Jake and Tom - that's my belief also, that the sea-state information is included in the beaufort scale info to help you identify the wind range (extra clues as it were). But I was presented with a US Sailing chart detailing it (which I have to admit I haven't studied in detail yet) with wording that may be construed to imply that the sea state was part of the beaufort scale, not just a visual clue.

More question than complaint, but all part of being the score-master. All these things can change what rating is used, and that of course can make the difference where people fall in the ratings. Thus there is always some discussion as to the how and why...