It's fairly easy to steer boats after you get the hang of them. Just make sure that you keep adjusting the yellow steering bar accordingly to level out or to turn and then level out.

I've never piloted a sail boat before but I assume the sailing system seems fairly accurate for what the boat responds to according to wind direction and whatnot

Modern boats, yes they essentially steer either at the front or they can maneuver towards their midsection. But a sailboat, not sure, I figure they can be steered at the bow or the stern. So there's somewhat of a learning curve, and it's like the controls are inverted. It still is easy after some practice. In no time you'll be sailing the longboat full speed and dodging rocks easy peasy

I turned vegetation to low because several videos on youtube with valheimers showed theirs on low, and you could see mushrooms and stones more easily, as well as fallen wood, which I almost always pick up to save time, especially in the beginning. A lot of people don't understand why I like to pick up rocks and branches, just watch speedrunning videos. Then the beginning of the game is much more tolerable instead of a lot of grinding

Draw distance can be improved upon, but usually I can see what I need to, unless there's too much fog, in which case I'll focus on what's closer to me in case of mobs