How do I deal with a navigator+pirate+assassin+helmsman combo ? This one guy seems to be bent on killing my queen

Martyrs. When in doubt, martyrs.

The best counter to a Pirate + Navigator + Assassin combo is to hire a Revered Elder and let her stay with your Queen. Since Revered Elder has a Combat Priority lower than the Assassin, Assassins can't kill your Queen.

I have neither ( revered elder or martyr ) in my next hire.. Thanks though.. I'll figure something out. This is somewhat exciting

Do you have your own pirate?

If you could smuggle a pirate down to Gandhi to pick up those drillers, then when the pir nav assassin comes out you just wait until they come real close and then pirate their asses. They'll need to turn the ship around AND arrange with allies or else you'll catch them. If you do catch them, smuggle a hypno down there.

good luck!

Pray