Thanks for all the great  input.  Here's a little more information--I hope people will continue to chime in.

1)  By "no solo experience", I meant "no experience paddling solo, period."  

2)  Not newbies (about 10 Q trips), but not accomplished technical paddlers.  I know the J and C, and occasionally use the pry and draw but that's about it.

3)  Unfortunately, I don't think that kayak will be an option due to logistics.  Our outfitter doesn't appear to offer them (and we're going directly from Minneapolis to LLC).

I'm tempted by the solo (I'd be the one in it most of the time), but am concerned about staying upright and keeping up.  I like swimming as much as the next guy, but . . . .