Just to get into the mix: Consider a canoe.
12-14' canoes can be had for the same price (or less) that kayaks of similar quality. Many can more easily take a trolling motor - just case you ever don't want to paddle. They're of similar balance to a kayak (I find most canoes easier to stand in than a SOT, but I've never used a SINK). Weights are similar. You can potentially bring someone else with you if you ever want to. Also, gear management (to me) is easier because more stuff can be "in" with you. With a SOT you have to last it all down on top, with a SINK it's "under" the hull.
...and heck, you can even paddle with a double-plade until you learn a good J-stroke
Kayaks are definitely more "in" right now, and as such great deals on used canoes (or new) are findable.
