Lesson 1 – How to Set Sail Like a Pro
So, you’ve just logged in, dove into a new server, or merged into one. What’s the first thing you do? If your answer isn’t check the map for Reapers, congratulations—you've just signed up for a surprise PvP lesson. And trust me, those lessons usually end with your ship at the bottom of the ocean.
Step 1: Check the Map, Check the Horizon
Reapers love nothing more than an easy kill, and an unaware crew is exactly that. Always scan the map for their telltale icon. But don't stop there—keep an eye on the horizon too. The Sea of Thieves isn’t as vast as it seems, and ships can appear faster than you’d expect. If you’re not looking, you will get rolled up on.
Step 2: Douse the Lights & Ditch the Anchor
Leaving your lanterns on is a dead giveaway that you’re a swabbie (newbie). Experienced pirates see glowing ships as free loot deliveries, so turn those lights off. As for the anchor—don’t even think about leaving it down. The moment you spawn in, raise it. I don’t care if you’re still at an outpost stocking up—get that thing up immediately. Sitting at an outpost with your anchor down is how you become prime pickings.
Step 3: Stock Up Like You Expect a Fight
Never assume you'll avoid combat just because you don’t want a fight. This is a game about piracy—other ships do care, and they will chase you down. Keep the old saying in mind: “If you seek peace, prepare for war.” Gather supplies, organize them, and don’t set sail empty-handed.
Step 4: Fill Your Pockets Before You Go
Before you raise those sails, grab essentials—planks, food, and cannonballs. Pineapples? Save those for battle. Pomegranates? Perfect for everyday scuffles. And always, always have cannonballs on hand. Nothing's worse than scrambling mid-fight because you forgot to stock up.
Once you've checked for Reapers, scanned the horizon (twice), doused the lights, raised the anchor, gathered supplies, and filled your pockets—now you're ready to set sail.
This was Lesson 1: How to Set Sail Without Looking Like a Swabbie. More hard-learned lessons to come. Fair winds, and safe sailing!
