Sunset Seascape 3 ways - which works best?

Processing expands our ability to offer different presentations of the same image - generally I know which "style" is going to suit best but sometimes the choice is more difficult. Have you got a favourite and if so why?

1. Colour



2. Colour with more contrast and a Vignette.



3. Monochrome.

Probably not a surprise that my favourite is the 3rd iteration (monochrome). The why is not as simple as I like monochrome work though. All 3 versions of the image have their merits and except for one small detail I would have most likely landed on image 2 as my favourite for the rich colour and atmosphere - that detail being the burnt out section of the sky in the top right of the image.
The treatment of the sky in the mono version does not draw the eye to the bright spot in the same way as the colour versions. Image 2 cropped to the top of the cliff, and therefore eliminating the bright spot, would probably get my vote for the beautiful colours and light on the rocks in the foreground
Great image and a very interesting question, thank you

I endorse Stephen's views as above. The third one, though mono, looks realistic and very well composed and exposed.

Monochrome for me, nice work.

#1

#2 the vignette is far too heavy and a vignette on this type of photo I think is unlikley to work anyway
#3 a sunset without colour seems very odd indeed and leaves just a photo of some rocks

Certain subjects demand colour and a sunset is such a subject and the first image is the best in my opinion