Dutch fleet composition also reflected physical geography. Restricted harbour approaches limited the usefulness of deeper-draught first and second rates, even though the Dutch had possessed some larger ships at other times. Third rates matched the navy's financial and combat requirements and the physical limits of its bases. Force structure cannot be separated from ports, water depth, and access routes.
Notable Point · 36:09-36:37
Dutch harbours shaped the fleet at Camperdown
Restricted approaches to Dutch harbours help explain why the fleet at Camperdown depended on third rates rather than larger three-deck ships.