Sequence 8–2: Vainglorious Bastards

Optional Missions:

- Damage the Royal African Pearl with an upgraded ram

- Use the fort's defenses to sink a ship

I highly advise liberating the Cabo de Cruz fort before starting the mission since it will make this mission a lot more bearable. Also, make sure your have the battering ram upgrade purchased and equipped. Restock your ammo and repair your ship then set out to the mission area.

For the mission, follow the allied pirate ship The Ranger to the southeast of the search area. You'll find the Pearl docked in the nearby islands. Attack it and it will release its sail and escape. Continue chasing the Pearl and shoot the fire barrels it leaves behind. Eventually, you'll rescue Vane and his men while in the middle of a fight against more enemy ships.

The captured fort will prove its use since it will fire upon the hostile ships. At this point, the optional objectives will be given as well. First, approach the Pearl at full speed and ram it head on. The best way to do this is when the Pearl is turning or slowing down. Next, lure the other ships within the fort's firing range. You can also attack them and damage them so that the fort cannons can finish them off. Once you're done with the optional objectives, board the ship and watch the following cutscenes.