Hello to everybody,
I'm not sure if it's the right place to post this idea.
Regarding trading improvements.
Have you ever played the simple boardgame "Merchants and Marauders"? I think there's a nice interesting feature.
I think that in a sandbox like this, the successful trader should be rewarded with experience aswell, cause he takes his time to undertake a long voyage.
Moreover the trading would fluorish and it would not be seen as an annoying trip.
More fish in the sea and more happy shark I would say.
As last thought I could say that the loaded ship shouldn't have the fast travel option, (above 40 of cargo%) in order to stimulate the merchant convoy, routes and cooperation by player.
Doria