If the panel were sent to the Golden Age of Piracy, where would they obtain a ship and crew?
Short answerThe first step proposed is a British letter of marque; Alex Clarke then chooses Penzance because of his family connections.
NotesA British letter of marque would provide government authority for the proposed privateering career. Alex Clarke identifies Penzance as his preferred base because family connections could provide backing. This is a personal counterfactual choice. No detailed crewing or vessel-acquisition plan is given.