Walkaround or center console is more convenient for fishing and anchoring than open bow ski-boat style, IMO. Full cuddy (like mine ) is the worst.

As to safety in big water, it depends on the crew as much as the boat. If you are very alert and willing to pull up all the gear and run for safe waters BEFORE things get ugly, you would probably be OK in a rowboat (on a calm day). Conversely, if you ignore warning signs, like a splash of water coming over the transom every few waves or your buddies are getting thrown off their feet now and then, you might have a tragic outcome in a purpose-built ocean boat.

Also consider how long the run back to safe waters will be. 15 miles can be a LONG way to go if you are quartering heavy seas and having trouble staying on plane. You might also feel extra-stressed if one or more on the boat are trying hard not to puke, and begging you to get back in more quickly (DAMHIKT). That extra 5 kts might put you into a dangerous condition.