Arrac de Vignes joined the Navy as a Garde-Marine on 1 February 1756. He was promoted to Lieutenant on 1 October 1773, and to Captain on 9 May 1781.
He served as first officer on the 64-gun Saint Michel, under Chevalier d'Aymar, when she came to reinforce the French squadron under Suffren in the Indian Ocean.
Suffren promoted him to the command of the 64-gun Artésien. He took part in the Battle of Cuddalore, where his performance satisfied Suffren.
After the war, he was amongst the captains that Suffren recommended for promotion[Note 1] He received a 600-livre pension in recognition of his service.