Yeah rippa got it right, I dont think tinkering is very essential. Mines capped at 50 and I can make all the things I need. Also to dedo theres some new boat parts you should update to your list, I think falin has made a few already.
On alchemy, yeah its not very easy to gain and uses up alottt of resources
You're off on the right foot, I would just suggest making a good mining macro