"The ship was masted according to the proportion of the navy; but on my application the masts were shortened, as I thought them too much for her, considering the nature of the voyage"

The quote from William Bligh offers insight into maritime practices and Bligh's thoughtful technique toward nautical expeditions. Bligh, a renowned British marine officer and navigator, is traditionally famous for his role in the infamous "Mutiny on the Bounty". This declaration shows his understanding of naval architecture and the importance of customizing a ship's style to its specific objective.

Bligh points out that the ship was at first "masted according to the proportion of the navy", suggesting that there were standard practices and measurements utilized when outfitting a ship with masts. These standards were most likely established to suit most of marine vessels and objectives, optimizing for speed, maneuverability, and balance. The masts are a vital element of any cruising vessel, as they support the sails, which move the ship through wind power. Therefore, the height and size of the masts would significantly influence the ship's efficiency.

Nevertheless, Bligh exercises his authority and judgment by making an application for a modification, arguing that "the masts were shortened". This decision underscores his practical leadership and versatility. By thinking about "the nature of the trip", Bligh shows an understanding that each journey could have special needs, threats, and requirements. Shortening the masts may reflect an anticipation of particular weather conditions, a need for higher stability, or an intention to prioritize security over speed.

In essence, the quote emphasizes Bligh's attention to information and determination to differ standardized steps for a customized method. This proactive procedure shows his dedication to guaranteeing the objective's success while protecting his team and ship. Bligh's decision-making procedure showcases the balance in between sticking to recognized norms and working out personal know-how to adapt to particular circumstances, highlighting his depth of experience and insight in naval command.