Yep. I was looking at them and similar lightweight canoes as a more versatile kayak substitute rather than a hauler. My nearly 67 year old back doesn't enjoy lifting a heavy more capable boat anymore. I wanted something the complete opposite of my old Grumman aluminum tank! Like you said in post #2, first figure the need/use, then the budget. Then start shopping.Those Hornbeck boats are nice, but they are basically open kayaks... the biggest tandem they offer is a huge 20.. with a max payload of 575 lbs, that's not very much. If you're wanting to travel with family and pack gear.. some of the prospectors can carry up to 1400 lbs...
I have been eyeballing the Wenonah kevlar's, just missed a nice 17-18' one for 500$.... Damnoh yeah.. I really like Wenonah canoes, not sure how I left them out... they tend to be slightly faster canoes but tighter (smaller) on the ends so not quite as roomy for the front paddler.. which may be good, may be bad,, depends on what you want.