Most large warships were not kept continuously ready for sea. Apart from guard ships, station flagships, and small active squadrons, much of the fleet remained laid up, stored, or under maintenance. Returning those ships to service required preparation rather than a simple order to sail. Time out of the water or in dry dock also helps explain why wooden warships could survive for many years.
Notable Point · 22:02-23:09
What mobilizing a laid-up wooden fleet required
Eighteenth-century fleet mobilization was a visible commitment because most large warships were laid up and needed time and preparation before they could sail.