Piracy and Theft Today During Covid-19 While Cruising in The Caribbean | Sailing Balachandra E095

[@ChiChi-dy9qi]

Piracy is one of the biggest things I worry about, sailing alone.

[@user-lv7ph7hs7l]

@Cory Drybrough Putting bounties on people's heads as a private citizen is a crime fyi... It's basically murder. People who pay hitmen usually face murder charges.

[@SOLDOZER]

You drive down the highway going 75 and the only thing protecting you from colliding head on with another vehicle is a yellow painted line. But piracy is what worries you in life...

[@ChiChi-dy9qi]

@@SOLDOZER Actually, no. On the highway I can outrun a pirate and there are police . Also, my skills help me avoid not colliding with other cars, not a silly line on the road. At sea it's a tad different, pirates are fast, well armed and there's usually more than one. So yes, pirates are what I worry about. Risk assessment is part of any adventure.

[@ChiChi-dy9qi]

@Cory Drybrough Good point.

[@ljgarrison8374]

It can happen anywhere. For me it was the USVI in 2002. Terrifying...a “I shouldn’t be alive” story. Keep a watchful eye on the locals. Cruisers be safe out there.

[@billyehh]

Being Close to Venezuela is a problem. Most of the pirates range up to 100 miles which puts Grenada and the Southern Grenadines in range. For a while they raided Chatham Bay on Union Island. A mayday will not help because of the high hills surrounding the bay. They installed a cell tower and now you can call 911. It still takes the police abou 4o minutes to arrive so they time it to get out before they arrive. Lifting you dinghy every night is not just a precaution, but also helps to keep it clean. The most sought after engine is the Yamaha Enduro 15hp two stroke. Theft by fellow cruisers is also a problem. Unlike 40 - 50 years ago, we have to keep things locked up.

[@SailingZatara]

Love your thumbnails; very catchy! 😄 Renee

[@IrishLegend64]

Exactly why i clicked hahahh

[@asasial1977]

This is why I don’t understand the stigma of a firearm on a boat, or in general. It’s like people want to be victims. It is very bizarre to me. People lose their nerve when they realize they don’t have the upper hand.

[@ChiChi-dy9qi]

I agree, we should be able to defend ourselves.

[@RichardPhillips10]

If you sail only in one country where your firearm is licensed, fine - but if you are going to sail internationally this is a world of complication and potential pain.

[@connannbarbarin3033]

@@RichardPhillips10 not more then if you sail with a dog

[@robertfreeman2322]

those two targets on ais that you couldn't see are probably fishing buoy markers that use ais as a signal. I'm a commercial fisherman and I use about 20 of them. I use the ones that are specific for our use where I can send a signal to them to transmit to my vessel only or to other vessels so they can see them. they are regulated in the states and the receiver system is expensive. The problem is that you can buy the chinese model ais fishing bouys online cheap and they just put out a signal and don't comply with American fcc laws but they work just the same. Everyone was using them about 5 yrs ago but the cargo ships and tankers were losing their minds when they would come up on the bank such as approaches to new york and there was ten longline tuna boats string out 20 miles of gear with 15 ais bouys on each string! that's alot of targets! they were regulated and we face 20,000 dollar fines if we use them without a receiver to transmit only to our vessel. If you see ais targets near a known commerial fishing vessel and you can't see the targets, it's probably an uregulated ais bouy. They put out an accurate position but the speed is not real as i've had some of mine say they were doing 12 knots all the time. The chinese made ais puts the battery level in there to and you'll see something in the info that says 12.1v or 11.8v etc and that's to let the fisherman known when he gets his bouy back that he should charge it. they put out a signal sometimes as far as 10 miles in the right conditions. they have become super duper popular with fisherman because instead of a 1200 dollar radio beacon thrown over the side you can have a 50 dollar ais bouy that you can see on a plotter. they are not regulated outside of the states but don't quote me on that because i use a british made receiver so maybe in the UK the shipping got fed up too.

[@robertfreeman2322]

If they were using them for drugs which i'm sure they do sometimes you'd think they'd have receivers onboard and just give the pickup boat the transmit code. it doesn't make sense to let everyone know where the drop is. then again i'm not a 3rd world drug dealer so what do i know!! ;0

[@SailingBalachandra]

That explains a lot, thanks for this insight! My concern was that neither the buoys or the fishing vessel had any lights on- running totally dark... if we had seen at least one standard nav light or steaming light we would have let our guard down a little.

[@jefflukowski9246]

Great video and perfect timing. My wife and I struck up this exact topic in conversation last night. Running dark must be stressful. I like the advice to just keep moving as fast as possible and don't stop. One question that I have is why sailors don't reach for the VHF the instant they feel that they are being attacked. In my mind, I think it is because sailors are hopeful and constantly making decisions about boat movement and actions to determine whether it is a threat or not. There must be a tipping point where the intentions of an approaching boat are very clear, and then you can reach for the flares, VHF and EPIRB. Since it hasn't happened to me, I would love to hear from other sailors on the topic.

[@SailingBalachandra]

Interesting points! I was told of a yacht that was approached by a small craft and men carrying machine guns and the crew prepared to put up a defense but at the last second the men called out that they were CUSTOMS and wanted to escort them in safely!?! What would have hapenned if the crew fired a flare at the men...

[@jefflukowski9246]

@@SailingBalachandra exactly!

[@MikeDQB]

@@SailingBalachandra I guess we all better hope pirates don't start yelling out "CUSTOMS" :).

[@lindagray1488]

We were robbed at Foxys in the BVI last March. They say it never happens there, thats all bull! . I believe it happens every few weeks and they just don't report .The police ( or what they call police) were absolutely no help.

[@SOLDOZER]

These Caribbean islands are mostly crime infested dumps. You should almost expect it.

[@wolddiego]

Hello New Subscriber from San Diego / Baja, Mexico...Former Law Enforcement Officer, Day Sailor and fisherman...Love the Episode on the Pirate attack...Very Good information and I would also Strongly Advise against carrying Firearms... Unless you can do so Legally in every Jurisdiction, which is highly unlikely and more likely to land you in Big Trouble with the Local Law...and Unless you are Trained and Prepared to use them... the majority of time your own weapon will be taken away and used against yourself...Obviously the best Defense against Would be Pirates is to Be Prepared and have a Plan...try to prevent them from getting on the boat in the first place...with Alarms, Sirens, bright Spot Lights, a loud PA system telling them to ''stay away the authorities have been notified''... ''you are being Recorded and Broadcasted on the Internet''...Have your own Display of Force such as Flairs, Fireworks and other Alternative Weapons ready to use that may be on board the boat including but not limited to; Flare guns, Spear guns, Hawaiian sling, shark bang sticks, fishing knives, sledge hammer...Tools such as a propane torch or Flame Thrower, nail gun (not that a cruising boat would normally carry a nail gun but if you had one charged and ready for Defensive Purposes, maybe you could convince Port Authorities that it was for work purposes and they would not confiscate it), same with a chainsaw, compressed air Tank with some kind of Projectile ready to fire...and in an Extreme Life or Death Emergency situation a Gasoline Bomb...(Molotov cocktail) is a breakable glass bottle containing a flammable substance such as gasoline/petrol or a napalm-like mixture, with some motor oil added, and usually a source of ignition such as a burning cloth wick held in place by the bottle's stopper. The wick is usually soaked in alcohol or kerosene, rather than gasoline. In action, the wick is lit and the bottle hurled at a target such as the Pirate's boat. When the bottle smashes on impact, the ensuing cloud of petrol droplets and vapour ignites, causing an immediate fireball followed by a raging fire as the remainder of the fuel is consumed. A poor man's grenade if you will could be assembled from household products...MacGyver style...Good Luck, (Disclaimer as I would not Recommend this or any kind of physical resistance against armed Pirates)..Almost forgot my High Tech Security Deterrent. The Drone !!! Fly a drone over the potential Pirates recording their every movement and their Faces with the Idea that they are Identified and the Whole World is Watching Them...again Be Prepared and Mentally Tough to do whatever it takes to Survive...Good Luck

[@LoanwordEggcorn]

A gun is the best and safest tool for self defense. That's proven in U.S. crime statistics by the U. S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics, and it's also why police use them. The other improvised weapons are unreliable and will get you killed if the pirates have guns. Unfortunately private gun ownership is illegal in most countries, which is ridiculous since it violates the natural law of self-defense and self-preservation. It also facilitates crime and genocide since only criminals and governments will have guns. Forcing the law-abiding to be defenseless is inherently immoral and unethical and facilitates crime. That's part of why the U.S. has a Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. It's literally intended to be a defense against tyrannical government (see Alexander Hamilton and James Madison in Federalist papers 29 and 46 respectively), and armed self-defense is a natural right under natural law as recognized by America's founders.

[@robertwood6439]

Thanks for the information

[@eriksvsirocco]

Lol. Some fishing net buoys have AIS beacons... Paranoid. Some Fishermen are getting desperate to sell fish on some islands without tourists, going up to sailing vessels waving barracudas just to get shot at and have their attackers come to shore talking about their brave fight with AK weilding pirates.... Lol

[@Mike7O7O]

Very useful advice. Especially regarding using flares to scare off possible hijackers. Instead of the little hand held flares, I'd get the bigger versions that are fired using a flare gun. Firing anything between two boats is highly problematic, but you stand a better chance of hitting what you're aiming at, using a flare gun. The effective range would be less than 100 meters, I'd guess. Though I'm not an expert with flare guns. I have been to the Dominican Republic and its a place that I'd stay well clear of. The general population are very poor and view anybody from an advanced industrial country as a magic money tree. Not everyone. But the majority.

[@SailingBalachandra]

There are a lot of cruisers in the a DR but yes, theft is a big problem there.

[@agentstaple1]

To be honest I think one of those beefy slingshots that have an arm brace might also be a pretty decent deterrant, keep a big bag of marbles with it, getting hit in the head with one of those would probably kill you quite easily. Though I wouldn't want to push them into using guns, atleast it's an option, plus it'd be fun to have and you could hunt rabbits and stuff with it too.

[@jjohnson8977]

Now that looked like a fun night of drinking. I mean cra z y cra cra

[@SailingBalachandra]

That was footage from the actual night- so fun. Double Mohitios... yeah

[@jjohnson8977]

@@SailingBalachandra its all fun until some one takes your dingy

[@tyzardoz]

I replied a year ago... And now I'm here in Grenada 😎 Heading for Trinidad soon for some refit and to hide from hurricane season. Where are you now? Fellow Cannuck here aboard the 34ft steel schooner Blue Dragon

[@fred5477]

This why you always carry guns on board. Keep them well hidden and never declare them. A Shotgun, a good rifle and at least one hand gun. Better to argue with a judge that with neptune. Remember, laws are never designed to protect you. They are designed to protect the governments enacting them.. Yes keep moving but just one or two rounds in their direction and they will break off..The best defense is an absolutely "rabid" offense.. Always take a knife to a fist fight and always take a gun to a knife fight. You only have one life. NEVER negotiate with individuals or governments for it, NEVER.

[@JohnMiller-ub8dy]

Absolutely right , disguise a hand gun in your engine room . Put it in a fake box on the wall and attach a few wires to it to make it look legitimate . Better safe than sorry.

[@wolfy6329]

I have an American flagged / registered Sailboat, Guns are permitted on board by Law.....I do carry a 9mm Sig Sauer and Colt 1911 always have, always will. One little difference though, I do declare both Pistols and ALL ammo when checking in, never had an issue and always have had the guns returned when checking out. If you do happen to get a surprise inspection and you didn't declare the Guns you could be in a hell of a lot of trouble. In Trinidad, while checking in after singlehanding for 4 days from Mona Pass I was quite tired and miscounted the ammunition that I was handing in to the Authorities.......by one Bullet.....ONE!!!! They kept me inside the Customs house from 0800 to 1700 writing out an apology letter to the officials...it was never just right and I had to keep writing and writing!!!!.....The Trini officials are just on a major power trip!!!!!!!! Only had to fire warning shots once......if I didn't have the guns, I wouldn't be writing this........that was off Trinidad headed to Grenada at 4 in the morning. I now want a Shot Gun to keep on board as well......

[@ChiChi-dy9qi]

I have to say I'd feel much safer with weapons onboard but I also agree with Wolfy, I would always declare them. No point aggravating the authorities if I don't have to.

[@williambullard2704]

I don't think I will be sailing with British flags identifying me then.

[@ChasingtheHorizon]

@@JohnMiller-ub8dy Dogs can smell gunpowder even if a weapon has been discharged months before. Dogs are also able to detect when a person is anxious or stressed. This is due to our increased heart rate and the surge of adrenaline through our veins. If someone is concealing a weapon and is worried about it, a police dog will immediately be alerted that something is off and will attempt to sniff it out. It is said that this is often how police dogs detect drug smugglers who are nervous. Also, if you've put together a 'fake box in the engine room,' it would have your scent all over it compared to other areas in that room, and the dog would definitely track to it when they search your vessel. Call me paranoid, but I've done a tad bit of research on the subject; Search dogs are remarkable creatures, absolutely insane. They're whole existence is to sniff out contraband, and their entire lives are dedicated to rigorous training. It's a finicky decision; Only you can make the call and take that risk. Overseas prisons don't take kindly to foreigners...

[@lemonadecitrus4764]

Usually in poor or under developed countries like in Africa or Sout East Asia piracy is common. In remote areas your facing not just pirate but wild animals that might pop up from no where. Just be careful!

[@AfricanFlightStar]

Very interesting thanks for that info 👍🏻

[@RichardPhillips10]

Never heard of pirates transmitting AIS - why would they do that? Most likely this was just fishing boats - but the line between pirates and fishing boats can get blurred in Venuzuela..

[@SailingBalachandra]

It depends on the pirates. The ones doing a drug deal put AIS transponders on the drug drop so it can be located by the "pickup" vessel which may have been what we sailed right through, however it may have been fishermen but fishermen do not usually run dark unless they are also worried about pirates

[@hapticboychuk2734]

I think fishermen and pirates are often one and the same. I've had fishermen try to rob me on land ( half-assed attempt) seems like opportunistic crime. They backed off when i showed no fear.

[@montanadan2524]

Not buying pirates on AIS, more likely boggiemen.

[@SOLDOZER]

They dont transmit AIS. This is a clickbait pirate story.

[@Antipodean33]

Unless you're sailing an 18 foot skiff and full tilt you ain't outrunning any boat with a decent outboard

[@magdasender7450]

Try to board moving vessel... you move not to outrun them, you move to stop them from boarding. They will not block you, there is always a risk of sinking both vessels after colision, and even if rescued - they would go to jail. It is not a valid option for pirates. Its the same as with on land - you never stop for "hey, you!" You never let them approach you.

[@jasguy2715]

@@magdasender7450 good advice we had some situations in the South Pacific but we are armed and just to say they don't pose any threat to anybody anymore

[@kajjeekanalenfan72]

@@jasguy2715 How is it being armed on international waters? The thought has crossed my mind as it’s the best protection, do you struggle to get into countries?

[@jasguy2715]

@@kajjeekanalenfan72 well it is true if you pull into a port of another country you're under their laws and jurisdiction. If they find weapons on your boat you can be in some kind of trouble. If you do a lot of sailing on the open seas that's a chance you're going to take if you want to be able to protect yourself. I would rather be alive and in trouble then be dead and that's the bottom line. There's some mean people out there and I have to laugh at these people that talk about arming themselves with spear guns and flare guns. that's just going to get the other side more pissed off if you try firing one of those things at them. You have to hide your weapons very very well with some type of camouflaged compartment. Most people sail on the open seas without having any problems or much of a problem but there's always a few that run into deadly situations and it could be any one of us at any time.

[@dennybarlau8065]

One thought I would keep a nail gun they can be used for more than emergency conditions nice show new viewer here ahoymatey

[@jacobtorres4352]

paslode

[@maxprivate3805]

Bear spray, spearguns, flare guns....

[@grahamt5924]

50 cal or mini gun would have to be my first choice, but I suppose a nail gun would be better than nothing.

[@wallytuescher2175]

Ortho wasp and hornet spray aka home defense. Someone is going to the hospital.

[@TommyboyGTP]

@@wallytuescher2175 Wasp or bug spray doesn't work, that's been debunked

[@anonpers0n]

cannons... my boat will have cannons :P

[@tyroneshulace3203]

You can make those. Ths is a naval cannon...kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6W1aWB5ns-hbbs .... And there is more .....

[@wcresponder]

Flares to pirates are a very dangerous thing.....just think what armor piercing incendiary rounds will do to their bowels.(ie massive release) yeah yeah yeah ....I know massive over response....it's still fun to dream.

[@SVJoana]

I have sailed for nearly 5 years in the Caribbean (visited Venezuela for 3 months), and through the Mallaca Straits (Malaysia-Singapore-Thailand) and through the Red Sea and am now in Turkey. In my opinion, running "dark" is very dangerous and the risk of collision with another boat is much higher than encountering pirates. I disagree with your suggestion of triggering an EPIRB if you suspect pirates. An EPIRB may bring help 4-5 days away, not an hour away. Immediate actions should include: make best speed possible, shine a very bright light on the suspects, blow your horn, use your loudhailer, call MayDay on VHF16 (helps a lot if your radio has your MMSI number and is configured to your GPS) and fire flares (initially overhead, but then at the vessel). We have never come across pirates, but, there have been many confusing situations, particularly with fishermen and always at night. Keep your radar and AIS on.

[@johnstark4723]

Never give a warning shot! They don't give you one!

[@SOLDOZER]

His suggestions are terrible.

[@nothing7162]

Just came across your channel! Hello fellow Canadians!

[@monkeyjunkyard9947]

You wanna avoid sailing without firearms. Although, the powers that be are educating the idiots to fear firearms in their own possession.....more than in the hands of pirates. Hence the word idiot.

[@rubbercheck72]

I would go so far as to "acquiring" an RPG if possible while sailing the 3rd world. Long gun with incendiary rounds, etc. Screw every single anti-gun moron. Peace through superior firepower.

[@wallytuescher2175]

If you're boarded use Ortho warp and hornet spray aka "home defense"(google it). To avoid getting it in your own eyes, only use it outside the cabin. It's Made to use at a distance(for hornets and wasps). Cheap, effective and readily available (at least in the US).

[@TommyboyGTP]

Ineffective plus with the winds on the water it will probably blow back in your face

[@wallytuescher2175]

@@TommyboyGTP ineffective is not the right word. Spray a little in your own eyes for a test. If you decide to test it you want 911 on standby. You could also try bear spray. Problem is it might be illegal in some countries like guns are. At least with wasp and hornet killer you could justify it as an insecticide. Plus if it will shoot 20 feet it will also shoot 5. Another idea would be to setoff your epirb to alert the coast guard. But then your depending on someone else and waiting who knows how long.

[@TommyboyGTP]

@@wallytuescher2175 tests have been done, it's no where near effective as pepper spray

[@TommyboyGTP]

@@wallytuescher2175 plenty of videos of people spraying themselves with wasp spray to show how ineffective it is. Bear spray isn't much better. It's just a weaker version of defensive pepper spray

[@bigeyetuna6228]

The haircut was a felony...

[@dboboc]

I hope he didn't pay someone to cut his hair like that on purpose.

[@johnstark4723]

Hahaha, I was thinking the same thing 🤣

[@dewae3254]

Well since it was a crime at sea i guess that makes him a pirate too

[@TommyboyGTP]

"we have no weapons on board" me either *wink* *wink*

I plan on sailing with seversl.

[@seymourbuttsesquire3252]

Other cruisers?! This needs a while episode of its own. Thanks for this.

[@SailingBalachandra]

Hard to believe but it's a real thing...

[@dboboc]

It’s a lame attempt at defending the locals concerning theft. They make it sound like locals only steal dinghies. They are well aware of the value of other cruising gear.

[@SOLDOZER]

Theft from others cruisers is more common than theft from locals.

[@draxe9121]

Its good to be aware of the threat of piracy and theft. Thank you for highlighting the issue. I'm sure you were unsettled during the night passage you described, but I cannot fathom why anyone intent on piracy would broadcast their AIS data. Its the vessels you don't see that are the most likely threat.

[@SailingBalachandra]

Today's Venezuelan pirates are not all out to take down a yacht- the ones exchanging drugs at sea are using ais (or something similar) so the pickup boat can locate the drop

[@agentstaple1]

Maybe that AIS flash was them trying to give him a headsup that they are just fishermen?

[@hapticboychuk2734]

Great vid😃👍🏻

[@ChiChi-dy9qi]

This is the most informative thing I've seen on this subject. Thank you.

[@observer4467]

Really ?

[@SriramNarayanan78]

@@observer4467 do you have any other references to share with the rest of us? I’ve been wondering about piracy, though my region of interest is South East Asia.

[@SOLDOZER]

Its clickbait campfire stories. Nothing informative.

[@ChiChi-dy9qi]

@@observer4467 Yes Ob, really.

[@ChiChi-dy9qi]

@@SOLDOZER I'm sorry you didn't get anything out of it.

[@MichaelSmith-mw8en]

Best advice I can give. Don't go! Why spend hard earned dollars in these areas? Make these places earn it.

[@haggeoromero]

If that’s the best advice you can give, then it says a lot about you and the quality of your intellect.

[@friendsofthegerund7693]

You went from Canada to Granada. They should rhyme. Why DON'T they? WHY?

[@ChrisTovahsAmazingAdventures]

Love your videos.

[@saildale]

If I have to leave a dingy in the water, I tie a long non-floating line tied to my boat away from the dingy with the other end ied to the side or back of the dingy. Hopefuly, the sudden stop when the thieves run out of slack in my long line will give me time to react.

[@SOLDOZER]

So you find 4 guys stealing your dink. Then what? Fight with them? Nothing you can do.

[@tyzardoz]

Cross bow. Wanna get fancy? Load a bolt with a small hand held flare. Make sure your cross bow can be fitted with a fishing reel.. many countries count them as "primitive weapons" and pay no attention. I'm Canadian living in the Philippines.. strictly not allowed weapons. Customs and police didn't even blink at the cross bow I brought in thru the airport in my luggage.

[@Ed-uj4bc]

Interesting post. I’m surprised of the piracy north of Grenada. Do the windward islands have military making passing close to them safer... or does that mean you have to check in even if you’re passing through their territorial waters?

[@SailingBalachandra]

Right now you only check in to an island upon arrival. We don't see ANY millitary from any country at all here so the piracy is going unchecked right now...

[@TheMugenmunster]

No way in the world I would not have my boat armed to the teeth.

[@monkeyjunkyard9947]

I'm with you brother. Unfortunately, the war on guns has created a very difficult situation for sailors. It's the reason I decided to purchase property in the Caribbean instead of buying a full-time sailboat. It's a sad time we're living in.....and getting sadder.

[@BitcoinNewsTodayLive]

I'm not a big gun guy but I ended up getting a Mossberg 500 Mariner for my Tayana 37.

[@hehersfdgf]

Definitely a good idea to get guns, I’d recommend a rifle a semi-automatic hunting rifle like an AR-15 or something a little larger like an AR-10 because I’d rather keep pirates at distance than fight up close with a shotgun.

[@alexmorgan3435]

@@hehersfdgf And what happens when they return fire and put bullet holes straight through your hull and sink you or wound any one down in the cabins or indeed you on deck or in the cockpit? Best form of defence is passive. Don't stop is the best advice unless you absolutely have to or are forced to. An electrified guard rail at night or even switching it on during the day if you care going to be boarded .could be worth having. Quite a few flares is a good idea as well not only to send a distress message but try to deter the pirates themselves. Also as soon as a you realise you are in a potential pirate situation then make a Mayday call asap and keep broadcasting it until you get a response. And if you are boarded don't antagonise them as you have more to lose than them.

[@TommyboyGTP]

@@alexmorgan3435 If you're about to get boarded, hit them with flood lights and blind them. If they're armed and attempting to board, it's go time. Fight to the death. If you can't handle protecting yourself, do yourself a favor and stay on land. No one out at sea is going to save you snowflake.

[@TommyboyGTP]

@@hehersfdgf AR-10 or similar in .308

[@hellkell8693]

@@alexmorgan3435 if they have guns they are probably likely to use them. They might rather go after an easier target than risk their own lives if you fire at them.

[@EVoyageHiking]

You're so right.

[@BoulderMTBR]

It was NOT a "false alarm".

[@robertcarducci3807]

The question exists whether it is better to defend one self or submit. Submitting could shorten one's life. It is a problem that I have considered with the conclusion that submitting is not a good idea. What do you think about a cannon type device that can hurl empty soup cans with a zip loc bag of gasoline inside about a 1000 ft or so? It would be far superior to flares. With the bag exiting the soup can and then gasoline splashing on impact, the pirates would be at risk in operating their engine, using fire arms, or having their electrical system on. The cannon would actually look like a support device for deep-sea fishing rods for immigration purposes. It would be quite safe in that it would use a scuba tank for pressure. I do have a design concept.

[@giannithestud1]

I have a rifle hidden on my boat the protect myself from them animals!

[@connannbarbarin3033]

You what to share what rifle? Why are you hiding it? Better to just declare it.

[@CorvetteCarCraft]

@@connannbarbarin3033 is there such a thing as declared weapon for international sailing?

[@connannbarbarin3033]

@@CorvetteCarCraft yes, you declare your guns to customs.

[@CorvetteCarCraft]

@@connannbarbarin3033 Good to know, I thought it was just illegal. Maybe some countries have exceptions?

[@connannbarbarin3033]

@@CorvetteCarCraft For Mexico you need permit in advance from an embassy, China and East Timor you cant go there with guns, Philippians are not clear, and some countries need advance warning of your arrival with guns. You can get info off Noonsite. Firearms will ether be sealed on vessel if proper locker (gun safe) is available or taken by Customs until you leave the country, depending on the country. Fees may apply. In short carousing with legal guns is not that difficult.

[@gunnarpoe929]

Anyone who voyages with a dog should not be heeded

[@chuckh4077]

How about a parrot. Arrrrrr.

[@rszkodzi]

I have some thoughts and advice. First off on firearms. Yes they are the best defense but legalities and customs make them a pain to have around. I'm not suggesting firearms to anyone that is not proficient or an enthusiast/prepper. You must be tactically prepared if you carry. If you are not tactically trained, then its not a good idea. Folks tactically trained and willing to carry some form of firearm will not be telling you on these comments anyway, they have already decided. So what else can you do? Two scenarios assuming the pursuit boat does not have firearms pointing at you: 1. While running on the water. a. The advice to run dark and fast is key. Never stop and dont fall for a fast boat of fishermen asking for trade or supplies. Thats a tactic they use to get you to pull over. b. If you are being pursued and they refuse to back off assume they are intent on boarding you, dont make it easy. c. Have two coils of 300 foot floating poly line ready to deploy attached to rear cleats. Float them long behind you. If the persuit boat come close to your boat, the start to zig zag in front of them. This will catch the floating lines in their props and foul them rendering the pursuit boat lamed. Be ready to cut the lines if they catch. d. Call for mayday on 16 and have a second radio to respond as if a buddy boat is on the way. Talk it up and make like the buddy boat has firearms ready to intercept. This may scare them if they hear it. e. Flares are useless unless you ignite something. So make several molotov cocktails of regular gas from old wine bottles with corks. Wax the corks in so the fumes stay inside. Tie an oil soaked rag on top. Light it and toss at the boat if in range to smack it. It doesn matter where, the splash will instantly ignite and cause panic. Omit the rag until needed if you fear the cocktail will be a problem with customs boarding. It will look like any old bottle of wine. Use darker bottles. f. The sling shot is a good idea, but use a pro version and steel ball bearings. The steel can penetrate glass and wood and will hurt a lot if on target. g. Have machetes, a few of them. If running on the water you have the advantage of your boat they have the disadvantage of trying to jump on it. h. Bows and arrows. Have a bow setup to look like a fishing bow so customs doesnt gripe about it if they board. Plus hey you can fish with it. i. Tape up a long knife to the end of your anchor chain pole and use it as a spear if they try to board. j. Spear guns, anything from a real spear gun to just a hawaiian sling will work. Buy extra bolts. Only use it when at very close range. k. Aluminum bats. Always a handy tool for things. l. Turn your zig zag pattern towards open ocean. The smaller boats have limited fuel. m. Roadside flares. These stay lite for a long time even under water or wet. Use the sling shot to launch them or use a simple pipe and sling shot rubber attached at the end to make a makeshift launch tube. The roadside flare again must land on boat and ignite something, have more molotov cocktails handy. n. In a pinch you can also use a simple pipe with the diameter of a shotgun shell. Insert the shotshell in one end and use hammer to deploy it. Technically not a firearm and can be easy discharged after use. You have the same legal issues with shells though. 2. While at anchor This one is a problem since anyone can sneak up on you by just swimming. Most boardings will happen after midnight and before dawn. a. Have a motion activated alarm and set it to be loud and turn on all the lights. A dog works wonders here but a pain to travel and check in with. b. Always have a radar set with a perimeter alarm. May not pick up small canoes though. c. Sleep with weapons of some sort at the ready. Always. d. Lock up everything at night. If they get into the cabin you have a problem. e. Deploy the crazy factor. Acting like a complete nutjob with a machete will confuse your uninvited guests. f. Chain lock the dingy to a davit. You'll have more time to react as they make more noise to steal it. g. Have a halon fire extinguisher and deploy it to the face at close quarters. It will such the air from their lungs and freak them out. 3. While on shore a. Have another cruiser watch your boat if you have friends. b. Assume your boat is always being watched to see if you are leaving it. c. Anchor farther away from shore to make it a less desirable target. d. Get that motion activated alarm system. e. Stow any loose items inside and lock up everything. f. Never put your boat name on the dingy. Its a sure way to notify people on shore your not on your boat. g. Alter your pattern of going ashore and always come back before dark. h. Stay at secure marina with guards and make friends with the guards, offering them a tip to watch your boat when you do shore excursions. i. Leave a big dog on board. 4. If you are approached by armed men, just play along. You probably will not have a way to match their firepower before being shot up. Pull the epirb and radio a mayday. You can make it a fast encounter when they board by telling them you have radioed and phoned for police/coast guard and the eprib has notified the military and will be there shortly. Comply but remind them they will be caught. May make a difference in what is stolen and can possibly save your life. Me? If boarded, I'm going down fighting and its going to cost them something. Its in my blood to do so. Everyone else will need to make up their own minds. Safe travels

[@trukeesey8715]

What we have to do is to overthrow all governments that don't favor cannons on private yachts, and replace them with folks who are under my leadership. Get started.

[@joshs199]

I have hidden fun lockers on my cat. I don't worry about pirates, because I know. I can access my funs to deter threats from these scumbag "pirates". Do the same spend the time and money to secure your family and valuables. It's Fun and a great hobby. That you will hopefully never have to use. And Running dark is a great idea. That's why you should have several advanced night vision.optics in your equipment. 👍🏼

[@norml.hugh-mann]

Im guessing the fun box contents are classified for good reason

[@WildcatCougar]

I would have more than a few guns on board. People that can't defend themselves deserve what they get.

[@haljetdvr]

You do’t truly believe that anyone here thinks you have left your mother’s basement - do you?

[@norml.hugh-mann]

I guess fear of pirates is good of an excuse as any to avoid a ticket for not having your nav lights on.

[@stimpsonjcat67]

You said St Lucia a lot in this video. Noted.

[@GlocknLoad1]

Being this is a salt water environment.. would definitely run a chrome plated bolt carrier group in my AR. And fly an American flag.

[@Saywhatohno]

wow this is scary

[@rickuyeda4818]

Why wouldn't you get night vision goggles? There was a case where an older couple was murdered for their yacht . The yacht was repainted but sharp eyed friends spotted it at a marina and the suspects arrested.

[@SOLDOZER]

Fake story. I have been hearing that one for almost 30 years...

[@connannbarbarin3033]

@@SOLDOZER Murder of Thomas and Jackie Hawks?

[@SOLDOZER]

@@connannbarbarin3033 They got murdered in California by gang members who pretended to want to buy their boat and have nothing to do with the Caribbean, and that was 20 years ago, and has nothing to do with pirates.

[@SOLDOZER]

@@connannbarbarin3033 You need some yoga pants for that stretch...

[@baronvonkaiser9912]

im putting cannons on my boat. shitebeard wont be catchin me today yarharrr

[@davidwalker2781]

What happened to the sailboat that was following you, with their lights lit up (that you mentioned early on in the video). Didnt you speak with them on the radio.?

[@SailingBalachandra]

No they followed us through with lights on. If it was pirates they chose not to mess with either boat. Maybe because it was 2 sailboats

[@markwinter8760]

Question? would a crossbow or crossbows be considered a fire arm?

[@SailingBalachandra]

Hmmm depends on the country. Some countries here in the caribbean banned spearguns- similar?

[@darrenadams13]

At 4:50 you mentioned it was a false alarm, but you didn’t say what it was.. so, what were the 2 objects that were closing in on y’all ???

[@SailingBalachandra]

It was pitch black and we couldn't see what it was. We blew through going almost 8 kn with motor and full sail. Later on when we got to know local fishermen we learned more about ais drug drops. Some fishermen also use ais on buoys too so it could have been either. Venezuelan pirates have been up as far as St Lucia in 2020 so who knows

[@joem3556]

just joined... in support of Canadians

[@chuckh4077]

Especially julian, Ricky and bubbles. They are favorite Canadians

[@helenbell1715]

lift it and lock it. that is the rule for dinghies.

[@stephanelutz6243]

Night vision is cheap and handy for these situations. High powered integrated suppressed air guns are also an option for defense and not regulated buy firearm laws plus no muzzle flash.

[@tyroneshulace3203]

If you have fuel on board. You have a deterent and a weapon. Gas & diesel can be spread on the water & ignited. Spearguns, crossbows, hunting slingshots (can put a ball bearing right through plywood) and also pepper ball guns & tazers. There are also scope equipped very very high powered 22 cal. air rifles that emit no muzzle flash. I prefer to fight than the Bubbles approach.

[@connannbarbarin3033]

you can't ignite diesel

[@SOLDOZER]

You dont even know diesel needs compression to ignite. I dont think Id be taking your advice....

[@tyroneshulace3203]

@@connannbarbarin3033 you will note above I stated "GAS and DIESEL" in fact if you mix less flammable engine oil & gas-oline that also burns.

[@tyroneshulace3203]

@@SOLDOZER Diesel is the same thing as Fuel/heating oil. It is burned and burns well when atomized. Pumped under pressure through an orifice. OR If it is warm enough it will vapourize and burn creating heat and more vapourization. Also; you will note above I stated "GAS and DIESEL" in fact if you mix less flammable engine oil & gas-oline that also burns.

[@connannbarbarin3033]

@@tyroneshulace3203 soooo in case of pirate attack you will just quickly mix few liters of gas and diesel to hopefully ignite a few squarer meters of ocean in tiny fire to stop a speedboat wail using ineffective weapons that are treated same as firearms in most places. Great plan!

[@SailingPachamama]

Nothing happened ! and it's Venezuela one the most dangerous coasts in the carrebean sea. Also I have read plenty of sailors have shot innocent fishermen because they were so scared. Likely if they are out that far and robbing they will out gun you anyhow.

[@johngroberts952]

If you are shooting innocent people ya don’t have any business having anything more that a water hose In your hands.

[@hellkell8693]

Plenty?

[@vagabondroller]

Really? Do you have any proof? I’m not saying it’s never happened but I guarantee you that cruisers with guns have deterred many many pirate attacks.

[@ChrisDraussen]

Going DARK is a good idea definitely. Just have good working radar. And keep being DARK..... Very dark

[@tim6385]

Great info on da pirates. I think a flare gun holstered at the helm along with a sharp knife (at the helm) is a good form of defense. Obviously we can't discuss what other means could be onboard. It's a challenge to obey the laws on firearms and also be protected in those unfriendly waters. Tons of flares is a great idea and launching one towards a pirate full of gerry gas cans would be a spectacular way to get away. Here's hoping you NEVA have to do that. Stay safe out there!

[@Kingjeffkoch]

Afaik jerry cans dont explode or burn when you shoot at them, its diesel, maybe there will be a flame when its opened but if it doesnt fall over it should be quite unspectacular even if its propane, those cans are quite sturdy i dont think a flare would do something with it. Also i think a knife might make the robber want to attack you because he sees you as a danger, this could end badly if he is armed with a gun. Luckily it seems that most just want the tender boat.

[@vagabondroller]

Sounds like a good way to get yourself killed. A flare gun isn’t going to do anything but piss your attackers off and bringing a knife to a gun fight is always a bad idea.

[@stephanelutz6243]

Big game suppressed airguns, semi auto or single shot. Refill tank with scuba compressor.

[@vagabondroller]

Now we are talking. I’ve looked into getting one of the Korean ones.

[@SOLDOZER]

This is not the movies. A boat is not going to explode if you shoot a flare gun at it. His suggestions are terrible.

[@baseballunderthelights2373]

where are the best places to find the piracy reports...do you have on line links to them?

[@SailingBalachandra]

Yes- you can find info on noonsite and there are several international piracy reports online

[@SOLDOZER]

Around campfires because thats the only place it happens.

[@bradkamelesky1938]

great episode guys , very good info

[@airborneranger-ret]

Ok, there is no "NATO branch" of the military. So this is a friend of a friend?

[@surlycycler2213]

I always thought the pirates of the Caribbean was a ride at Disney Land.

[@SailingBalachandra]

Love Captain Ron!

[@VeganV5912]

@@SailingBalachandra ... you are vegan ??? You should be vegan ✅❤️🦷😬💪. Poor innocent animals. Bludgeoned to death. Or a burger or fish 🎣. Five minute meal. Animals like gone Forever !!!!! I was a hypocrite. But now I’m vegan. I don’t hurt animals. And I’m bigger and stronger on a plant-based diet !!!!

[@tyzardoz]

@@VeganV5912 🙄

[@VeganV5912]

@@tyzardoz .. 👈😫🦠💩🍖🥓🍳🍕🍣🥩.. “Everyone is doing it, I’m going to do it because everyone eIse is doing it. Because I’m scaared. CuIt following”. 🤦🏼‍♂️ Normal. I’m vegan. I don’t hurt animals. That’s that ✅👍. It’s normal for me. Everyone else foIIow the Ieader 👈😫🦠💩🍖.......

[@VeganV5912]

@@tyzardoz .. You won’t hurt your cute little dog.. 🤗🐶. Or a parrot 🤗🦜. Or a cute little horse 🤗🐴. But you pay for someone eIse to stab, animals because you’re a Coooooo-ward !!! For a 5 minute burger !!!!! Hypoooo-crite ! Big time !!! Why don’t you change ? It’s easy. Don’t hurt animals 🤷🏼‍♂️. You can have vegan burgers and vegan pizza and vegan chicken and vegan BBQ, vegan curry and vegan burritos and vegan tacos and vegan Japanese sushi roll..... ✅. To stand up for yourself ? You’re a Coooo-ward ?? Up to you. CuIt Ieader.. 😫🦠💩🍖🔴🤯 Or vegan ✅👍🌎. 🤷🏼‍♂️.

[@thesailingtourists]

you said you were sailing from St Croix to Grenada and you said you were sailing close to Venezuela and worried about pirates. Venezuela is 80 miles past Grenada. Did you sail off course? If you didn't, then you would not even be close and thus have no worries. Is this just drama for ratings?

[@SailingBalachandra]

We were far west of Genada on the last day. The currents are strong and you end up far west of the rumb line. The Venez. Pirates do not hang out around the coast where venezuelan authorities are looking for them - they sail north into the central carib. Ocean to do their business with drug trafficing and whatever else comes along i guess...

[@trukeesey8715]

Now all, of the pirates, wear masks?

[@texasfossilguy]

How much money do you need to do this? What kind of boat?

[@SailingBalachandra]

Watch our other videos! :)

[@remodeledcatidea5324]

us special forces can easily eliminate all piracy.

[@mark2000715]

You watched too much Netflix.

[@chuckh4077]

Ikr. Chuck Norris vs Pirates.

[@eduardodelagarza4787]

And flares lol

[@rubbercheck72]

Have some sharks with freakin' laser beams on their heads!

[@miked5563]

False alarm? What the hell does that mean? What was it?

[@dustyone1648]

Agree, built up to the that point, then nothing. Not helpful at all.

[@SailingBalachandra]

Yeah we think in was possibly a drug drop and we were lucky and not approached. Fishermen would have had lights and would not have moved towards us auspiciously like that

[@SailingBalachandra]

Yeah we don't want to presume it was a drug drop however fishermen have lights and their net buoys are also lit with led... this could have been the drug drop scenario. Glad we didn't find out as we would probably be held hostage in venezuela and our boat set adrift...

[@easternsuneasternsun171]

Venezuelen waters ? You were a hundred miles away from venezuela. What BS , and those mystery boat , grenadian long liners

[@hapticboychuk2734]

Just realized you're Canucks. Under what circumstances is an axe required aboard? Must be for boats longer than 8m

[@Mike7O7O]

This became a regulation when the majority of boats and yachts were made of wood. During winter months, when trees etc freeze, beavers used to attack wooden boats of all sizes, but particularly smaller rowing boats that were used before ribs were invented. Because they were used all the time, the wood was easier for the beavers to break down, for their lodges. It wasn't unusual for a pack of beavers to devour whole small boats, so it became necessary and then mandatory for boats registered in Canada to carry axes. Beavers can be extremely vicious when cornered, so long handled axes became mandatory. That's the history. Yacht captains can ask for an exemption, if they're made of steel etc or GRP. Beavers hate the taste of GRP apparently.

[@tyroneshulace3203]

@@Mike7O7O I wish beavers would use dead /cut wood. But they don't. They only use fresh green. Nice story though. Porcupines however like OSB chip/fake board. They eat it for thge glue. Crazy but true.

[@chuckh4077]

Hockey sticks ? No one would be surprised if they found those in a boat full of Canadians. Lol

[@slavek033]

You should have gone to Ali express and buy Microwave Gun , it does the job and looks like radar .

[@ChrisDraussen]

Canons will probably help... IT is Not so bad than eastern africa guys

[@trukeesey8715]

What we have to do is to overthrow all governments that don't favor cannons on private yachts, and replace them with folks who are under my leadership. Get started.

[@gerrycooper56]

I don’t get why a pirate would have and turn on AIS.

[@billpye1029]

Wow, interesting and scary video guys. Is there a reason why you guys don't have weapons for protection?

[@SailingBalachandra]

It's a touchy subject. Every time you enter a new country you have to declare them and a lot of countries will confescate them and there is a big process. Flares and good decisions will have to do :)

[@billpye1029]

@@SailingBalachandra that makes sense. I hope you have lots of flares just in case... you've been making pretty good decisions. Stay safe guys, we worry about you.. sending love your way..💗

[@_._._DJ_._._]

@@SailingBalachandra Full auto flare gun... double barreled flare gun... flare cannons.... ;)

[@williambullard2704]

I wouldn't know where to get a gun anyway

[@honkingdonk3981]

@@williambullard2704 gun shops if you are in the US. It's a process to get one bit well worth it.

[@joepetrone7288]

And a jamo dog lol ive enevernbeen robbed in Riviera beach

[@forsail9182]

SV Quest

[@marshalkrieg2664]

So, how many people have actually been killed or disappeared via piracy in the Caribbean ?

[@chuckh4077]

Dead men tell no tales. Old pirate saying.

[@predator1739]

After watching this episode, I was shocked how dangerous it is to sail around the world! Sailors raising a big dog on the sailing boat, such as a kanga or a German shepherd, will it help reduce potential criminal desire?

[@connannbarbarin3033]

maybe low lvl theft not full on pirate attack.

[@SOLDOZER]

These sailing "pirate stories" are mostly clickbait BS. Theres ZERO documented cases of boats chasing anyone down in the Caribbean. All the crime is petty theft, dinks and engines stolen and rare boardings at anchor.

[@gabereiser]

It surprises me how many cruisers go into pirate waters without defense... also, those hard edits mid sentence but with different lighting, shirt, time of day, are really distracting. Cleaning those up would do wonders for your channel.

[@SailingBalachandra]

Thanks, yes we are in St.Maarten close to an airport and the planes take off over and over and it's really hard to get 20 seconds of straight video :) we usually don't have this issue

[@eduardodelagarza4787]

The best thing is an automatic weapon second best is a hilti gun remove the plastic plug and replace with a nasty pellet or other, when you are boarded explain they're used for maintenance purposes

[@johnryan2193]

You were showing on their ais

[@tyroneshulace3203]

Could have been the lit up sailboat behind them that also has AIS on.

[@martinrobson9770]

Sounds like you ran over a fisherman's net 🤔

[@OleErikSkare]

Watergun with flammable liquid + flare gun

[@vagabondroller]

Blaming other cruisers for the majority of thefts and making excuses for the local thieves. I hope you don’t regret not being better armed someday.

[@SailingBalachandra]

It really depends on where you are and local politics but cruisers who steal from other cruisers exists. People get south into a foreign country, the boat breaks, they run out of money and the location is boarderline 3rd world morals get tested and there are some folks who will cross the line. It's a sad reality

[@vagabondroller]

Yes, dirt bag thieves exist in the cruising community but they are statically insignificant campared to the locals. Also...guns are awesome.

[@joepetrone7288]

Why I legally carry

[@cameronjm]

Why wouldn’t you carry any weapons? That just makes you easy prey.

[@michaeldbhawker3556]

Insanity. Never bring a machete to a Gun fight. Would never cruise pirate waters without a stainless 12 gauge and lots of ammo.

[@connannbarbarin3033]

stainless will rust. Use nitrated firearms (or some other treatment). And a rifle.

[@cmdmd]

If you are entering other countries, you’re subject to their laws and you might end up accused of crimes. Stay in USA territorial waters if that’s your intention.

[@connannbarbarin3033]

@@cmdmd yes and no, but cruising with guns is fully possible.

[@michaeldbhawker3556]

@@cmdmd Im subject to whatever the fuck choose. That is my choice

[@cmdmd]

@@michaeldbhawker3556 My Dear Yosemite Sam Type. LOL Lovely, then you dock at a different country and, to use your eloquent Trailer-trash colloquialism, you will face penalties and fines according to that country’s “fucking” laws. LOL

[@williambullard2704]

Are there many cases of murder by pirates or is it a case that you are just robbed.

[@SOLDOZER]

Its click bait fake news for KZbin clicks. Odds of a fellow sailor stealing your stuff is 10X higher.

[@vicjac40]

Fuck that! I’ll be exercising my 2nd Amendment!! Board me at night. Lead language a coming!

[@andreachinaglia5804]

And it is perfectly fine to do it, the only problem is that you have to sail only in USA as elsewhere it is as good as trash and you have to follow the rules of the country you are visiting...

[@johnq.public2621]

@@andreachinaglia5804 "you have to follow the rules of the country you are visiting.." just exactly like the law-abiding criminals that are boarding your yacht going to rape, torture, rob and murder you and your crew.

[@andreachinaglia5804]

@@johnq.public2621 I stand on my opinion, obviously you are free to visit or not a country, no one compels you to do It, but of you decide to do It you have to follow their laws or you will become yourself a criminal. But my point Is not that you should not try to defend yourself, tour crew and boat the best you can, don't get me wrong, Is only that you have to do It following the laws of the place you are in and that outside USA the 2nd amendment does not protect you. I.e. in my country a US Citizen that carry firearms has to declare them to the custom cecking in, the firearms will be kept in custody and you can collect them when you leave the country, if you don't and they find them, and I am not even talking of using them, you will be arrested and persecuted as criminal and the judge will laugh of you try to exercise the 2nd amendment.

[@johnq.public2621]

@@andreachinaglia5804 You feel free to stand on your own opinion, and I wholly support that. However before your vessel is being boarded by pirates and you are going to be raped, tortured, robbed and murdered, don't call ANYONE for help except local law enforcement. It's not fair to endanger others because of your less-than-wise choice(s). Hold your head up high with pride while you die in agony knowing you're a good little sheeple obeying the law. Fear not for me getting caught by law enforcement with firearms, I use energy weapons, and they look like common everyday things found on a sailing yacht.

[@johnq.public2621]

@@andreachinaglia5804 Where is your genius reply? All Mankind is awaiting

[@edmilinski1295]

pirates would never transmit their AIS data. or am I misunderstand ? can your AIS transmit ? anyway, the title works -)

[@gregfletcher3557]

Do they make a semi auto flair gun with a 30 round clip? Lol

[@RulgertGhostalker]

and an english speaking person will get a different take on it than a spanish speaking person....but if you are multi-lingual, you might be able to figure it out.

[@jjohnson8977]

Ak 47

[@Fadil1954]

In a situation like this AK47 would be a great deterrent..... One shot in the air and the bad guys would hit the deck ....

[@connannbarbarin3033]

6.5 creedmore Desert Tech MDRX best yacht rifle. IWI Tavor TS12 best yacht shotgun. Glock 25 best pistol. You should avoid military calibers.

[@greenlightning6971]

You can't have guns on a boat. Period.

[@connannbarbarin3033]

@@greenlightning6971 what gave you that idea?

[@greenlightning6971]

@@connannbarbarin3033 international maritime law. If you boarded by coast guard of any country your guns will be confiscated. And you'll be fined, regardless of gun owning permits. It's a different story if you live in and sailing in territorial waters of your home country.