It's really a choice between sitting inside (water and balance issues) versus sitting on top. My choice came down to a dedicated fishing platform with ample stowage space for camping gear, safety equipment, batteries, bait, etc. I also do lots of surf launching and I needed a platform with scuppers. After the wave has broken over me it takes a few seconds for my deck and seating area to be free of water and it's not long before I'm paddling 'high and dry'. It's also great when it comes to stability when fighting an oversize fish, there's no risk of tipping with all the 'Johnnies' in the water... lol.