Ok, I can give you advice in all situations. First, I've owned driftboats and catarafts. I've also have rowed rafts too. I'll definitely go with what Osprey said above in every aspect. But, if you had a custom frame built, you could have storage areas built in your frame like I have (Osprey has seen them, I can put two big rubbermaid boxes on both sides of me for storage). I'd suggest going with the 16 foot cataraft for 3 people. It'll handle the weight well and will still give you maneuverability (I've had my Aire 16ft loaded with myself, two full size adults, two 100+ lb dogs, and gear and didn't list or take much extra water). Go to http://www.riverraiders.com (if it doesn't come up try www.riverraider.com), they have pkg deals on cats/rafts that are reasonable. I don't have the webpage handy, but do a search for Northwest Rafters Association and they have a webpage that sell used cats/rafts. You can get deals there too. I wouldn't go with a raft though. As Osprey said they don't track well and they DON'T cut waves well when you're running rapids. They push up and roll too much due to lack of weight. $700 is a good deal though, but it's WAY too big of a boat. A 16ft cat compared to a 16 raft are completely different. A cat is more maneuverable. When it comes down to it, it's your call on what you will buy. I'd go cataraft. They're so much more versatile. I'd say NO to buying the raft or pac. It may be a good deal, but you'll end up not liking them. I've had a few chances to buy both, but since I've had/used both I know it's not worth it. If you have any questions let me know, I'll direct you best I can.....Jerry

------------------
you haven't lived til you've rowed a cataraft. Friends don't let friends run Outcasts.

[This message has been edited by Steelheader69 (edited 07-26-2000).]