So this may sound dumb to some, but still wanting to put this out there. Add a tutorial mode into the game for those that are just now playing the game. At least show them some of the things with how to used the different mechanisms on the boat, how to read maps, etc. But most will have some one helping them if they are in a crew, but if they are just going out solo then at least show them the basics.
Thoughts.
And another thing I want to bring out is that are new players more prone to get attack the most, just hypothetically speaking? Like is one reason why a lot of people who just started playing, stop because of being bombarded by other people who are more experienced, Krakens, skeleton ships, and the meg?