thechadmiller":cv51kfqx said:
We won't be able to afford a motor at this time and will be paddling and hoping for good conditions
Just re-read your original post, and in the case of no motor, I'd probably go with the Kaboat given those two options. The Kaboat actually rows very well when using the oars (not so much if paddled like a kayak). Then if/when you decide to get a motor, it only takes a 2.5 hp, so that's relatively inexpensive, light weight, and it pushes the Kaboat pretty well. There are some photos in my "
My Old Boats" album showing the Kaboat on the roof of the 22, and under power.
Personally, of all the various dinghy options in the fleet, my inflatable kayak gets the most use. It's lighter and smaller and sets up quicker and easier than any Kaboat or dinghy, and paddles really well. But with 2 or more people you'd need 2 or more kayaks, so maybe a moot point. The Kaboat is a good compromise, and due to it's long length you can use the leverage to get it up on the roof surprisingly easy (recommend adding some cross-bars to your roof rack thanks to the 4 surfboard fins on the bottom, if going the Kaboat route).
All that said, I just recently sold my Kaboat, finding I prefer the kayak or a much larger 9.5' dinghy w/ inflatable floor & keel (w/ 6 hp outboard) most of the time. Just like with all boats, everything is a compromise, including the dinghies!
Mike