Welcome aboard!
We're always glad to have someone new to guide with our vast depth of knowledge and skill. If we can't do that, then we just make up stuff.
I'll back up what cdrsubron7 wrote. The U-boat expansion also fixes a lot of bugs that are still present in version 1.4.
Once you get your feet wet, or artificial IJN sailors feet wet, start experimenting with the mods. They make a great game even better.
Word of warning, ignore Wolverz, he always wants new people to grab his oar. Instead of that, go polish the engines.