There is not the sense of being enclosed in a cockpit and if you do tip over you can simply climb right back on. There is no water to bail out. They can be made quite comfortable and maneuverable with add on seat backs and thigh straps. The drawbacks are that they are wetter and they need to be wide to compensate for the fact that you have to be sitting above the waterline, moving your center of gravity up and making the boat less stable. If you think you may want to try paddling for fun or exercise, there is sure to be a recreational boat just for you, and your whole family.
Weight is a factor to consider both in and out of the water.
Obviously if a boat weighs less it is going to be easier to tote around and get on and off your roof rack, but it is also important in the water. A lighter boat displaces less water as it moves, making it easier to move through the water. It is going to make a boat more responsive to each input of the paddler. Stiffness is a factor to consider for longer touring kayaks. A stiffer boat is a more efficient boat.