All ships that do not carry rear-facing cannons are rewarded with the so-called "Broadsider Buff". This gives your ship more resistance as a percentage. The buff is displayed in the UI. (See red circle on the right)
The more resistance your ship has, the more the buff gives you.
The buff also has another very important function. A ship that has the buff can use the "Hook Protection" skill.
When used, this buff protects you from the dangerous "hook" attacks of the navy and pirates, during which your ship is held fast.


If you press this skill, two things happen at the same time: firstly, all existing hooks are removed, and secondly, the ship is immune to further hooks for 20 seconds.
Attention: ONLY works when the Broadsider Buff is active! It does not work on ships with a "stern loader" superstructure or similar rear-facing cannons.
The rear gunports of the Junk and the Red lion. Cannons are allowed here. For the Frigate this exception does not apply!
And what about ballistae? The restriction only applies to cannons, ballistas are not affected. .
