User Manual

aren’t in perfect shape, do not engage in long sea voyages where you might encounter pirates or
storms. Furthermore, damaged ships have a reduced capacity, worse manoeuvrability, and a
slower maximum speed. If you repair your ships regularly, you can reduce signs of wear and tear
(caused by long voyages, anchoring on the high seas, icebergs and storms) to a minimum.
Building Ships
If you want to build a new ship, you should visit the shipyard of your hometown or that of any
town in which you own a trading office. When you click on the shipyard, a window will open.
Choose the ‘Build Ship’ option. (see ‘The Shipyard’ in chapter 10)
Ship Names
Shipwrights are fairly unimaginative when it comes to choosing names for your ships, but you
could have any name you wish painted on its walls by visiting the shipyard when your ship is in
town.
Convoys
Long voyages can sometimes be dangerous, for even competitors will sometimes attack you if
they think they can get an advantage out of it. The weather can also be hazardous, so watch
those little clouds on the sea chart. Given all these dangers, it can be advisable to group your
ships in a convoy. Pirates will then be frightened by the sheer firepower of your ships.
Forming a Convoy
As soon as you select a ship that is not part of a convoy, a button will be enabled in the icon bar.
Click on it if you want to form a convoy. However, there are certain restrictions, because at least
one of your ships must be suitable as an orlogship, the leader of a convoy.
An orlogship must…
• not be damaged over 50%
• be armed sufficiently (weapons strength 10)
• have a comparatively large crew (at least 20 men)
• be led by a captain
If your ship does not meet these requirements, you will be informed. You can either try to
upgrade your ship or add your ship to a public convoy formed by one of your competitors
instead.
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