I'd choose pirate.. If I lived in the 1700's or early 1800's, I probably would have been a pirate. I say this because I'm a rebel. I also would accept early death.
I think allowing player crew should be optional.
And if it's your ship, your the captain. But I think you should be able to invite your friends on your ship. I also think that in ship battles you should be able to grapple on to the enemy ship and …