I don't have opinions about which of those 3 boats might be best for you, but I did a little google search (type in used ndk explorer) and found a demo explorer for sale in California, at $1900 [edit to change to $1950]. I have no idea if that's a good price, or how far the shop is from where you live, but hey--I drove 18 hours to pick up my kayak, so how long a drive can it really be? If it's not too far to drive, they might let you try it out. Here's the link: http://www.riptidesandrapids.com/Used_or_on_sale.htm
Just got a Seaward newsletter that says they’ll soon be producing a new version of the Legend with a bit of V in the hull. Also says that they’ll be building Foster’s Echo “in the near future,” for whatever that’s worth.
Seward adding the “Quantum” model Look like they are getting on the bandwagon of lower front and rear deck boats too.
The Quantum - Seaward’s new kayak
The Seaward design team is taking a quantum leap forward and introducing a new composite kayak for 2006. It’s in the British performance style with a clipper bow, low foredeck and low rear deck for rolling ease. Our supporters and the paddling public have demanded a skegged kayak built with Seaward’s quality and incorporating Seaward’s industry leading features. The Quantum will feature a multi-chined hull and a skeg, not a rudder. It retains the innovative elements of Seaward’s safeHATCH system, comfortCockpit and Self Rescue Systems which will make this a decidedly Seaward Kayak.