Although I can't say that I've paddled every boat of the "fast touring" variety on the market, I've found the Mariner II to be far and away the best combination of speed, maneuverability, and seaworthiness available. I've paddled boats of comparable length and speed that turn less well and are more difficult to handle in wind and seas. The Mariner's sliding seat helps to make this a very adaptable boat whether you're in following seas, or fighting into the wind. The sponsoned hull makes the II stable despite a narrow beam and exceptionally easy to roll. It's a very comfortable boat with ample room to enter & exit. This boat really is, as advertised, "the best".
