The Wilderness actually performs better loaded. Which what you will be with 4 on board. Some feel it is less stable when lightly loaded. My son prefers it to the Q17 that I have now. If I am going on a trip with him we are taking the Wilderness no questions asked. I got the Q17 for me and the wife. She is not a strong enough paddler to help hold the Wilderness when it is empty with a cross wind.