When Modragón lay siege to the city, Zierikzee had had enough time to prepare their defenses because the preceding siege of Bommenede had taken Modragón 20 days, which was a long time for a relative small city.

Until February 1576, despite heavy fire, small Dutch vessels were able to reach and supply the city.

The Dutch under Admiral Lodewijk van Boisot and William the Silent made 3 attempts to break the siege.

On 11 April a major sea battle was fought, but ended indecisively.

But on 12 July a mutiny broke out among the Spanish troops, who didn't receive their long overdue and promised pay.