Looking for sources on mid XVIIth century vessels (merchants, pirates etc.)

[Fortescue-Smythe]

The title says it all, pretty much: I'm starting a role-playing campaign loosely based on the 1640s to 1650s Caribbean (with a bit of weird science and some tentacles tossed in for seasoning).

Now I'm on the lookout for sources (books, internet sites, forums) to fill me in on the fine detail of what ships looked like in that period. While Rod Langton's models cover the high end of big warships to my heart's content, I have difficulty finding out about the smaller vessels that would have plied the Spanish Main. Sources are plentiful for the mid-XVIIIth, but for the mid 1600s I cannot find  much.

So, gentlemen, any links, hints, thoughts? I would be most grateful indeed.

[Captain Blood]

Don't know about authoritative primary sources, but I have the Osprey New Vanguard title 'The Pirate Ship 1660-1730' (New Vanguard 70) which is a pretty good overview with lots of lovely illustrations.

I also have the Osprey Fortress title 'The Spanish Main 1492-1800' (Fortress 49) which is a very nice book detailing what was going on with shore installations... Again, beautifully illustrated.

No hesitation recommending both titles.

[Furt]

I have a great source titled "The Heyday of Sail: The Merchant Sailing Ship 1650 - 1830" from Conway.

It may be a tad expensive but covers everything you want.

http://www.amazon.com/Heyday-Sail-Merchant-Sailing-1650-1830/dp/0785812660/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1261511474&sr=1-3

[Fortescue-Smythe]

Thank you, those look like good candidates. Let's see how much book money Santa brings to my door.