I'm pretty new at this too, but I had the same train of thought as you. I'm sure some of the better modelers could easily enclose the bridge. Also this is only if its not a Chris Craft, it might be. Now we need pictures of what your boat looks like after you sanded off the cracking paint (especially since I like blue ). I have one question for you though, if you joined back in 2003 how are you still new to this? By now you should be a pro.