Since originally posting this thread with a link to an article that I wasn't sure about, the news seems to be official. In a publicly disclosed earnings meeting, an announcement was also made that Skull and Bones will be delayed until fiscal year 2022.
At least development on the game is still alive, or at least Ubi claims it is.
https://www.ign.com/articles/skull-and-bones-delayed-yet-again-into-2022
Probably the site you are refering is the oficial site of S&B https://skullandbones.ubisoft.com/game/en-gb/home/
One possible notion is whether or not or no longer it'll ever be possible to paintings for imperial factions as a privateer link, even if you don't be part of them outright, but no information has been provided on the subject of privateering.