RE: figures for your boat
escipion:
For 1/16 scale, Verlinden makes a few navy captains, and Jimmy Flintstone makes a whack of 1/18 and 1/25 beach babes, along with a 'Col Hogan' (Hogan's Heroes) that could be converted into a captain with a bit of work.
Robbe in Germany makes 1/20 figures, and they can often be found in online US stores and even eBay.
As for other figures, instead of building UP... why not get the appropriate action figure at a garage sale or dollar store, and trim off any unwanted accessories (ammo vests, etc) Its a MUCH easier way that building up, and you start with a semi-posable figure from the get-go.
When I need inspiration, I just go into the local Toys-R-Us or Walmart and wander the aisles... you never know what they'll have on sale. Even the dollar stores often get some decent figs in... or the big supermarkets that sell everything, including toys and clothing)
Let your mind drift... you want a ready to pose fig, you'll pay through the nose - but if you're willing to do a bit of work, you can often get it done rather inexpensively!
WhiteWolf