At the time Pori had around 300 involuntary residents. However, they soon recognised the advantages of their new location, which offered opportunities for profitable trading, amongst other things. Ship building has been important since the beginning of history of Pori. Shipyard started at the city behind the place where the main church is now situated. The biggest ship probably ever built in Pori "Porin Kraveli" was completed 1583. At the 17th century there were many restrictions for the trade. 1765 started the "golden age" for shipbuilding when the city got its staple rights again. The main shipyard was moved into Reposaari 1826 and ship building was increased so much, that there were several shipyards all along the coast of the region
