Piracy

According to Deep Dive it is a nearly daily event,...

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Ahoy there!

I must commend the comprehensive research and thoughtful analysis present in this article. It’s indeed a breath of fresh sea air to see a writer who doesn't shy away from dismantling pervasive myths and instead, offers a perspective that's both well-informed and grounded in facts.

As a seasoned sailor and avid prepper, I've had my fair share of conversations about piracy and its perceived dangers. From my grandfather, I inherited not just a love for the sea but also a respect for the realities that come with it - including the consideration of potential threats like piracy. However, your article does a splendid job of putting these risks into perspective with data and comparisons that are both illuminating and sobering.

It reminds us that while the sea holds its dangers, so does the land. In fact, the statistics you've shared suggest that the land might even be a bit more perilous, at least when considering violent crimes.

It's also noteworthy to highlight your point about the option of sailing away to safer waters, which aligns with my own SHTF plan. A sailboat, especially one equipped for self-sufficiency like mine, offers a unique escape route in times of societal collapse. As you've rightly pointed out, the open sea offers a kind of freedom and safety that might not be available on land.

For those considering a liveaboard lifestyle or planning their own bug-out strategies, this article is a treasure trove of insights. Might I suggest delving a bit more into the self-sufficient aspects of liveaboard life in future articles? It would be a great addition to this already enlightening discussion.

Until then, fair winds and following seas!

Emily Kensington.

Hey there fellow seafarers! Emily Smith here, liveaboard 'Sea Breeze', a 35-foot sloop, my little sanctuary on water. This article surely sparked some thoughts, and I'd like to share my two cents, coming from a prepper's perspective.

I agree with the author that the fear of piracy is usually overblown. Living on the water for years now, I've realized that, like all risks, it's about preparedness and vigilance. I've sailed across some coastlines known for piracy, and my approach has always been to study the area, understand the risks, and plan my route and timings to minimize exposure. In my experience, avoiding hotspots and being aware of one's surroundings can significantly reduce the chances of encountering such threats.

Just as we prepare for a storm or a power outage, we should prepare for the unlikely event of piracy. Educate yourself about the areas you're sailing to, keep your radios tuned, and maintain a low profile - these are some of the basics. It's also wise to have a contingency plan in place. In my case, my SHTF plan involves bugging out to a secluded island, away from potential threats.

Drawing parallels between land-based crime and piracy is interesting and puts things into perspective. However, it's important to remember that the dynamics are different. On the water, you have the advantage of mobility and vast expanses to use to your benefit.

As a single mom, safety is my utmost priority. So, I've equipped 'Sea Breeze' with security features, like a robust alarm system and a hidden safe for our valuables. I believe that confidence in your security measures can bring peace of mind and allow you to enjoy the freedom and serenity that living on the water offers.

To all the liveaboards and sailors out there, stay safe, stay prepared, and remember, the sea is vast, and the chance of a pirate encounter is not as high as the media portrays it. Keep sailing and keep exploring!

As a seasoned sailor and a dedicated prepper, I find this article absolutely enlightening. The statistics shared here are a breath of fresh air, dispelling the myth of rampant piracy and offering a balanced perspective.

In my experience sailing along the Florida coast and even venturing out into the Atlantic, the threat of piracy has always been overshadowed by the raw power and unpredictability of the sea itself. It's like charting a course through life, where the waves and storms we weather shape us more than the fear of an unlikely encounter with a pirate.

Your comparison of piracy incidents to land-based crimes is eye-opening. As someone who's been prepping for about a decade now, I've always had an understanding that threats exist both on land and sea. Seeing the numbers, it's evident that we might be safer out on the open waters than in our own backyards.

In the context of a societal collapse, the idea of using a well-equipped sailboat as a bug-out vehicle seems more prudent than ever. As you've rightly pointed out, the sea offers escape routes that land simply cannot. My family and I have been preparing our 40-foot sailboat for just such a scenario. Equipped with solar panels, a water desalination system, and ample storage for supplies, our boat serves as our mobile sanctuary.

To anyone considering a similar path, I'd recommend focusing on mastering basic sailing skills and understanding your vessel's capabilities first. Also, remember that prepping isn't just about having the right gear; it's about having the right mindset.

Thank you for this thought-provoking piece. It not only reaffirms my love for the sea and sailing but also underscores the importance of being prepared, whether we're bracing for a storm at sea or navigating the uncertainties of life.

Great article! As a seasoned prepper and sailor, I can attest to the misconception about piracy often outweighing the actual risk. It's crucial to remember that preparedness isn't just about expecting the worst, but also understanding the real probabilities of different scenarios.

I appreciate the comparison you make between the frequency of piracy and the frequency of school shootings or violent crime. It's a sobering perspective that highlights the importance of context when we consider what threats to prepare for.

To add to your point about options in case of societal collapse, being a boater does provide a unique advantage. With a boat like my 'Seafarer', one can relocate to safer waters when necessary.

Yet, it's worth noting that this doesn't make us invulnerable. Pirates might not be the most pressing threat, but there are other challenges in the open sea. From harsh weather to navigation hazards, a well-maintained boat and a good understanding of the sea are essential.

I suggest a follow-up article on preparing for these marine-specific challenges. It could include practical tips on maintaining a seaworthy vessel, essential sailing skills, weather prediction, as well as advice on the best places to anchor in a crisis. This would provide a more rounded view of the self-sufficiency aspect of living aboard.

Lastly, I loved your point about the tranquility and freedom that comes with living on water. Despite the survivalist angle, there's a distinct romance to sailing that complements the more pragmatic aspects of preparedness.

Again, great read. Keep 'em coming!

Ahoy there! As a fellow sailor and prepper, I thoroughly appreciated this article. You've done a great job of putting piracy in perspective as compared to other more immediate, land-based threats.

I've often found myself in conversations with other preppers who have a heightened fear of piracy, but as you've rightly pointed out, the stats don't justify the paranoia. Yes, it happens, but so does land-based crime, often at a much higher frequency.

In my 10 years of prepping and sailing, I've come to realize that the best defense against pirates or any other potential threat is a combination of awareness, preparation, and adaptability. On our 40-foot sailboat, my family and I have taken measures that go beyond the standard radar detectors and communication devices. We've installed solar-powered security cameras and motion sensors, and we run regular drills to ensure we're prepared to face any potential threats.

I'd urge my fellow sailors and preppers not to let the fear of piracy deter you from the lifestyle and freedom that living aboard offers. Instead, let's focus on equipping ourselves better and educating others about the real stats and preventive measures.

Lastly, I'd suggest adding some practical advice on how to handle potential piracy scenarios. Maybe include some basic tips on avoiding known piracy hotspots, maintaining constant communication with local authorities and other boats in the vicinity, and what to do in case of an actual encounter with pirates. That'd surely help quell some fears and provide valuable info for those new to the boating community.

Smooth sailing to all, and remember, preparation is key!