The squadron, consisting of four galleys, sailed for Cyprus; where Pisani had just endeavoured, without success, to expel the Genoese from Famagosta.

It was towards the end of August that they effected a junction with his fleet.

Pisani received Francis with great warmth, and, in the presence of many officers, remarked that he was glad to see that the republic was, at last, appointing men for their merits, and not, as heretofore, allowing family connection and influence to be the chief passport to their favour.
For two months the fleet sailed among the islands of the Levant, and along the shores of Greece, Istria, and Dalmatia; hoping to find the Genoese fleet, but altogether without success.

In November, when they were on the coast of Istria, winter set in with extraordinary severity, and the frost was intense.

Pisani wrote to his government asking permission to bring the fleet into Venice until the spring.