How were medieval navies organised, and how did powerful rulers use them? This fascinating account brings vividly to life the dangers and difficulties of medieval seafaring.

How were medieval navies organised, and how did powerful rulers use them? Medieval Naval Warfare, 1000-1500 provides a wealth of information about the strategy and tactics of these early fleets and the extent to which the possibilities of sea power were understood and exploited. This fascinating account brings vividly to life the dangers and difficulties of medieval seafaring. In particular, it reveals the exploits of the Italian city states, England and France and examines: * why fighting occurred at sea * how battles were fought * the logistical back up needed to maintain a fleet * naval battles from the Mediterranean to the North Sea.

'This excellent book, by the quality of the analysis and the richness of the documentation, is a precious 'reading companion' for every maritime historian and archaeologist.' - Nautical Archaeology'It is short, stimulating, and suffused with examples of how warships were deployed during the Middle Ages ... Susan Rose makes incisive comments throughout about the uses and limitations of medieval seapower.' - English Historical Review