Introducing myself

I'm not trying to make a recommendation here, but I tend to agree with starting with something you can afford, get the best safety and survival gear you need, get some experience in kayaks, and then find the best boat.

I spent a lot of time in the rivers, calm bays and lakes getting used what the weather and water conditions do with a kayak, jumping out and getting back in, and finding the right survival costume before I thought I could go out to sea.

The first kayak is great in the rivers, too small to feel safe in the sea.  I knew that going-in and chose it so I wouldn't be tempted to jump in before I was ready.

I agree with Mark that you have much more control of a kayak with a paddle, but I have a Hobie for the sea.  I was hunting for an OK T-13 when I stumbled onto an unbeatable price on a Revo and went that way.

But I'm gong to beat on being safe.  Make getting the best survival gear and the right safety equipment the priority over finding the "right" kayak.  The right kayak will come, but you have to be here.