I just started this game and got the place after the kraken fight. I can't seem to get the controls to do anything. I can press A on xbox controller to go into the menus but can't navigate them with the bumper or trigger keys.

Sounds the same to me but what that I get more with the option with gold: "FIGHT STRONGHOLD to gain X item" and the same option with "LOSE 200 GOLD" Thanks to clarify

During a raid, I boarded some random Company ship, and found a pirate named Circe on board, along with something called a Harpooner, I think? Basically a Matey, but with a ranged attack. They both fought alongside me, but not under my control, and after we finished cleaning up the enemies... nothing. No story-event, no explanation. I was halfway expecting her to join my crew or something, as an alternate way to acquire more Specialists instead of hiring them at the Tavern. But no - the game just proceeded ...

https://store.steampowered.com/app/3223820/Rogue_Waters_Dead_in_the_Water/

FYI