I won't know for sure until we leave.
I initially signed up with a Python but have now switched to a Type-7. We've talked about some of this in other threads too, but the gist of my decision is basically this:
The AspX is a great explorer, but nearly everyone uses them, and while it's good at everything, it doesn't
excel in any one area, and can't fit repair limpets in addition to the standard exploration kit.
The DBX has a terrible scoop rate, and is short a slot relative to the AspX.
The Anaconda has terrible supercruise handling, but what really kills it for me is the cockpit views. I've taken it across the galaxy twice, and that was enough.
Of all of the remaining ships, in 2.4 I felt like the Python had the best blend of features, handling, and jump range (outside of the main 3 exploration ships), and the cockpit is fairly pleasant. I play in VR, so I like having dark non-reflective surfaces (the Gutamaya cockpits are a little distracting, IMHO). And as nice as the Saud Kruger ships are, they're just not really to my taste either. So the Python was a good choice.
And then 3.0 hit, and turned the Type-7 into another Python. It has almost exactly the same features, from an explorer's point of view. Same layout of optional internals, except one of the slots is a size larger. Same size FSD and fuel tank. And the hull mass was reduced to match the Python. So I could have the Python's internals, but a Lakon cockpit view. The choice was simple.
This may change of course.
EDIT: Here are the builds I use for my exploration vessels:
EDIT 2: I'm gradually updating my list of
ship templates on ED-Astrometrics, which can be a great starting point for choosing ships.
EDIT 3: Some honorable mentions:
- Orca - Can jump almost as far as an AspX, but has one fewer unrestricted optional slots.
- iClipper - Doesn't jump as far as the Python and has one fewer slot, but has 2 slots more than the AspX and is one of the fastest scooping ships.
- iCutter - Great internals, and quite stylish. Jump range is mildly OK.
- Type-6 - Decent jump range, similar internals to the AspX with good cockpit views. Main advantage over Asp is just the fact that it's smaller.
- Types 9 & 10 - Great cockpit views, good looking ships, lots of internals. Steer like oil tankers, and jump range isn't great.