If you're looking for "seaworthyness", look for at least lots of freeboard
and something covering the bow so if it gets "buried" it doesn't scoop
water into the boat. Or, get one that's self-draining, like a Boston
Whaler.

Yes, high freeboard is something that I should be looking for.

I am just not quite convinced of the idea of covering the bow. I am
really not going out in a high sea -- ever. And covering the bow will
prevent me from fishing from the bow. When I am talking about going out
to sal****er, I am referring to very calm water in protected area.

Jay Chan