Magooch, just for the record, I don't think my Epic is a fantastic kayak, and I am not obsessed with it--it's just the boat I happen to own and paddle now, and I am pleased with it, after having modified it to better meet my needs. Maybe it's your use of the word "fantastic"....... You did post, "...the NC Expedition is without doubt, the boat to have if you are serious about sea kayaking." So you're right--you didn't actually say that NC boats are the best for every type of sea kayaking; it's just the only boat to have if you are serious about sea kayaking. That IS fantastic!