Have you tried using blank campaign files? With no random or scripted traffic, everything loads much faster. That's what I've been using to test skins, and I just start a test career in my boat of choice. I can load a patrol, take a good look at the boat, and be out again in what seems like no time at all. And that's with a couple dozen other mods loaded.
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/down...o=file&id=1082