[PvK]

I'm not convinced water is weaker than other paths at all. Sword of Swiftness and Boots of Quickness, Bottle of Living Water, and Clam of Pearls are some great items, for example. Sea Trolls and Ice Devils are quite good. Resist Fire and Cold (etc), Quickness, various other good spells. Water's defensive bless bonus is one of my Favorites for improving blessed combat unit survival.

I do like the coastal transport spell idea.

PvK