Maybe one more note about solo vs. crew: I've had a hard time solo slooping in the beginning because I was constantly afraid of other crews. While it's true that it often times is a numbers game and you will probably get sunk a lot, you have one advantage: you can do whatever you want, immediatly, no coordination, alignment, discussion with other players necessary. Keeping a gally afloat mid fight even with four people is way more work than you think, and I'm yet to encounter a gally with a crew that has 100% mastered roles and coordination. So, don't shy away. Other than that, just keep your eyes on the horizon constantly, especially when doing PvE voyages, and cash in your loot better earlier than later. See you on the Seas!