Aurora

We purchased the Perception Aurora to do recreational kayaking with our kids. It is a great kayak for that purpose with two adult seats and a removable kids seat. It tracks well with the rudder controlled by foot pedals. Great for stability but a heavy to carry - definitely two people to load and carry.

I bought a used demo Aurora last year and have been very happy with it. It's roomy, easily carries 2 large (200+ lbs) adults, has comfortable seats, and feels sprightly in Maine coastal bays with 10-15 knot winds and light chop. It tracks pretty well without a rudder but I would get one unless you're only going to use it in calm sheltered water.

The boat is definitely heavy to lug around. I would guess the advertised 73 lbs is an underestimate. A wheeled caddy of some type would definitely help.

The flat bottom gives great primary stability, and does not seem to make it feel sluggish. I recommend it!

After searching for a kayak that would allow our family to start enjoying kayaking and at the same time allow for one of us to escape by him or herself, we found the answer in the Aurora. This boat will have to convert at least a few of us in paddlers for a lifetime. Be warned though, it's heavy and sometimes a chore to haul. Make sure you get your Paddleboy to help you schlepp this one to and fro. Include plans to get the full package. The expedition model with rudder is not a luxury, you'll need it with two persons or fully loaded with a little wind. Be prepared to be seen by hardcore paddlers as an odd duck. Some of them will see you as a recreational 'Sunday Driver'. Their problem of course, since paddling this one requires the same dedication and sometimes quite a muscle. I prepare to go all the way with it. We're getting a sprayskirt and wetsuits so that we can paddle right through the winter. It's a stable boat that will prepare the kids nicely in the art of paddling for the rest of their lives.