Very stable, predictable handling, even with three kids bouncing around. Inspires confidence in rough water, stays really dry. Huge capacity of 1100 pounds. Still quite nice to paddle solo. Tracks well, but also turns well due to the fair amount of rocker. I have the kevlar duraflex layup with aluminum gunwales and it is nice and stiff, but ridiculously strong - you can flip it over and walk on it no problem. Weight of around 68 pounds is quite manageable for most portages. Overall, this is just a great all around boat that will get you where you want to go, with all your gear, in pretty much any kind of water any other boat can go on. Crafstmanship of the Clipper boats is second to none.