That might be a good idea.  Our group seems to need the impetus of combat to fuel the socialization.  It would at least get them talking, and give them a<em>reason</em>to interact.  And, once the ship is taken care of,<em>then</em>we can return to the wilderness exploration/elemental and resource gathering path, which will, hopefully, go more smoothly because everyone will know one another a bit better and be more likely to spend time together.