The Dutch expedition had poor operational security. Its concentration of famous commanders and leaky clerks advertised that only a major prize could justify the effort, which made the silver fleets the obvious target. The fleet carrying silver from Peru remained in port after receiving a warning, while the fleet from Mexico sailed without the update. A storm then dispersed the Mexican convoy near Havana and carried its ships toward Hein's waiting force.
Chapter · 30:34-32:19
Leaked Dutch plans and failed Spanish warnings
Europe knew the Dutch objective, but one Spanish treasure fleet missed the warning and a storm carried it toward Hein's waiting force.