Hi Jim, I live in metro Seattle. I personally don't go in the Sound alone unless I stay close to shore. The chop, swell, rips, shoals, wind can get pretty hairy depending on where you are. Ideally, you would build two singles simultaneously or a double. In an emergency, two singles are better than a double. The lake is a different story; water temp makes all the difference. Kayaking is definately more fun, safer in groups.