Thanks all.

Currently I'm making workstations in virtually every (not too decrepit ) abandoned cabin or ruin I find, and am 'daisy-chaining; a row of portals as I spread. I've been told that I'll get a real boost when I find the trader, but hasn't happened yet either. I have located The Elder location but can't seem to figure how to sail to get there yet and it's close but past reasonable swim range.