I have the same problem. I have to do Island of the Pirates and I am just level 27. I totally agree with Urd123 this is not the way to treat new players.
I cannot see the adventure in the merchant or one for sale in TO. I have 1 tavern explorer and can only do short searches . The other option I gather is Traitors,

So i have to increase all the production for weapons including steel , and my population. Most would give up at this stage I am sure. The only saviour at the moment is that you can trade with presents. So hey did i really need a recycler - guess not.

Maybe a friend could give me a lootspot but what i would really like is an adventure that would fulfil the 'resource' adventure quest in a way that would suit my level.