To unlock this achievement, simply buy any new ship from a port.
This includes the Corvette for $3,000 or the Caravelle for $6,000 in Black Shore, or any other ship that is better than your starter $1,500 Schooner.
Questing along the way is a pretty easy way to get some early money going. Quest givers have a standard "!" above their heads in towns and are easy to spot.
Happy Hunting!