Jim,

Nice deal on the boat.

Don't use the spray skirt unless you actually need it -- kayaking in heavy surf, etc. If you want to use it, spend some time practicing your "wet exit" -- getting out of the boat when you are flipped upside down. It's a lot different with a spray skirt. Do this is calm water with a buddy. Most flatwater paddling in a recreational kayak does not require a skirt.

A spray skirt is useful in a sea kayak when the paddler will edge or lean the boat for maneuverability -- keeps water from coming in the cockpit during the lean. Same thing in a whitewater boat. Of course a skirt also lets the paddler Eskimo roll if needed.