This work is the first comprehensive historical and archaeological investigation into the maritime organization of the port of Faversham, Kent, SE England. Faversham, a multi-functional town, was well placed to take advantage of its maritime position in the Swale, its closeness to Canterbury, and the need to ship grain to London from this fertile crescent of North Kent. An examination of the original and early development of the port is complemented by an analysis of the ships and port administration. Unique methods of ship operation and manning are investigated, and a comprehensive survey of the shipping fleets of Kent during their formative years undertaken. This study is also concerned with analyzing the variety of mercantile responses to marketing opportunities.