I have moved canoes a number of ways through the water and they all have their good and bad points. The problem is people think of canoes as primitive little boats that are used primarily by aboriginal people to chase down settlers in their flat boats.

Canoes are highly refined efficient boats and have been for centuries.
They require balance to work and thats no lie. I've been wet a time or two. I don't paddle a canoe if I can help it. I use oars on rowing stanchions. The seat is a little lower and forward of typical in my canoe but the ergonomics of rowing makes this the perfect location. I can eat up water and cover more distance than any two people with paddles over a long haul. This rig is particularly good on lake crossings.

And I'll gunnel pump a canoe as well if I am in a daring mood.

Don