The Ottoman fleet's roughly 278 vessels made Venetian participation essential, but the political burden was not shared evenly. Venice had the strongest incentive to commit every available ship because defeat threatened its territory and trade. The Knights of Malta, Spain, Genoa, and other contributors retained forces for their own requirements rather than risking total loss in one battle. Their goal was to meet alliance expectations without leaving themselves defenseless elsewhere. The fleet list reveals the burden-sharing problem and national caveats inside the coalition.
Notable Point · 27:44-29:51
Coalition members rationed their commitment
Venice committed nearly everything because its survival was at stake, while partners preserved ships for their own security and missions.