As you suggested, there is a range of different stainless steels commonly used in knives. VG-10 is very highly regarded as being well into the "premium steel" range when it comes to edge-holding and toughness. It is used in a number of Spyderco models as well as others and makes a terrific general-use knife. It will rust in a salt-water environment.<br><br>In terms of relative stainlessnes, there is generally a trade-off where you lose a lot of hardness and edge-holding to get the best resistance from rust which is obviously a big concern around salt water. Dive knives are typically made from 420 stainless which is very corrosion-resistant, but does not hold an edge very well and would not make a really great knife under dry conditions.<br><br>You will need to decide if you want a knife that holds a great edge, but you need to put some effort into keeping it cleaned and oiled or otherwise coated to prevent rust. If so, your VG-10 knife would be great. If you just want something that will be a decent knife and you don't have to worry much about rust, go with any cheap stainless knife. They are normally made from 420 or similar (440A, AUS-6). They are typically very stainless and take a decent edge, but need frequent sharpening.<br><br>If it were me, I would lean toward the VG-10 if you are talking about kayaking trips that do not span multiple days. Then you can easily rinse and coat the blade at the end of the day and you should be fine. For multiple-day trips, it will be harder to maintain the knife, and you may be happier with another steel. <br>