Fireships and 'cutting out expeditions'.

[Cmmdre]

I recall many years ago running small ship boarding actions using gridded deck plans, 15mm figures and a modified version of the Traveller RPG combat system from Azhanti High Lightning. It seemed to work very well

That sounds good too. 15mm would work if that's what you've got or are used to gaming with. Sure would be a space saver. Or as Daniel posted using models from Broadsides and Boarding Parties for the basic ship would also work well. That's a game I wish I had a copy of. I've bid on a few on ebay over the years but most are to rich for my blood and I drop out of the bidding. One of these days I'll secure a copy.