A dramatic portrayal of the 'Ambuscade' in treacherous seas just off the coast of Jersey. Ominous and threatening rocks loom right up to the picture plain, while the sky appears to be booming with thunder and lightning. The 'Ambuscade' has been almost entirely dismasted and is pitching at a frightening angle. She would, however, go on to serve in the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. She had a colourful career - she was captured by the French corvette Bayonnaise on 14 December, 1798, and was recaptured by the Victory on 28 May, 1803. She was finally broken up in 1810.

The print is inscribed: 'The Situation of His Majesty's Ship Ambuscade off the Island of Jersey, the 15th of November 1779. To the Inhabitants of the said Island, This plate is most humbly Dedicated by their obedient humble servant W Adlam, Capt of Marines."