another point about the merlin Ii - the one I test paddled had the higher seat set up for kneeling - the one I bought has the lower seat set up for sitting - the lower seat (3 or 4 inches, I forget) is definitely more stable, but harder to get your feet under if you do want to kneel - I do all my paddling sitting, so the lower seat was best for me.

I would assume that Northstar offers the same options, or would oblige you to make the change