Reporting back. I got it fixed. So for those who have this bug. Look for a mod that allows jump attacks or underwater fighting. The key here is that the cutscene disables player movement while on the boat and such mods may not like that.. Zartar's Character Behaviors enhanded is the usual culprit, but for me it was a similar one called DMT's underwater and jump attacks. I disabled it and it works fine now. If you still want to use this mod it is advised to: 1. disable the mod 2. fire up skyrim and travel to Raven Rock 3. travel back to windhelm 4. Enable the mod again As for me, I'm going to keep it off. The jump attacks were only nice to have. Besides I'm hearing reports it also may cause issues with dragon riding.