Welcome Greg !!
you did not mention if you are looking to buy new or used - do you have a budget ?
how old are your kids ?
Comparing the welded vs riveted boats is like the Ford vs Chevy arena.
it all depends on how it was taken care of and used, should you purchase a used one.
"the occasional choppy patch" will not affect a riveted boat in the least bit.
I had a 1032 G3 all welded Jon for two days . . .
VERY tipsy !!!
so while you are looking for the short model, pay particular
attention to the bottom width..... as well as the capacity tag. (more wider = more stable).
a beginning start would be to calculate your weight, weight of any
passengers, batteries, fuel, motor, ice chest etc etc etc
so you will know what the "cargo weight" will be when you do find
something desireable. also - why do you need the "shortest" made ?
storage issues, transporting in a truck bed, etc . . . .
.