Cargo

A pirate's vessel can hold various plunder taken from the ships they sink. The cargo varies widely, but the larger and most dangerous the vessel - usually the more valuable the cargo found.

Boarding flagships can result in more and better plunder. Also, captains having the Treasure Sense ability of the Sailing skill can locate the best booty to take.

Crates
These are standard shipping boxes containing basics and essentials, but sometimes a pleasant surprise.

Treasure Chest
Now, we're talking BOOTY, lads - real currency of the realm!

Royal Chest
These beauties contain the finest pretties one can find. When the crew says they were hoping for something more... SHINY, this is what they meant. However, a pirate will likely have to undertake major opposition for such rewards.

Cargo Capacity
The maximum amount of plunder you can carry will depend upon the type and size of your vessel. Each type of cargo takes up one slot in your hold.

Once a ship's hold is full, any NEW plunder will replace the old IF the new items found are more valuable. So, a dedicated pirate could eventually fill their ship with all royal chests. But, remember - if you're sunk, it's all lost.

Cargo Hold
During a prolonged voyage, a pirate may not remember all they have plundered. At any time, even when not aboard your own ship - you can check the manifest. Simply click on the Cargo Crate icon in the upper-left and a list of total number of Crates and Chests will appear by type.

This manifest will NOT total the actual contents or their worth in gold, but it is helpful in telling a pirate what kind of plunder they're pulling in.