
It is natural to idealize the role pirates have played throughout history. The idea of sailing the seven seas aboard a wooden galleon, above the law, and answering only to your captain (whose whimsical view of life makes him as much a lover of freedom as you are) is extremely attractive. This, of course, until one considers the daily reality of pirate life.
Seasickness
While most pirates were “good sailors” (and those who weren’t soon got used to the movement of the ship or risked being thrown overboard), seasickness was still a common ailment during the rainy season. The mere stench of a nauseous pirate was enough to make the rest of the crew lean over the side of the ship.
Bathing
The smell of sick comrades was not the only thing accompanying pirates on their adventures around the world. Dirty, foul-smelling bodies were abundant aboard pirate ships! Freshwater was such a valuable resource that it couldn’t be wasted on personal hygiene; meanwhile, seawater irritated the skin and caused friction with clothes, worsening the condition.
High Risk
Mutilation, the loss of an eye, and exposure to countless wounds during fights were clear disadvantages of being a pirate. This doesn’t even mention the high risk of death during battles or at the hands of enemies who often became their executioners.
Basic Diet
Far from gourmet food, the food options aboard a pirate ship were extremely limited. Docking at a port was considered a risky luxury just to satisfy those cravings. Fresh supplies lasted at most a couple of weeks, and dried foods became the staple of a pirate’s diet once the meat ran out.
Diseases
Aside from the lack of personal hygiene, the deficiency of vitamin C and other nutrients found in fresh fruits and vegetables meant that easily preventable diseases were common aboard pirate ships.
Democratic Tyranny
Believe it or not, pirates in the Golden Age were staunch supporters of democracy. Voting governed many aspects of daily life. Except during battles, when the captain had absolute authority, all other positions were voted on, and authority was distributed.
Acceptance of Homosexuality
Homosexuality was common aboard pirate ships, and throughout history, there are reports of the first same-sex marriages or civil unions, which allowed two men to share property rights—particularly important in the event of a death.
As you can see, the life of a pirate wasn’t all treasure maps and swashbuckling glory—it was filled with hardships, risks, and challenges. But that’s what makes the stories of pirates so captivating!
So, hoist the Jolly Roger, gather your crew, and join us on an unforgettable pirate escapade. Book your tickets now and let’s set sail for adventure—pirate style! Call us to make your purchase or get more info at (52) 998 242 6802.