Naval Convoys in Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced can be a serious hurdle early in the game, especially when you are forced to fight multiple ships at once. However, they are a primary source of Reales and valuable ship-based loot. Mastering these encounters is essential if you want to keep the Jackdaw battle-ready.

How to Successfully Board the Lead Ship

To finish a Naval Convoy event, your goal is to board and commandeer the lead ship. While it is escorted by at least two smaller vessels, the lead ship is the only one you must capture to complete the event.

  1. Immobilize the Lead Ship: Deal enough damage to the lead ship until it is unable to move.
  2. Initiate Boarding: Sail the Jackdaw alongside and hold the boarding prompt (Triangle/Y) to transition to combat.
  3. Reduce Morale: Once on board, deplete the enemy's morale by killing the crew, cutting the flag at the top of the main mast, or destroying gunpowder stores on the deck.

Be cautious when destroying gunpowder stores; while they help clear the deck, they can also damage you and your crew if you are standing too close.

Tactics for Tough Naval Engagements

If you find yourself being scuttled by convoys, follow these steps to improve your survival rate:

  • Upgrade the Jackdaw: Early-game ships are often too weak for these fights. Visit Harbourmasters to prioritize upgrades for your broadside cannons, mortar, and hull.
  • Target Escorts Early: Use mortar fire at the start of the engagement to damage or destroy the smaller escort ships. This prevents them from chipping away at your health while you focus on the lead vessel.
  • Board the Escorts: While not mandatory, boarding the smaller ships is a great tactical move. It allows you to select the 'Repair' option to recover the Jackdaw's health before the main fight begins.
  • Use Your Swivel Guns: As you prepare to board, quickly man the swivel guns to target enemy crew or red barrels to drop the enemy's morale before the actual fight starts.
  • Master the Brace: Hold the brace button (Square/X) when you see the orange glow of enemy cannon fuses. If you have the 'Perfect Brace' officer upgrade, timing this correctly will significantly reduce incoming damage.

Managing Rewards

After you win the boarding action, you will be given several options for your prize. In most cases, selecting the Captain's Lockbox is the best strategy as it provides extra Reales and crew members. If you have an empty berth, you can also send the ship to Kenway's Fleet to earn extra resources, or use the victory to lower your Wanted Level if you are being hunted by Pirate Hunters. These resources are vital for trading with the Treasure Hunter in Great Inagua to complete your treasure maps.