Reconnaissance
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Undoubtedly, the flute was the workhorse of 17th-century shipping. Built and equipped to carry large loads of bulk goods, the type sailed all corners of Northern Europe and could also be found in the Mediterranean, albeit accompanied by an armed escort. The VOC also used flutes for its intra-Asian trade. Flutes themselves carry little or no weaponry to defend themselves against pirates. The pinas was more suitable for that.