The Science of Pirate Ships: How They Floated

Understanding Pirate Ships' Design and Function

The myth of pirate ships may often be fuelled by Hollywood’s dramatized tales, but in reality, they shared the same fundamental principles as any other ship. A ship floats because it is lighter than the water it displaces, a basic principle of buoyancy discovered by the ancient Greek mathematician Archimedes. This article delves into the science behind how pirate ships floated and their typical characteristics during the golden age of piracy.

What Makes a Ship Float

The principle of buoyancy is consistent across all ships, whether for the tiniest dinghy or the largest vessel. Simply put, a ship floats by being lighter than the water it displaces. Much like a balloon floats in air because it is lighter, a ship floats in water because it can hold a volume of water that weighs more than the ship itself.

Pirate Ship Varieties

During the golden age of piracy, most pirate vessels were either captured merchantmen or custom-built privateers that crossed the line into piracy. These were typically small and fast vessels suited for quick attacks and fast escapes. Unlike the romanticized ships like the Black Pearl or the Flying Dutchman depicted in films, real pirate ships were grounded in reality.

A Real Example: Queen Anne's Revenge

Queen Anne's Revenge, a formidable vessel that belonged to the notorious pirate Blackbeard, exemplifies this. The ship was originally a three-masted former slave ship/privateer converted into a powerful warship. It carried 30 guns and could accommodate 300 men to man them. Physical attributes of Queen Anne's Revenge were quite impressive. It was 103 feet (31.4 meters) in length and 24.6 feet (7.5 meters) in width, with a displacement of around 200-300 tons.

Design and Function

Queen Anne's Revenge, like any other ship, was designed to keep the hull watertight and to prevent water from entering while ensuring that air remained within the ship's compartments. This was achieved through carefully designed watertight compartments, doors, and plating. By minimizing water intake and maximizing the displacement of water, the ship ensured it remained afloat and navigable.

Conclusion

The truth about pirate ships is grounded in scientific principles such as buoyancy and displacement. By understanding the design and function of real pirate vessels like Queen Anne's Revenge, we can appreciate how they were able to float and function effectively. It's a blend of engineering, nautical knowledge, and practicality that defined the maritime strategies of pirates during the 17th and 18th centuries.