Sailing Lessons

[Eliza Creststeel]

Several here have hit it on the head.

Enemy ships ALL have the same tact. Once they detect you or have been hit, they make a beeline straight at you. Frigates front guns will ONLY fire lead shot as they come. Once they are within close range, they will turn (usually to port) and bring a broadside.

So, just keep an enemy facing toward you as your guns bring them down. Once too close, just pivot away - get some distance then turn back. Or, begin to move around them in a wide arc - they can only turn and pursue.