Cornelisz was one of a few men who stayed on "Batavia" to pillage and steal. He was one of the few who survived the final break-up of the ship and made it to the island after floating for two days. Cornelisz was elected to be in charge of the survivors due to his high rank. He made plans to hijack any rescue ship that might return and use the vessel to seek another safe haven. Cornelisz made far-fetched plans to start a new kingdom, using the gold and silver from the wreck. However, to carry out this plan, he first needed to eliminate possible opponents.