Iv toiled over batteries myself for a good bit here's what iv settled on after a good deal of research. If you're running an older boat( pre- lithium craze) your boat is engineered to have the weight at the location the manufacturer installed the batteries. From what I have been TOLD( I'm not an expert or a boat builder) you could potentially effect the ride and or performance, hole shot, top end handling ect. By going totally lithium. From what I understand if you're adding additional batteries lithium is the way to go so you don't "off balance " what the manufacturer intended. As far as a starting battery is concerned a quality AGM is more than efficient. As you said it's being charged by the alternator when the engine is running. Also Most alternators will not charge lithiums properly because it's constantly charging. Most alternators are designed to work with lead acid or AGM. GOOD LUCK AND GOOD FISHING!!