Colonna could not directly see everything happening aboard Don John's flagship from his position in the formation. Someone farther back therefore had to recognize the danger and pass information forward. The fleet used flag signals as well as small boats rowing between ships with messages. Neither method offered fast or complete situational awareness amid a boarding battle. The successful reinforcement shows why experienced subordinates and a reserve commander mattered when communications were fragile.
Notable Point · 59:40-1:00:51
Flags and messenger boats carried battle orders
Limited visibility forced the Holy League to combine flag signals, small messenger boats, and initiative from commanders who could see the crisis.