New Valheim patch today when I logged in to Steam...fixes a few issues....
Yes, this gave me hope and an excuse to don my troll skin suit and give it another go. I now back up my files too so nothing will be too far gone if things just go poof again.
Gosh, I hope there is some sea-going stuff in. I've restarted like 5 times - one of which saw me unlock float. I hear there is more boats later on.
I guess there isn't that much in the ocean biome now but it's "interesting" enough. Stay close to the edge of the shore (not the ocean label on your map) at night. That's my only advice
Regarding the merchant; he is a curious fellow. There are only one of these dwarves in every seed, somewhere in the Black Forest biome, but it could be ANYWHERE. For some he's in the forest next to the spawn, some he's literally on the edge of the world. I guess pray to RNOdin or use a known seed. I found mine not too far away in seed "VALHALLA:"
In the burial chambers I've not seen any respawns of the skellies/ghosts but thankfully the glowing mushrooms respawn, 240mins I think. I sure do have a taste for those Yellow Mushrooms!!!!
And yes, many map markers. I'd do the same in Elite if I could! All mushrooms, berries, houses, chambers, caves, and any rich hunting grounds are noted. It has served me well and I highly recommend doing the same.