Chris wrote:
ok who has had to make this decision or who has both? I think the
inflatable would be ultra convenient but does it feel cheap and unstable?
I plan to kayak Florida rivers/lakes/swamps/intercoastals. Maybe some Gulf.

Here is a short comparison list. Note that I'm talking about the
higher priced inflatable kayaks in the $600 to $1200 price range,
not the cheap fabric-less vinyl models that should cost under $100.
For the type of paddling you plan to do, I'd buy a sea kayak, unless
you plan to fly to various destinations, in which case I'd suggest
the Innova Sunny $649 or Aire Sea Tiger $1995.

IK advantages

more comfortable
less restrictive, can alter paddling position
self-bailing for quick recovery
safer among rocks (no pins)
easier to transport
can camp out of the boat

hardshell advantages

easier to Eskimo-roll
less affected by wind
generally higher performance
safer in big water (can roll)
usually less expensive
more popular, used by clubs