I pretty much gave up my Niagara because I could. I had 5 durability so I used some of that in stupid ways.
Then I had a Merc. Again, 4 of the dura went away stupidly. Last one did not go away, as I gave up on the merc with the outpost I removed.
Finally, I sail Cerberus. And yet again, I don't mind going into stupid fights and risking loss. i have 5 durability... before I eat all of it away my mastercrafted Cerberus will be ready.
I would say loosing a fight is not that big of a deal. Especially since when fighting much stronger people, that lost durability will pay for itself.