Yes, many players here do try to use their orders to send signals. Unfortunately, the website does limit the range of orders that you can enter, greatly reducing the expressiveness that you can get away with in nonsensical orders. However, even with this reduced set, you can get some stuff across with support holds/moves to neighbors. Also, don't overlook convoys and "move via convoy" orders, those can sometimes allow for much more options since the system allows orders for any hypothetically possible convoy.
In general public games, you'll find a wide range of skill and awareness when it comes to gunboat (or otherwise). Some players overlook reading the orders in detail, or even just recklessly go it alone, but there are also more serious gunboat players that put in considerable effort to send signals, work with others, and anticipate their allies.
There have been some nice gunboat tournaments on this site in the past. Also, you can try recruiting for or joining a private gunboat game advertised on the forum. That might help with finding players that match your level of experience.
Premier League Bet Size
?? Or more if you'll want?
)
)
)