The graphics are excellent and very detailed. The detail of the ships is the best I have ever seen. For example, if the ships sails are damaged during combat, you will actually see different parts of the mast collapse. When you change from full sail to battle sail, the bottom sails will be in their furled state. The battle interface is very good.
All commands are easily accessible.
Even controlling a squadron of ships is not difficult. TalonSoft gives a number of convenient ways to give orders to more then one ship. It does a good job of explaining how to play the scenarios and explains how to start a campaign. It also gives enough information on creating scenarios. But the first time you play the campaign game, it is a little confusing.