They may not take up a lot of pages, but they have their share of the conversation. ;-)

It's no surprise you should feel distanced from The Elliot men. And Charles Musgroves is a rather frustrated husband I fear.

But how about the sailors? I have a soft spot for Captain Harville myself. He seems goodnatured and unaffected despite his misfortune. His upright character will be further illuminated later.
Admiral Croft is a darling man and there are others that seem worthy of further acquaintance. The one who kisses his hand to Anne! Is that the same as blowing her a kiss, BTW?
Captain Benwick might be a bit too piano...but surely you must see some human qualities, weak and strong, in our Frederick?
P is not 'his book' but he is still of vital importance to it, no? ;-6 His presence and absence is certainly crucial.