One of the most famous swords was ... As a short broadsword, generally around 28 inches in length, the Cutlass was ideal for use on ships, ... The Cutlass (Pirate Weapons) Posted: November 8 ...

"Two defining characteristics of pirate ships are heavy weapons and cosmopolitan cultural contents—assembled from the many prizes taken," Kingsley said.

Pirates may not be as prevalent as they once were, but they can still be a nuisance on a cruise ship. This is how ships use modern tech to combat pirates.

Wreck hunters working in the Mediterranean Sea uncovered a 17th-century Algerian vessel which experts say was a pirate ship operated by slave traders.