I am going to disagree with most. You did say keeping for a long time and using lots? Once back from your trip I would be looking for a boat yard or some other shop that does fiberglass work and have them do the job properly. It's not a big deal..they will match colour and sand to blend and you will be much much happier.
and yes, I speak from experience. I didn't put the hole in the front cap but I wasn't going to tolerate the 'fix' either.
A further comment...every time someone see's that plate, they are going to say something. Maybe that's what you want. But..if not? Get it fixed right and only you two will look at the spot every time. No one else will know.
Gary Haupt
