1. Move ships when there are few people online (or when there are certain people not online).
2. Use invis pots or crouch.
3. Scout out the route before hand, that way “surprise” blocked canals will be a thing of the past.
4. Ask if people will sail with you, and an escort is good. I’d recommend a donator due to them being able to us /near.
5. I’d recommend you find a way which allows you to quickly claim it if the moment arises.

It’s all part of the game, its just part of your story (I’ve made you a wiki page for god sake) and learning. Hope to see you again. @britainnicraiser