Minimum # of ships in blockade?

[Pistachio]

Is the number of blockading ships a factor in the effectiveness of the blockade? Or can you just as well blockade with 1 ship (assuming it is in a fleet)?

Thanks!

[steel god]

A good question, and one I would love a clear answer to myself.

Based on what I have observed (note: not read anywhere) it definitely seems that there are calculations involved in determining the effectiveness of a blockade. What that may entail I can not say, but more seems to be better for blockade purposes, and the presence of Frigates and possibly 4th Rates, seems essential to a complete blockade.

Now, I could be completely off base with that, but for me it feels right and I try to have 6-8 ships in a blockade of an empty port, with at least 2 Frigates or 4th rates in that container. Obviously if there's an enemy fleet in port the blockade is by a real fleet (but still always some frigates in the container).

[Pistachio]

Yeah I looked through the manual but it is mute on this. Thanks for your suggestion; I'll keep the mix of frigates and 4th rates for now. I've been sort of doing as you suggest but have been wondering if I could get away with (or do better with) 4-5 4th rates in the blockade (if the port is empty of fleets) and the bulk of my ships in a larger fleet out at sea with "intercept" selected - especially in Biscay - so as not to tie up my fleets in stifling trade.

Thanks again!