Passenger transport. You need a starter transport, so probably the Phoenix or better, the 600i(t). For exploration, you can keep the Odyssey, or drop down to a carrack or..600i(e). You can even go down to the Aquila.
some but not tons of combat…combat as what? Fighter, bomber, interceptor? If you want a fighter that is tanky, the Vanguard is you ship. If you want quick and maneuverable, then the Arrow or Cutlass. Ideally, get a ship that can carry your smaller ships from place to place (this could replace your Phoenix/600i(t)
medical can be played from any ship with a med bay, so pick that up as you want.
some but not tons of combat…combat as what? Fighter, bomber, interceptor? If you want a fighter that is tanky, the Vanguard is you ship. If you want quick and maneuverable, then the Arrow or Cutlass. Ideally, get a ship that can carry your smaller ships from place to place (this could replace your Phoenix/600i(t)
medical can be played from any ship with a med bay, so pick that up as you want.