: . . The question I have is will it be practical to re-skin the beast.

Absolutely!

Get a length of good quality canvas and go at it. you'll find many references to materials by searching this board, or get a copy of George Putz's book on canvas boats and ignore all but the sections on how to cover and paint one.

A boat that short could serve as a double for day cruising on lakes and rivers. Or, with a long cockpit, you could settle down toward the center and use it as a single.

Pictures will help, of course.

PGJ