Kayaks

[Ole Unka Phil]

As for rolling a flat water boat, it's near impossible. I would not worry about needing to try and empty a kayak while on a lake, as the likelihood of needing to do it would be slim to none. You also really don't even need a spray skit for flat water. The only water you'll get in your boat is what drips off the paddle.

My suggestion is to get two single kayaks if your daughter is old enough. If not, get one cheap tandem and wait until she is to get a better boat. If you want a tandem boat, look at the Old Town's. They are decent but cheap. If you want a better boat, look at Ocean Kayaks. If you want to go one step above them, look at Perception (or dagger, but perception makes a better flat water boat IMO). If you want to get a great boat, look at Northwest Kayaks. Remember, a Kayak can range from $200 to $2000+.

Also, be sure to not skimp on the PFD, a cheap or not properly fitted one can be very uncomfortable.

Perception and Dagger are all one company now a days. And both of those are swallowed up by another company but I do think they still put out thier seperate lines.

Get a helmet too if your going to hit any whitewater. Seriously... lots o rocks. I have had a few helmets ground off in places. Would have been my head.

[Oldest Sage]

Muzikman is right on the money. Flatwater kayaking is easier than a canoe because you sit lower in the water which enhances balance and decreases wind resistance. I've kayaked more years than I've paintballed and have yet to tip one unless I was trying on flat water. Now whitewater and breaking waves are another story. It sounds like you're leading towards a Rec kayak for flat/nearly flat water. Muzikman's Old Town is good. It'll get you into a good, economical tandum kayak. But, go to the nearest REI and sit in a bunch of them. Beware of units cheaper than the Old Town's because they are generally made with less wall thickness and tend to flex too much. If moneys not an object, look at the other Muzikman and the others have recommended. No matter what, get a kayak PFD and you'll be more comfortable.