Exactly, like shelves. And you are correct, they won't work well in the forward section, but then the aft ones should do the trick. If you can build the boat, and you can imagine the shelves, you are well on your way.
In light winds sitting in the bilge works fine. But as the Spindrift is a tender boat, being able to get one's @$$ out of the bilge to a desirable location for gusts is required some times.
I'm in upstate ny near Rochester. My 11N is available to see. Also there is a lot of video in my signature. Great boat , especially for your situation.