flota

The term "flota" refers to a fleet of Spanish ships. From the 16th to the 18th centuries, Spain organized regular convoys of ships between Spain and its American colonies. These convoys, known as the Spanish treasure fleet, transported goods to the colonies and returned with valuable products like gold and silver.12

Typically, two fleets sailed annually: the flota went to Vera Cruz, Mexico, while the galeones sailed to Cartagena and Porto Bello. After wintering in America, both fleets met in Havana and returned to Spain together, protected by warships. The immense wealth carried by these fleets made them targets for English, Dutch, and French sailors, though they often presented a formidable challenge. By the 18th century, Spain's policies changed, and the fleet system declined, with the flota being discontinued in 1789.2