New player question about soloing and crewing

[Liddabit]

Greetings all

I'm Miss Gnomer in game, a level 8 pirate, I just started yesterday. I've had a great deal of fun but now I'm getting a bit frustrated. I've been trying to earn some coin but lately I'm getting sunk everytime I go out right about when I have a full hold in my galleon and I'm limping back to an island or when I try to take something my own level with my sloop. The repair costs are starting to stack up and I'm near not being able to afford sinking again.

Should I be crewing up instead? Given my schedual I mostly get to play late at night so I havn't had much luck finding a crew to join yet. It seemed possible to solo when I started yesterday but today I seem to be stuck.

I appreciate any pointers and tips someone could give about this Thank you!

Lidda Bit / Miss Gnomer , Pint sized pirate