Tandem kayaks are built and designed for paddlers who enjoy kayaking with a partner. It’s a great way to share the experience without exhausting all your energy, as you can rely on each other for support. Kayaking with a partner can make the whole process more enjoyable and easier for both of you.
However, choosing the right tandem kayak requires careful consideration. You don’t want to end up with one that doesn’t fit your needs or budget. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of some of the best tandem kayaks available. With these options, you can find the perfect fit for both you and your partner.
Top 10 Best Tandem Kayaks
| Kayaks | Brand | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ocean Kayak Malibu Tandem Kayak | Ocean Kayak | 57 pounds | |
| Lifetime 10 Foot, Two person Tandem Kayak | Lifetime | 60 pounds | |
| Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Sport Kayak | Sea Eagle | 26 pounds | |
| Intex Explorer K2 Kayak | Intex | 31.13 pounds | |
| Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak | Intex | 26 pounds | |
| AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Tandem Kayak | AdvancedFrame | 52 pounds | |
| Sevylor Coleman Colorado, 2-Person Kayak | Sevylor | 65 pounds | |
| Airhead Montana Two Person Inflatable Kayak | Airhead | 36 pounds | |
| Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TK181 Kayak | Brooklyn | 68 pounds | |
| Vibe Skipjack 120T Tandem Fishing Kayak | Vibe | 72 pounds |
Ocean Kayak Malibu Sit-On-Top Recreational Tandem Kayak
The Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Kayak is one of the best sit-on-top tandem kayaks available, perfect for families or friends. Its open design features two removable seats, which can be placed in the bow, stern, or middle of the kayak depending on the water conditions.
The Malibu Tandem kayak is equipped with foot wells in different positions for both seats, making it comfortable for paddlers of all sizes. With a weight capacity of 425 lbs, there’s plenty of space to store your gear, equipment, and even kids.
The kayak also features carrying handles on either side and gear straps, making it easy to transport and secure your belongings. Plus, a skid plate ensures the bottom of the kayak stays intact even on rocky surfaces, making it highly durable.
This tandem kayak is perfect for beginners and intermediates and is highly stable and secure in the water. If you want to learn more about the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Kayak, check out the full review here.
Why choose this Kayak?
- Two removable seats
- Perfect for different weather conditions
- Foot wells for both seats
- Ample space for gear
- Carrying handles and straps
- High stability and security in the water.
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 12’
Weight: 57 lbs
Material: High-Density Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 425 lbs
Lifetime 10 Foot, Two person Tandem Kayak
The Lifetime Two Person Tandem Kayak is a practical and highly rated option for those seeking a two-person kayak. Weighing only 60 pounds, it’s easy to transport to and from the water.
The kayak features two soft backrests attached with straps for added comfort during kayaking. The High-Dry seats also protect you from the splash of water. Additionally, there are foot wells on either side to accommodate paddlers of any size.
Molded carrying handles make it very easy to transport this kayak. Its tunnel hull design provides ultra-stability and tracking, making it almost impossible to flip. The complete design of this kayak ensures stability and firm maneuvering in the water.
Lifetime offers a 5-year limited manufacturing warranty for this kayak, giving you added peace of mind.
If you want to learn more about the Lifetime Two Person Tandem Kayak, check out the full review.
Why choose this Kayak?
- Molded carry handles
- Comfortable backrests with straps
- High-Dry seats
- Foot wells in multiple positions
- Ultra-stable design
- 5-year limited manufacturing warranty.
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 10’
Weight: 60 lbs
Material: High-Density Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 500 lbs
Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Sport Kayak
The Sea Eagle SE370 is an inflatable sit-on-top tandem kayak that’s often considered the best value tandem kayak available. This kayak features two inflatable, removable seats, and it also comes with two paddles. With a weight capacity of 650 pounds, up to three people can comfortably fit in this kayak with extra room for gear and equipment.
There are two skegs at the bottom of the kayak that ensure incredible stability and tracking while you paddle. This kayak is even suitable for Class III whitewater difficulty. The Sea Eagle SE370 also includes two AB30 7’10″” 4 Part Paddles with asymmetrical blades and aluminum shafts, making it one of the best inflatable tandem kayaks.
Being an inflatable tandem kayak, it only weighs 26 pounds, making it easy to transport to and from the water. You can inflate this kayak in less than 15 minutes using the provided foot pump, and it takes less than 15 minutes to deflate and dry it for packing. It requires very little space in your trunk for storage, providing a delightful and easy post-kayaking experience.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Sea Eagle SE370, click here for the full review.
Why this Inflatable Tandem Kayak?
- Inflatable design for easy transportation
- Removable seats
- Two paddles included
- Two skegs for stability and tracking
- Lightweight design.
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 12’ 6”
Weight: 26 lbs
Material: PVC
Maximum Capacity: 650 lbs
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is a highly popular SOT tandem kayak that is widely available in the market. Its unique banana-like appearance makes it a popular choice among families and children, while its bright yellow color ensures high visibility in case of emergencies.
This double kayak is perfect for slow and calm rivers and lakes, and comes equipped with two removable seats that can be taken out to make room for additional gear or passengers. It has a weight capacity of up to 400 pounds, and also features a removable skeg for greater stability and tracking.
Thanks to its lightweight design, the Intex Explorer K2 double kayak is easy to transport to and from the water. Its heavy-duty vinyl construction makes it highly resistant to punctures and damage. The package includes 2 aluminum paddles, a hi-output pump, and a carrying bag.
Read the full review of the Intex Explorer K2 here.
Why Choose This Inflatable Tandem Kayak?
- Puncture-resistant vinyl construction
- Removable seats
- Includes two paddles
- Skeg for added stability
- Lightweight and easy to transport
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 10’ 3”
Weight: 31.13 lbs
Material: Puncture resistant vinyl
Maximum Capacity: 400 lbs
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
The Intex Challenger K2 is a sporty tandem kayak with a fun and trendy design that ensures easy paddling. It offers amazing performance in calm waters and is a perfect tandem kayak for the money. Its bright green color and sporty design make it highly visible in the water.
The long nose of this kayak is designed for storage, giving you plenty of additional space, although you need to put your gear in a plastic bay as it is a mesh cargo bay.
The kayak features two comfortable inflatable seats that provide the utmost comfortable paddling experience. These seats allow you to paddle for hours without getting tired. The spacious cockpit provides enough room for the kayakers to move with ease. The kayak also features built-in water bottle holders.
In terms of rigidity and toughness, the Intex Challenger K2 Tandem kayak is made of rugged, Super-Tough vinyl, making it puncture and UV resistant. It features two separate air chambers, so if one chamber gets punctured for any reason, the boat remains afloat with the help of the other chamber.
Boston valves allow you to quickly inflate and deflate the kayak. There is a removable skeg that ensures greater stability and tracking. This inflatable tandem is US Coast Guard approved and can easily pass the test of time.
Why choose this 2 Person Tandem Kayak?
- Mesh Cargo Bay
- Removable skeg for stability
- Two Air Chambers
- Comfortable seating
- Bottle holders
- Puncture and UV resistant
- US Coast Guard approved
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 12’ 6”
Weight: 26 lbs
Material: PVC
Maximum Capacity: 650 lbs
AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Tandem Kayak
The Advanced Elements Tandem Kayak is made using aluminum ribs, making it a rigid ride. The bow and stern of this inflatable tandem kayak are also made up of aluminum, which helps with better tracking. The three layers of material make it extremely puncture-resistant.
There are two removable seats offering great comfort to the paddlers, and these seats can be attached to three different positions, giving you an option to fit them as per your convenience. It is very easy to inflate and deflate this kayak. Simply unfold the kayak, inflate, attach the seats, and you’re good to go! The rigid shape of this inflatable tandem makes it very stable and lets you have full control over it.
Another awesome feature about this kayak is that it is a convertible kayak, which means you can convert it from an open deck to a closed cockpit – from a sit-on-top tandem kayak to a sit-inside tandem kayak. It gives you a lot of space to store your stuff, which can be tied up with a bungee in your waterproof bag.
Why Choose This Convertible Tandem Kayak?
- Convertible from open deck to close
- Aluminum ribs
- Removable seats with three position options
- Spacious cockpit
- Three layers for puncture resistance
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 15’
Weight: 52 lbs
Material: Triple layers with aluminium ribs
Maximum Capacity: 550 lbs
Sevylor Coleman Colorado, 2-Person Kayak
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2 Person kayak is among the best 2-person sit-on kayaks available for a very reasonable price. The Colorado 2 is made up of 18-gauge PVC, which makes it rigid, and its 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover make it extremely puncture-resistant and durable.
There are multiple air chambers, which is an important safety feature as one chamber remains inflated if one gets punctured. It features an airtight system that guarantees no leaking. If you are a person who enjoys hands-free fishing, then the Colorado 2 features Berkley Quick Set adjustable Rod Holders that enhance your fishing experience. Moreover, Sevylor trolling motor fittings enhance your fishing abilities. It also has paddle holders to secure your paddle while fishing. Ultimately, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado is among the best fishing tandem kayaks available in the market.
Why Choose This Tandem Kayak?
- Tough 18-gauge PVC
- Puncture-resistant and durable
- Multiple air chambers
- Berkley Quick Set Rod Holders
- Sevylor trolling motor fittings
- Mesh storage pockets
- 1-year warranty
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 10’ 9″
Weight: 65 lbs
Material:18 gauge PVC, 1000D tarpaulin bottom, 840D nylon cover
Maximum Capacity: 500 lbs
Airhead Montana Two Person Inflatable Kayak
Airhead Montana Two-Person Inflatable Kayak boasts a unique and highly attractive design that makes it ideal for various activities such as camping, cruising yachts, and exploring remote areas. It is a versatile inflatable tandem that can be easily maneuvered on still lakes and moderate white water. The kayak is lightweight, compact, and can be transported easily to and from the water.
One of the key features that make the Airhead Montana kayak stand out is its safety features. It has three air chambers that make it the safest inflatable tandem kayak on the market. If one chamber gets punctured, the other two will keep the boat afloat, providing added security for the kayaker. Additionally, all three chambers are enclosed by 840-denier nylon with UV and water-resistant coatings, ensuring maximum durability and protection against the elements.
To ensure maximum comfort for kayakers, the Airhead Montana kayak is designed with neoprene elbow guards. These guards provide cushioning and protection against the hard edges of the kayak, allowing kayakers to enjoy extended periods of paddling without experiencing discomfort.
The kayak also comes equipped with ample storage space to securely store your gear while out on the water. Its high visibility orange color ensures it is visible in the water, making it easy to locate in case of an emergency.
The Boston valves on either side of the kayak allow for easy inflation and deflation, while the carrying handles on either side make it easy to transport the kayak to and from the water. Additionally, the kayak’s bottom fins offer added stability and tracking for a more enjoyable paddling experience.
Overall, the Airhead Montana Two-Person Inflatable Kayak is an excellent choice for those seeking a safe, comfortable, and versatile kayak that is easy to transport and offers a great paddling experience. Its compact size, lightweight design, and unique safety features make it an ideal option for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable inflatable tandem kayak.
Why This Convertible Tandem Kayak?
- Three Air Chambers: The kayak has three air chambers, which makes it the safest inflatable tandem kayak available. Even if one chamber gets punctured, the other two will keep the boat afloat, ensuring maximum safety for the kayaker.
- Neoprene Elbow Guards: The kayak is designed with neoprene elbow guards, which provide cushioning and protection against the hard edges of the kayak, ensuring maximum comfort for kayakers.
- High Visibility Orange Color: The kayak’s high visibility orange color ensures it is easily visible in the water, making it easy to locate in case of an emergency.
- Lightweight and Compact Design: The kayak is lightweight, compact, and easy to transport, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy exploring remote areas.
- Enclosed by 840-Denier Nylon: The kayak’s three air chambers are enclosed by 840-denier nylon with UV and water-resistant coatings, ensuring maximum durability and protection against the elements.
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 12’
Weight: 36 lbs
Material: High density polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 500 lbs
Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TK181 12-Foot 5-inch Sit On Top Tandem
The Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TK181 is the perfect beginner tandem kayak, with several features that make it stand out from the rest. It is a must-have for tandem fishing, with seven fishing rod holders, three of which are adjustable, ensuring an enhanced fishing experience. Additionally, there are waterproof storage hatches to keep your valuables, such as your wallet, keys, and snacks, safe and dry.
The kayak also features two paddle rests, allowing you to keep your hands free without losing your paddles. There is a rear cargo area with a bungee cord that can be used to store your gear or clothing and secure them with the bungee. Multiple carrying handles make it easy to transport to or from the water, and the BKC offers a five-year warranty on this two-person kayak, keeping the customer’s satisfaction a top priority.
Why this Tandem Beginner Kayak?
- Seven Fishing Rod Holders: This kayak has seven fishing rod holders, three of which are adjustable, providing an optimal fishing experience for anglers.
- Waterproof Storage Hatches: The kayak has waterproof storage hatches that ensure the safety and dryness of your valuables, such as your wallet, keys, and snacks.
- Rear Cargo Area: The kayak has a rear cargo area with a bungee cord that allows for the safe and secure storage of gear or clothing.
- Multiple Carrying Handles: The kayak has multiple carrying handles, making it easy to transport to or from the water, even for one person.
- Five-Year Warranty: The kayak comes with a five-year warranty, providing customers with peace of mind and ensuring the quality of the product.
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 12’ 6″
Weight: 68 lbs
Material: Durable Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 450 lbs
Vibe Skipjack 120T Tandem Fishing Kayak
The Vibe Skipjack 120T is a tandem sit on top fishing kayak that can accommodate two or three people and is also great for travel. Despite its length of 12 feet, it is easy to handle and maneuver smoothly in the water like a small boat. It has a weight capacity of 500 pounds, making it suitable for multiple people and their gear.
For fishing enthusiasts, this kayak comes with 2 flush mount rod holders with caps and 4 mounting points for Scotty, RAM, or Railblaza mount rod holders. It also features 2 V-Wave Hatches to keep your important gear dry, cup holders, and a rear cargo area with bungee tie-down straps for larger gear or equipment.
The kayak has 2 Phantom Grip Handles and 2 molded in handles at the bow and stern for easy transportation to and from the water. Its stable and smooth tracking design makes it an ideal choice for paddling in all types of water.
This Vibe tandem fishing kayak is made of a single piece, leak-proof, and durable construction, making it one of the best tandem kayaks in the market with lots of upgrades. Moreover, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring the customer’s satisfaction and peace of mind.
Why This Tandem Fisher Kayak?
- 2 flush mount rod holders and 4 mounting points
- 2 V-Wave Hatches
- Cup holders
- Rear cargo area
- 2 Phantom Grip Handles and 2 molded in handles
- Single piece, leak-proof and durable construction
- Limited Lifetime warranty
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Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 12’
Weight: 72 lbs
Material: High density Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 500 lbs
US Coast Guard Suggestions for Tandem Kayaks
The US Coast Guard and other departments also have suggestions for selecting the best tandem kayaks. Here are some of their recommendations:
- Look for kayaks with a weight capacity that accommodates both paddlers and any gear they plan to bring.
- Choose kayaks made from durable materials that can withstand rough water and rocks.
- Consider the length and width of the kayak, as these factors can affect stability and maneuverability.
- Look for kayaks with adjustable seating, footrests, and backrests to ensure comfortable paddling for both users.
- Always wear life jackets or personal flotation devices and ensure that the kayak has proper safety equipment, such as paddles and navigation lights if paddling in low light conditions.
- Check local regulations and weather conditions before setting out on the water.
- Consider taking a kayaking safety course to learn basic paddling techniques and how to handle emergency situations.
References:
- US Coast Guard Boating Safety: https://www.uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/kayaks-canoes-and-other-paddlecraft
- National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/articles/tandem-kayaking.htm
- American Canoe Association: https://www.americancanoe.org/page/TandemKayaking
- REI Co-op: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/tandem-kayaking.html
- American Boating Association: https://www.americanboating.org/tandem-kayaking-tips-for-paddling-with-a-partner/
What is a Tandem Kayak?
Let’s talk about tandem kayaks, what they are, and some of their features.
A tandem kayak is a type of kayak that fits two paddlers, and some of them even have an extra section that can help you fit in another partner.
They are larger than solo kayaks and are much harder to turn, but much easier to paddle as they are propelled by the energy of both kayakers.
Why Choose a Tandem Kayak?
You might be wondering why you should choose a tandem kayak over a solo kayak. Well, there are both pros and cons to consider.
Advantages:
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Perfect for Families: Tandem kayaks are perfect for families. You can easily fit a small family inside one and get paddling.
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Easier to Paddle: They are much easier to paddle than solo kayaks as there are two paddlers working together.
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Opportunity for Breaks: Having two paddlers gives one person the opportunity to rest alternately. Kayaking all day can be tiresome work, but it’s fun when there are two paddlers on board!
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More Fun: It’s always more fun to socialize and kayak with a partner on board. You get to have a chance to socialize and have more fun.
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Sufficient Space: Being larger, tandem kayaks have enough space to store all of your gear and equipment. They have a capacity to store 1.5 times more gear and equipment than solo kayaks.
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Good for Emergencies: In case of an emergency, it’s better to have a helping hand by your side. Two kayakers can get out of an emergency situation more easily than a single person.
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Bring Your Dog: Tandem kayaks are perfect for dog lovers as you can take your furry friend to still water and enjoy the experience together.
Disadvantages:
Let’s talk about some of the drawbacks of owning a tandem kayak.
- Transport and Storage: Being a larger kayak, it can be difficult to transport and store. You need to have a proper storage space and plan for its transportation. They are also heavier than solo kayaks.
- Less Space Compared to Two Solo Kayaks: Although tandem kayaks are spacious, they have less space than two solo kayaks combined. If you are considering buying a tandem kayak for space instead of buying two solo kayaks, you should think again!
- Mismatched Paddling: One kayaker may want to paddle slower while the other wants to go faster, causing mismatched paddling.
Wrapping Up:
I’ve tried to cover all the features of tandem kayaks for everyone, from beginners to experts, and for various budgets. You can find a wide range of tandem kayaks available.
It’s up to you which one you choose, and our buyer’s guide can help you make an informed decision.
