The central islands of the Inner Archipelago and the warm, shallow, protected seas that hold them are the most populated and wealthiest region of The Thousand Isles.
Sitting astride the seasonal east/west trade winds allow the Islanders to enjoy a privileged position connecting the trade of two continents (Valtentis and Great Mbo) in addition to allowing them to easily move their own local goods to those markets. Trade has allowed some elements of society to become extremely wealthy. It is said in Haven Towne that there is no good produced anywhere in the world that cannot be had for a price.
The Inner Archipelago states are constantly at war, each state fielding large war fleets as well, mostly Galleys and Galleas for use in the shallow water of the inner archipelago. The seas are also teaming with massive trading ships, Galleons and Fluyts. In addition, small fast Sloops, Brigantines, Barks and others are prolific for local trade especially in the more far-flung and less populated Reaches.
Inspiration
In addition to the same 17th century Caribbean inspiration of the overall The Thousand Isles, the Inner Archipelago also draws inspiration from the 17th century Mediterranean, especially in the naval warfare / large galley fleets respect.