During the period of Danish rule in the 11th century a standing fleet was maintained by taxation , and this continued for a time under the restored English regime of Edward the Confessor , who frequently commanded fleets in person . During the period of Danish rule in the 11th century the authorities maintained a standing fleet by taxation , and this continued for a time under the restored English regime of Edward the Confessor ( reigned 1042-1066 ) , who frequently commanded fleets in person .