One thought is for traveling loaded you shouldn't have to paddle the canoe backwards from the front seat. I've always been able to paddle my short tandem from the stern when loaded and only paddled it backwards sometimes when empty. Just put your packs and such up front to hold the canoe down. You have a ton more power and control from the back seat in MHO. I sold an Aderondak to a guy not having a chance to paddle it or anything. I think it would be a good boat. But like db when I saw the specs, I was surprized at how wide it is. If it is possible borrow the boat for a day and put about the amount of wieght you'll be carrying in the front and try it out. The only thing about soloing and especially from the stern is without a bow man you don't get to see those hidden rocks and react. So you might bump a few... I never flipped and it was rarely a problem for me. Good luck...