You know to participate in a shallow port pattle at the moment DLC ships are needed, thats just way it is and have bought a herc if i want to.
Nassau patrol you need a group of DLC content ships or basic cutters to make it worth going.
We all know both the DLC ships are waaay more powerful than any other shallow water ship.
I tend to run from them if in a disabled crafted ship, and thats way it is atm, herc masts seem weak, req though are a pain but been told if you take it's front mast they suffer. Req masts are real low also so don't use top of sail as where to fire at them.
We need a DLC 4th rate next and finally a 1st rate, perhaps a DLC rocket ship as upgrade to mortar brig.
If gets $ in to fund game then is all good, although i would suggest more balance with ships that are crafted vs DLC.