Few newbie questions.

[Shodo]

Buff timers - no, you have to guess or use a log-reader program.
Item link - either hold down right click on the item or alt-right click the item to bring up the info window, then click on the info window to link it in chat.
Swimming - mouse look will only work in first person. In third person you have to use page-up and page-down to control your pitch.