Many types of sailing ships were used by pirates over the centuries, and the vessels were as diverse as the pirates themselves. Upgrading to bigger and faster ships was a badge of honor in the pirate realm, and an ambition that most pirates took very seriously. Sailing under the Jolly Roger, pirate ships were generally fast, well-armed, and sturdy, and were capable of carrying large heavily armed crews. From faster boats to more firepower, successful pirates knew what they needed to carry out their attacks, and they weren't afraid to secure and use it.