I don't think it feels like it's in early access at all anymore. There is loads of content in the game now. Loads of tall tale stuff, a bunch of different factions to do voyages for as well as the random voyages that can be found on your travels. There's a load more enemy types too. I certainly feel like there is more content in this than in plenty of other open world games.
The bumping into other aggressive ships was definitely an issue before but since they added the arena mode I've only been sunk by another ship twice, and I'd only just set sail so weren't really fussed. I don't even fight back I cling to the ladder on their ship and tag along. When they next get off I board the ship, and set it on fire, nick and hide their stuff, raise the anchor and send the ship on its way without them. It's a fun bit of revenge. Also in the Pirates of the Caribbean stuff the voyages in that are kind of isolated locations where you other crews can't get to you.