Could a single man, all by himself, comandeer a ship in the 19th century?

Question

If not, what would likely happen?

Answer 1

It depends on the size of the ship. Theoretically a single individual could commandeer a sloop of war or a small brig, provided he had the knowledge and physical skills to sail it by himself. Any war ship larger would be virtually impossible to commandeer with just one person. Even if the ships crew wasn't an issue, getting the ship underway would be virtually impossible.

Answer 2

If you mean a freight or cruise ship, a single man could give orders (the captain) and steer the ship, but a single man could not be the only man on board. He needed a navigator and numbers of men to do maintenance and any tasks that require lots of strength (hoisting sails, things like that...) If the boat was steam-powered, he needed a guy in the boiler room and a guy checking the machinery.

Answer 3

Not likely. A single man would have had a hard time convincing the crew of a ship to do his bidding. A small ship with a small crew, maybe. But even then almost every ship and crew was armed to defend itself from pirates, so likely someone would have shot the guy before too long.

Answer 4

My niece asked me that after she watched POTC. It may be possible for a lone man to sail a smaller warship or cargo ship, but not very well. During a sea chase, as in a race, constant adjustments must be made to the rigging, sails, and even the hull. Shifting of cargo, passengers, etc can add a half-knot here and there.

So if Jack Sparrow...er Captain Jack Sparrow, were to steal a ship by himself, he might possibly get it underway, though he'd stuggle with the anchor, but once underway, he'd be easily overtaken.

Answer 5

Do you mean captain or capture? If captain, easily. A captain was considered master after God. If you signed on. You were stuck. He could be a sadist, an eccentric, or just plain an all out nut. But you obeyed his orders or could be hung. Mutiny! The British Navy was particularly harsh that way. Alleged mutineers were hunted forever. If caught, the normal punishment was hanging at the yardarm regardless of the reasons. It was considered the only way to maintain discipline......

Answer 6

it greatly depends on the size of the ship. but if the ship is big, it will be hard to maintain it. if that happens, he would be either get lost in the sea or reach another destination. i can't explain it here well so i hope you understand a bit. Hope this helps

Answer 7

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