Again, thanks to all for the suggestions and advise - since I know almost nothing about boats it's all really useful! Jayatwork - that picture makes a pretty compelling areguement for a 'toon. Ducksterman, I like the look of that pram as an alternative. In my heart I like the idea of a kayak but I guess I really need to rent one for an outing and see how it works for me in the real world.

All the best,

Cliff