[Paddlewise] Need kayak-try-and-buy advice

I'm a novice paddler, trying to compile a list of kayaks to try out for 
possible purchase on my next trip to the closest substantial dealer, which 
means a 2+ hour drive, and I'm hoping I can get a little advice here. I'm 49 
years old, not terribly athletic but not exactly frail, 5' 2", and want a sea 
kayak for day touring and possible weekend trips in intracoastal waterways, 
bays, and some rivers. My budget hovers around $1000, and I already have a 
terrific paddle, PFD, and other safety equipment, so I only need a boat.

My list so far includes the CD Breeze, the Perception Catalina, and I'm 
thinking of adding the Wilderness Systems Shaman. (The dealer also sells 
Necky and Dagger boats, but I don't know much about them.) By the way, I will 
be comparing these to the old Perception Chinook NW that I've been paddling 
for most of my novitiate--I'm looking for something with essentially the same 
characteristics, but somewhat shorter and lighter so I can handle it more 
easily on land.

So, any thoughts on the three on my list so far? Any possible additions, from 
the boat makers I have to choose from? Thanks for any advice.
--JJ
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