I absolutely LOVE my Pungo. That being said, I have to tell you that I have not had it out on very large water (closest being the water leading into one of the Finger Lakes (Cayuga) in our region. I mostly take it out on smallish lakes or canals. I am about to embark on my very first river adventure very soon. I've been assured that my boat is more than capable of handling the larger water and waves (should I ever get out on the bigger water). I have no issues with the turning capabilities, although I have not had to make any intensely sharp turns out of necessesity. One of my favorite things to do is to increase the speed as much as I can and bank a turn. The boat leans, the waves roll and I'm having pure fun! I'll be trying out the Susquehanna for kicks sometime soon (preparation for my sojourn and to make sure I'm good with a 5mph moving current). I'll have to try out the upriver paddling tactics...see if I can find any tubers around...LOL! I'll let you know! I will say that one downfall of the Pungo is the cargo area. The lids, unlike the Old Townes, are like the lids you find on Tupperware. It is difficult to get it completely shut and often ends up having some water inside (not much but enough to get your stuff wet....no need for a bilge pump...maybe a sponge though) and is kind of inconvienent. Luckily, a dry bag is an easy fix. I have a friend who took out a Perception and hated it. It tracks for crap and wasn't comfortable for her at all. Another friend took out a Wilderness Series Sit-Upon and she didn't like that either. I think that was more the case of her preferring to be sitting down in, with more leg coverage though. I'd be interested to hear about what you take out. No matter what, have a great time!!!! I can see the funny looks from the tubers already!!! *BIG STUPID GRIN*