Ok Max, but understand that in the process of folks "selling the War Frigate" they put down my favorite the War Galleon all the time. Turn about is fair play. "Looks" is going to be an entirely subjective opinion (sorry think the frigates look ugly!!!).
I guess I dont need "faster" or more "maneuverable". Ive always mastered sailing before I master any other skill on my first 4 pirates, always with Galleon class. Ive seen tests of ship times that will give the "light sloop" the only real significant difference in ship speed. I have no problems with speed in my War Galleon. There is seldom any NPC ship (of any class) that can outrun me. Only twice have I had some aggravated insane Reaper move too fast, and it was always in circles and never affected me anyhow.. hehe.
I think it comes down to the Captains preference.
When I go sinking ships, I dont run back and forth everytime im full, I achieve my goal first, be it a quest, or leveling cannons, etc. Since that timer was removed, I no longer get sunk from that, used to all the time. Never had a problem with manuevering, speed, or empty pockets. Had to move gold around just to participate in the double gold event, because most my big pirates pockets are full.
I stay out until im done sinking ships, the more my ship held before getting full the better.
I abore SvS because you have to be a glitch master, or anti-glitch master for any kind of a "fair" fight. Players willingness to use such crutchs paints a pitiful picture in that category.
And I give up on defending the best ship/class the War Galleon
More firepower/hull and pseudo useless front cannons always win out because its cool.
Hey I do have a War Frigate on each of my pirates, I wouldnt short myself one, just never drive the berg.