I would go with the Lowe. Mines a 1710 model. Got it when the kids were little. They could get up and walk around and I didn't have any worries about them fall overboard. It will easy handle 4-5 foot waves. Sure the wind does move it but I'll take the safety of being a big high sided boat anytime. Leave it outside in the winter ( 50 miles from lake Erie) and never have had a loose rivet or any rot. Floors and transom are solid. Bought it new in 88.