For fleets, make sure to have 2 ships on recover minimum. I have 3 active command brigs (1 patrol 2 recover) and still making a solid amount. I dont even have to check in with my deckhands since everything is at 100%. It needs some setup, but its finally paying off. To get ships, make sure you know the inactive follower cost for each ship. (Inactive followers are used for getting new ships, for example, a brig costs 32 inactive followers) Once you have 2 fleet commanders, set 1 to patrol and the other to recover, then you can manage it from there based on your needs.
Recover increases strength patrol/plunder increases food and supplies so I don’t have to spend on those.
For fleet commanders, hire either your canoneer or enchanter since they arent as used as the shipbuilder and navigator, from there since you have space on your ship you can hire deckhands and max their loyalty. Only max out 3 new deckhands at most so your original deckhand still has a spot. All you have to do is max their loyalty not anything else.
DISCLAIMER: NEVER DISMISS A FLEET COMMANDER IF YOU DONT HAVE SPACE ON YOUR SHIP THEY WILL BE VOIDED SINCE THERE CURRENTLY ISN’T A WAY TO STORE DECKHANDS.
I’m pretty sure Cloud? Made a more in depth post on fleets check it out.
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You can also sell cannonballs and crafted jewels you dont need.