Tired of ships attacking

[Tuefenhandel]

I spent about a week or so strictly sailing recently - mostly as a break from weapons leveling. It was the first time that I got in the habit of opening up the crew to public, and I really liked the result. For the most part, it attracted pirates who were interested in (a) gold, and (b) leveling their cannon.

Sure, there were a few who just wanted to drive the big ship.

So, I would recommend that you try that route to provide yourself with the benefit of additional gunners. If all the cannons are firing, you shouldn't have too much trouble with the extra attention!

Another tip that seems to be often ignored: sail with your compass. If you zoom in as far as possible, then you can only get within a half of the radius distance before a ship will engage (rule of thumb only, not scientifically evaluated). Line of sight sailing is too unreliable. Engage the enemy before it engages you.

For the record - I am all for the premise that as a pirate, you're a live target for any ship.