For $12 million, albeit in 70s dollars, figure $24 million now, you could buy one of these for your pirate hunting fun:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USS_Tacoma_%28PGM-92%29
http://www.gunboatriders.com/theboats/general_spec.htmlEven by today's standards the performance of the gunboat is impressive. Updated with a modern turbine and diesel, lighter, smaller, and more fuel efficient for the same output, they would be even better. Add modern computer controlled dynamic ballasting and roll-control fins so it is more stable and you overcome many of its design weaknesses. The fact that all its electronics were designed in the late 60s and 70s means you save space, weight, energy, and gain reliability when replaced by modern units.
At $24 million a pop $300 million will buy you twelve. He could have his own fleet.