I love the advice from you both.  This is exactly why I am torn between the 2 paths.  
I do have all the smaller ships that can take 1-2 others on board, but I can solo easily.  The Carrack does have a lot of capability that incorporates medical,  exploration drones, cargo, and modules, etc. but it is impossible to solo easily.  Until I can automate the turrets, I cannot even defend myself.  
I would find it strange using a Carrack to bounty hunt solo (as I can in the Cutty Blue) and I can do medical/rescue play, but I don't think I'll have the medical drones (like the Apollo).  The Corsair is meant for more than just a pilot, but I could solo it since it has many pilot-controlled weapons.    
Long story short, I see the points you both make and don't know if any choice is perfect.  
Thanks again for the advice... much appreciated!
I may just keep the fleet as-is for now and see how the gameplay shapes up over the next 
few decades.  lol