Playing Naval Action now is very different that before the wipe. It took me a week to finally get my zone on how its played. Since you will be starting all over again, it should be easier. You will spend more time hauling cargo for a while in the shallow waters (protected area) of the Bahamas. Everything you need to advance in the game begins in Nassau. The paid version no longer exists. In order to play in the Peace server you need to buy the Galleon which I suggest you do. The Galleon is a shallow water armed trader. It allows you to haul the larger cargo hauls that pay out larger monies. I suggest you get the ship and work the peace server as it will allow you the ability to learn the game. The number of Port captures in the Caribbean server restricts your ability of getting all the supplies you will need to advance in the game.

That's my summary.