The swamp is def tougher.

I would advise you to not land your ship directly at the swamps. Park at an adjacent Black Forest and go in on land. it's much easier to make your way when you can start on dry land, and have somewhere to fall back to.

Swamps at night is the only time the flying reaper dudes hang around, so try not to be there at night.

Also, you will always be wet in swamps. Always. Night time makes it worse because then you're wet and cold. That combined with waist deep water means you'll get chased down and ganked easily.

My suggestion would be to use your hoe tool to raise land as you progress, so you at least have a higher position to fight from (and no leeches to dodge).

Good luck!