War Galleon With the Galleon one of the most popular type of heavy ships in 16th century in main European fleets, many variations were built to accomodate the growing needs of European navies. War Galleons were both trade and of war vessels bristling with heavy cannons and many crewmembers. and great hold capacity. Though its limited maneuverability makes the War Galleon unsuitable for combat in shallows or near short, in the open sea, it is a force to be reckoned with.