Have you tried kayaking before? Some folks can really get into it, but some consider it hard work going nowhere, 'specially folks as old as 55.
May want to invest in a canoe for two with a small outboard. Or not.
WAIT A MINUTE! What's wrong with sail boats?
I would think something like this would be more your style Murph, they also make different types that seat more then one person.My use would mostly be on a lake that has a river run through it. Can get some good waves from the wind and other boats. Some learning lessons I am sure.