Donno about the 'gulls' taking some of the loot - but I did notice that when I use my War Gal I get more Chests and Crates and when I use my War Frig I get more RC's...
It's almost like the game knows I'm trying to stuff more in - so it gives less
Possible it has to do with the firepower of the ship (more Broadsides on a Gal I think - causing more damage per shot = less treasure)...
Where's Angel at?
Shes good at getting those 1200 Drops - maybe her science has an answer...