Calling the usage of the Pirate Lords and their fleets for later (this means no powerplaying them), including Jack Sparrow and Barbossa who may be referenced and seen later if all goes well. Shipwreck Cove and Isla De Muerta are untouchable locations until introduced, especially the latter which can only be found if already visited. This means no 'happening' upon it, let's stick to the lore of the location as well as we possibly can.

The events of the PotC films did take place. It's been one year after At World's End, but On Stranger Tides is not canon to this world.