Fishing and defense. However, a number of other accomplishments are worth highlighting on the Guipuzcoana Company's credit. In addition to the services provided to the Royal Treasury, the Company was responsible for safeguarding the Venezuelan coast. To this end, it equipped numerous small vessels capable of navigating the rugged American coastline. Coastal protection was complemented by increased land control, for which the Guipuzcoana Company retained officers at considerable expense. Beyond its commercial operations, the Guipuzcoana Company conducted fishing experiments off the coast of Cumaná, in addition to promoting settlement in those areas.