The Fleet of Courland and Semigallia is the navy and merchant fleet of the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia. It has existed since the end of the XVI century, but the official date of its creation is considered to be the founding of the Vindava Admiralty in 1638. The main creator - Duke Jacob Kettler, the most prominent of all the rulers of the duchy. It was built at the Vindava (1638–1718), Goldingen (1638–1702), and Libava shipyards (1677–1702). During its heyday in the middle of the XVII century, it numbered up to 40 warships and 100 merchant ships. Fleet was used in international trade, the Couronian colonization of America and Africa, and the wars of European powers as a mercenary force. It suffered greatly in the wars with the Swedes: Second Northern War (1655-1660) and the Great Nort