Big boats definitely feel different then the smaller ones different purposes. I agree with your comment of not being connected to the water. Same contrast between the CV16 and CV23. That's why you need two boats!
Did you ever find a 3/4ton Avalanche? Looks like in one of your pics that you traded in the jeep for another Avalanche.
Yes, I'm back to a 1/2 ton Avalanche (2WD)...tired of fixing transfer cases & 4WD stuff for 5 days of use down here. I did find a few 2500's, but locally they tend to be jacked up, big tires, etc, etc...and I'm not sure I want to pay the fuel costs. The z66 has a rear locker & traction control, and a much softer ride and it got me everywhere I needed to be last winter. The Durango is really a Jeep Grand Cherokee under the covers, and its great in the winter. I feel like I've got us in a good place vehicle-wise now.
We towed Marge with the Durango, and it did great. I love the digital dash where I can call up the Trans Temp and just watch it...never broke 175 degrees towing in 95+ degree heat...it did great, but the trailer could wag the back end at times. The Avalanche will be fine too now that I've sorted my mystery click when turning corners & towing.
I am leaning towards reuniting the bow cover & boat with a CVZ-18 in MI, but need to see better pictures as I don't want a hull like Goldie's again. A SX-190 would also be a nice sports boat, but its not a Carlson either...