Played with a group and a friend who was sailing his brand new purple Vic, first legit 1st rate he had. Group of 4-5 people sailed against 7-8 NPC 3rd rates. Friend was sailing undercrewed, got boarded, and was captured. Friendly L’Ocean recaptured his Vic but couldn’t sail it away and escape - friendly Ocean was getting pounded but managed to escape - other friends were either sank or escaped.
Toughest, longest battle ever - lost a friendly Vic and a couple other 2nd/3rd rates. Was sailing a Christian alone against 6 remaining 3rd rates. After an hour of maneuvering, shooting, and repairing, sunk all enemies and was able to recapture the Vic and give it back. I’ve lost my first legit 1st rate, know how it feels - giving one back to a friend makes it all ok.