I started my paddling on the Deep River, below the dam at U.S. 1. It is a leisurely trip down to the confluence with the Haw and back. There's always enough water to paddle, and it is a good place to just mess around in a boat. Thirty years ago the canoe of choice was 17 feet long, made of aluminum or fiberglass, and typically weighed in at about 75 pounds. Kayaks were usually hand-made of fiberglass.
Today there are many choices and boats have gotten smaller and lighter.
There are many manufacturers of canoes, kayaks, and sea kayaks. The sea kayak is often used in coastal waters, but it works well on inland flatwater. Boats are available in rugged plastic, sleek lighter-weight fiberglass. Some of the new canoes weigh less than 40 pounds, making them easier for a person to manage on their own. Most everyone has been in a canoe at some time or another.