I do really like the idea of the Vagabond and it may be the way I end up going...but would be looking for a used one.  I can't remember off-hand but the price on the Vagabond I think was $2500-3500.  I am very used to the Poke boats and know they are tough...one of mine has been on several trips a year since 1996.  They are also much more stable than some others I have tried...my brother has Old Town kayaks and I can't balance to get in/out of them due to configuration of keel outside and junk under one's feet/butt on the inside.  >:(

I have three Poke boats up here now, they are all the 12 foot models.  I estimate I can get about 350 pounds of gear and self in a 12 footer, but I am pushing the limits of staying afloat and the weight makes the boat plow more than I like.  Once half the food is consumed floating and trim are so much better!

I did spend part of a trip pulling my (then 85 yr old) Dad upwind on Knife Lake; he in his own Poke boat.  It was a pain to do...mostly because of the jerk caused at the end of every stroke of the paddle.  Some kind of bungee cord shock absorb-er would help with that.