comments:
the excursion pro model is significantly nicer. it's tougher material and will last longer. saying that...it's still a low-pressure boat. Having spent quite a bit of time in Explorer K2 and similar boats...I'll likely never buy another low-pressure kayak. For me, it needs a drop stitch floor at least. that ups the budget, and I hate to be the person to just say 'spend more' so, if you are really tight on budget, that K2 @ $45 might be a way to start. It'll get you on the water, and I've floated lakes and rivers on one. any wind, watch out. be aware of rootwads and submerged trees. Have a decent PFD. $140 for the Excursion is a good price, and probably worthwhile for the upgrade. buuuut if you eventually want to go to something drop stitch, then that $100 difference could be put towards that instead. if you can stretch the budget, something like this would be a major upgrade: https://www.amazon.com/Inflatable-Capacity-Portable-Luminous-Adjustable/dp/B0GXGDMM3B/