Kayak: Sit-in or Sit-on top?

Question

I'm looking to buy a kayak. I've just recently started kayaking and have taken a class. However, I'm not sure if it would be more beneficial for me to buy a sit-in or sit-on top kayak. I won't be kayaking in any rough waters for now; at least not until I gain more experience. However, I will be going out on lakes, canals, and calmer rivers. Of these types of waters, which type of kayak is prefered: sit-in or sit-on top? I appreciate as much insight as possible.

Answer 1

Your preference, and as the other answer said... water temp.  If you live in Florida and the water is warm, and you might want to swim from your kayak and snorkel?  Then sit on top.

I prefer sit inside, but that's because of the kind of paddling I like to do.  I like to pack the boat full of camping gear and go for a few days at a time.  Water tight hatches, seaworthiness and a longer narrower boat allow me to paddle more efficiently and more quickly to my destinations.  

Answer 2

I depends on where you live. If you live anywhere where it could get colder then definitely a traditional kayak. It's nice to climb in and put on the spray skirt and keep your bottom half nice and toasty and dry while you're cruising out on a cool morning.

Answer 3

I had similar questions when I started looking at kayaks. I was told to buy something that gave my skills some growing room. That way I wouldn't need to buy a new boat in a year or two.

     If you have taken classes you probably worked on rescues, braces and such. Those techniques are difficult with sit ons. I would suggest if you ever plan on getting a sit-in kayak, or if you ever plan on touring go with the sit in now. You can get used to it right away.

      Also sit-ons are not usually designed for rivers. If you hit ANY rapids (even class 1 or 2 - small ripples) you have no support against your hips to brace.

     I suggest a sit in unless you plan on kayaking only on lakes long term. But I also suggest a short in length kayak. Rivers are often narrow and curvy. and long boats are a lot more difficult to maneuver.