Capitano Straordinario delle Navi

The first organized tactical formations of sailing ships—originally merchant vessels chartered for naval service—began being formed in the late 15th century.

The position of Capitano delle Navi was established as the commander of the sailing squadron in the battle fleet, under the overall authority of the Captain General of the Sea.

[1] During the 17th century sailing ships of the line began to play a more important role and comprised a larger and larger portion of the Venetian battle fleet, particularly during the War of Candia,[2] leading to the creation of divisions of the sailing battle fleet (the armata grossa), and the posts of Almirante and Patron delle Navi established in 1657 to command these.

As distinctive signs, his flagship carried a single lantern aft, the standard of Saint Mark on the starboard side aft, and on the mainmast a square ensign of Saint Mark.

[6] Following the Peace of Passarowitz in 1718, the Venetian navy was reduced in size and limited to its peacetime duties; the only time a Capitano Straordinario delle Navi was appointed again was in 1784, when Angelo Emo was sent to lead a naval expedition against the Beylik of Tunis.