Hey wavehog, I had a look and some of those boats look interesting. That new fangled rudder might catch on if it isn't too spendy and if it doesn't damage easily. I don't think I would like the slot in the stern. I like very sharp, clean ends on a boat.

Then there are the NC Kayaks that require no skeg and no rudder. Check em out; they are the best built and prettiest boats I've ever seen, but they are a handful to turn without putting them right up on their edge. Unless something else comes along, I might just end up with their 19 footer for long distance stuff, but I'll never give up my Sirocco for pure fun.