So I tried making a mage, picked the 6 schools of magic for my top 6 skills. Picked the 3x int for magicka bonus on the char sheet. I have 210 magicka and I can't seem to cast more than one shock spell without resting.. Am I missing something?

I should also say that I picked the negative bonuses that don't let me use a sword, and I started with one, so on the first two mobs (rat then bat) I've been able to cast the Shock spell I started with once, then have been forced to punch them to death..

I've never played as a full mage, but I'm pretty sure that anything other than a warrior type should just basically run through Privateer's Hold and try to avoid as much combat as possible. Heck, even with a warrior, a couple unlucky rounds of combat can finish you off pretty quickly.

If you can get to the exit, you might try going back in, fighting the 2 or 3 baddies in the first room but stay near the door... if it looks like it's getting bad, just exit and re-enter. Also could try finding some of the crypt/cemetery dungeons since they usually only have a couple bad guys to fight.

Also since you're just starting off, don't be afraid to go back and re-create your character. Could toss hand-to-hand in there as a skill if you're averse to weapons.