The layouts of various cities are similar for every nation, but the architectural styles and the overall atmospheres are quite different. For example, Spain is the strongest nation in the region, and it has the largest army and navy. Accordingly, you'll tend to see a lot of patrols in any Spanish settlement, and the sounds and the music associated with these colonies are quite warlike.

The hero cannot enter the cities of the enemy nations in the usual manner, but there are some roundabout ways into them. First, the player can go ashore a reasonable distance away, then approach it by land by going through the jungle and hiding from patrols. Second, it may be possible to find a diplomat who can improve relations with a country, or even give you a trader's license or a letter of marque, although those are the most expensive options. Third, an experienced captain can get into an unfriendly port under false colors.​