The figure of 777 comes from reconciling several medieval accounts, while another surviving total gives 696 vessels. The smaller number may describe ships that departed on 27 or 28 September rather than every vessel originally assembled. Storm losses could also mean separation from the force rather than sinking, allowing ships to rejoin later. With no complete payroll or operational register, the lists are best read as snapshots of mobilization, departure, and arrival rather than claims about one identical moment.
Notable Point · 10:13-11:41
Why the surviving fleet totals disagree
Figures such as 696 and 777 may describe the fleet at different moments, including assembly, departure, or survival after storms, rather than competing totals for one instant.