum, Madrid. Painted by Federico Castellón Martinez. Image: Federico Castellón Martínez, Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Spanish Navy

2 ships, none lost

ShipTypeOutcome
Villa de Madrid

Frigate

Survived
Blanca

Frigate

Survived

Peru + Chile

4 ships, none lost

Peruvian Navy

3 ships, none lost

ShipTypeOutcome
Apurímac

Frigate

Survived
América

Corvette

Survived
Unión

Corvette

Survived

Chilean Navy

1 ship, none lost

ShipTypeOutcome
Covadonga

Schooner

Survived

Map

  • Spanish frigates go south to Chiloé February 1866