Moonman: For a trip, 525# would be about it.
I still love the cruiser but with a load there just isn't enough freeboard for my comfort. That's probably partly why i like the way it paddles, the low profile, less susceptible to wind and i think it's fast. I don't have experience actually paddling a lot of dift boats. Maneuverability in waves is a good consideration. It looks like the freedom 17 also has a fair amount of rocker.
interesting that winisk description doesn't just give overall rocker value but differentiates bow rocker and stern rocker Bow Rocker 3-1/4" & Stern Rocker 1". this might explain why the bow is less 'sticky'.  (also noticed that bow rocker on the swift product website is 2.5". That's quite a difference from the plans)