Are you ready to take your friend or partner out on the water for a fun day of kayaking? You’re going to need a tandem kayak for the trip, and we have a selection of the top models in this review.
Inflatable Tandem kayaks offer you a way to enjoy the natural wonderment around you with someone else by your side – or behind you in this case.
Tandem kayaks come in various designs to suit the environment, conditions, and your needs. From touring to fishing, there’s a tandem kayak for any activity on the lake or river. Let’s unpack the best tandem kayaks for your aquatic adventure.
Contents
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Tandem Kayak – Driftsun Voyager
The Driftsun Voyager wins our award for the best tandem kayak on the market., This model comes with everything you need to enjoy a cruise down the river or a paddle out on the lake. This 10′ boat offers comfortable seating and a tri-chamber construction with durable 840D Oxford nylon for puncture resistance. - Best Premium Tandem Kayak – Advanced Elements
This tandem kayak offers you superior construction, with aluminum ribbing and premium materials in its tri-hull design. You get a choice of three top deck setups and the option of single or tandem use. It’s one of the few tandem kayaks suitable for the open ocean. The Advanced elements kayak brings you the best premium model in this review, and it’s a must-have for serious kayaking enthusiasts. - Best Budget Tandem Kayak – Intex Explorer K2
The Intex Explorer K2 brings you the most affordable inflatable tandem kayak in this review. You get an outstanding design featuring high-quality materials, a tri-chamber design with 1000D materials, and a reinforced Tarpaulin floor with I-beam for stability and better tracking. It’s the best-entry level kayak, and the price tag offers you exceptional value for money.
Read our full review of the Intex K2 here.
Inflatable Tandem Kayaks Reviews
Best Overall Tandem Kayak – Driftsun Voyager
The Driftsun Voyager is our choice for the best overall tandem kayak available. This model has all the features you need to enjoy a day out on the lake or river. The Voyager comes with 840D Oxford nylon pontoons and a tarpaulin hull for rugged durability against submerged objects.
You get superior puncture resistance, and if you do get a snag that causes a puncture, there’s no sinking risk, thanks to the multi-chamber design. The exterior of the pontoons features paddle clips for hands-free relaxation on the water and splash protectors on the front and rear of the boat to keep you dry.
The bow and stern of the kayak feature an oversized carry handle, making carrying, launching, and retrieving the boat a breeze. The bow and stern also feature storage areas with bungee cord straps for securing your gear.
- INFLATES QUICKLY: The Driftsun Voyager Tandem Kayak inflates to a full size kayak (10ft. x 35” x 16”) in less than 5 minutes with the included deluxe high flow double action hand pump. Go from garage, to trunk, to water in no time!
- COMPACT & MANEUVERABLE: When deflated for transport this portable kayak measures only 26”(L) x 16”(W) x 8”(H) and fits nicely into the included carry bag. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle by one person, weighing in at only 27 lbs.
- DURABLE DESIGN: Heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin bottom provides durable protection from punctures, making the Driftsun inflatable tandem kayak the prefect companion for all your adventures. Double Threaded Boston valves are guaranteed not to leak, and tough 840D coated nylon oxford fabric top cover is rip and tear resistant.
- SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE: Rocker profile and pointed nose entry (bow) delivers excellent performance in both calm and choppy waters on this folding kayak. Removable deep fin provides responsive tracking, rear drain plug for easy draining/cleaning and High Quality EVA padded seats offer High-back support for hours of comfortable cruising.
- EVERYTHING INCLUDED! – Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak, (2) Adjustable EVA padded seats, (2) Aluminum kayak paddles with ergonomic grip handles, Deluxe double action hand pump, Rear tracking fin, and Travel bag.
Inside the kayak, you have a self-bailing floor with drain plugs and Boston valves for rapid inflation, with the two-way hand pump included with the package. The EVA seats are plush and comfortable, reducing rider fatigue when paddling on long trips, and there are adjustable footpegs to suit any rider’s height.
This 10′ kayak is a great choice for the lake or slow-moving rivers, and you get two collapsible paddles with ergonomic handgrips included with your purchase. The Voyager comes with corrosion-resistant hardware throughout the boat and a 1-year warranty from the manufacturer.
The boat weighs 27-lbs when inflated, carrying loads of up to 400-lbs. You get excellent paddling control in rougher water conditions thanks to the removable skeg on the hull and the decent rocker on the bow and stern. There are six D-rings on the sides of the boat for attaching your gear. Overall, the Driftsun Voyager brings you a great package for paddling around lakes and rivers.
What We Liked
- Durable Tarpaulin hull.
- Collapsible paddles with ergonomic grips.
- Multi-chamber design.
- EVA padded seats with high-back support.
- Easy to inflate and deflate.
- Accessory kit included.
Best Premium Tandem Kayak – Advanced Elements
Kayaking enthusiasts that want one boat for everything will love this model from Advanced Elements. Advanced elements offer you three configurations in one kayak. You have options for a standard open deck, a single deck, or a double-deck conversion for use on the ocean.
The double and single decks come as optional extras, but they are well worth considering, especially if you think you’re going to get out on the ocean for long trips or fishing expeditions. This boat measure 15′ in length, and you get a sturdy design, with plenty of rocker at the front of the boat and a narrow nose for cutting through waves and rough water conditions.
The Advanced Elements tandem kayak comes with a tri-layer hull and pontoon design, featuring the main air chamber encased in a separate tube cover. The outer layers offer excellent puncture resistance, and there’s no chance of sinking the kayak if you pierce the outer pontoon or the hull.
- Built-in aluminum ribs define the bow and stern and improves tracking
- Three layers of material for extreme puncture resistance.Folded size 35 X 21 X 12 inches. Max Weight-550 pounds. Weight-52 pounds
- Pre-assembled at the factory; simply unfold, inflate, and attach the seats
- High support, adjustable padded seats provide comfort for hours of paddling
- Three seat locations allow for paddling solo or tandem
The AdvancedFrame design of this kayak features a patented “BackBone” and high-pressure floor, bringing exceptional stability to the kayak. The aluminum frame won’t buckle, even under the roughest water conditions, and it keeps the boat lightweight for easy carry to and from the water.
The bow and stern come with aluminum ribs to ensure stability and improve tracking over standard inflatable models. While the boat might have a steeper price tag compared to other models, it’s easy to see where you’re spending the extra money with this kayak.
The exterior features drag handles on the front and rear, and there’s zipper storage in the bow, with bungee lines on the deck for additional wet gear storage. There’s an integrated pressure relief valve and drain valve on the self-bailing floor, and you get two comfortable, padded seats with adjustable backrests for reducing paddling fatigue.
The Advanced Elements kayak comes with a skeg tracking fin and reinforced bow and stern seams for the hull. After you finish your day at the lake, deflate and fold the kayak up into its convenient carry bag.
What We Liked
- Professional design.
- Suitable for all water conditions
- Advanced aluminum ribbing and frame.
- Three deck designs.
- Padded adjustable seats.
- Tri-hull design for puncture resistance.
Best Budget Tandem Kayak – Intex Explorer K2
For kayaking enthusiasts on a budget, you can’t beat the value you get with the Intex Explorer K2 inflatable kayak. This boat comes with all the features of top models and more. You get an attractive design with a bright yellow color for easy identification on misty mornings.
Read: Our full review of this 2 Person Kayak here.
This boat features construction with durable 1000D PVC and a tarpaulin hull for puncture resistance. This boat features a three-chamber design, so there is no risk of sinking the kayak if you pierce the outer chamber. The side of the pontoon comes with a large carry strap, and there are drag handles on the bow and stern for easy launching and retrieval.
The K2 comes with splash covers on the bow and stern, and the self-bailing floor drains away any water landing inside the boat. The floor also features an I-bean design, adding excellent stability to the kayak. With the detachable skeg fitted to the hull, you get exceptional tracking.
- EASY TRANSPORT – Lightweight and compact, this kayak is easy to assemble and, with the Boston valve, it inflates and deflates in minutes; paddles come apart and the pieces can be conveniently stored with the boat in the included carrying bag allowing you to take the fun of kayaking wherever you go
- READY FOR ADVENTURE – Explorer K2 Kayak is great for experiencing lakes and mild rivers with a friend, this kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling, with the bright yellow color and sporty graphics this makes the kayak highly visible in the water
- STABILITY – Made with rugged vinyl construction and built for performance, this sturdy kayak has an inflatable I-beam floor, a low-profile deck, and high-buoyancy side chambers for stability, comfort, and function; the removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement
- 2-PERSON CAPACITY – The Explorer K2 is a two person capacity kayak with a 400 pound maximum weight capacity. When fully inflated the kayak measures at 10.3 feet X 3 feet X 1.8 feet
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two inflatable seats with backrests, heavy-duty grab handles with grab lines, two quick-fill Bonston valves, high-output pump and one repair patch
The front and rear of the boat come with grab lines for easy docking. The boat’s interior features two large inflatable seats, offering full adjustment to rider height for comfortable paddling. The K2 features a full accessory kit, including a carry bag, a two-way air pump, and two collapsible paddles.
Thanks to the Boston valves, you get fast inflation of this 10′ boat in under ten minutes. The K2 comes with everything you need to enjoy a great day out on the lake. The kayak weighs 35-lbs when inflated and can accommodate loads up to 400-lbs.
This kayak is the best choice for anyone on a budget, and the level of design quality and functionality makes it a fantastic choice for recreational kayaking.
What We Liked
- Very affordable.
- Excellent design quality for the price.
- Durable pontoons and hull.
- Three chamber design eliminates sinking risk.
- Detachable skeg and I-beam floor for better tracking.
AquaGlide McKenzie
Kayaking enthusiasts looking for one of the best tandem models available will love the AquaGlide McKenzie. This model is the superior choice for people with a budget who want a boat they can use in all water conditions. This touring kayak is ideal for rivers, and it can handle up to Class III rapids with ease.
The AquaGlide McKenzie comes with a durable, rugged 1000D PVC material for the pontoons and a Tarpaulin hull for added puncture resistance when encountering submerged objects in the river or lake. You get reinforced carry handles on the sides, bow, and stern of the boat allowing for easy launching and retrieval from the water.
The kayak comes with a self-bailing floor featuring drain plugs to keep you dry. The floor also features an I-beam design for stability and better tracking, and the removable hull skeg also assists with keeping the boat on track in rough water conditions.
- The McKenzie 125 is a well-tracking, crossover kayak that provides stable and responsive one or two-person paddling in whitewater and flat-water conditions.
- Dimensions: 12’-2” (378 cm) L x 34.5” (87 cm) W. 13.5″ tube diameter.
- Capacity: 1 or 2-person | 600 lb. (272 kg) max weight.
- Best For: 1 or 2-person whitewater or recreational paddling.
The front and rear of the boat also feature a splash cover, complete with added storage areas and a bungee cord on each end for wet gear storage. The AquaGlide comes with Boston valves offering you rapid inflation of the 12.5′ boat in under 15-minutes. The interior features adjustable seats and backrests, providing comfort and reduced paddling fatigue.
You’ll find D-rings behind the rear seat for typing off your dock lines, and the sharp nose of the boat with elevated rocker make it ideal for navigating those Class III rapids without sinking the front.
Overall, you get a kayak designed for touring, and it’s a great choice for the waterways around the United States. It’s a bit pricey, but the quality is excellent. Your get collapsible paddles included with your purchase, but there is no carry bag or air pump included with this model.
What We Liked
- Professional design.
- Durable 1000D PVC materials and Tarpaulin hull.
- Spacious interior.
- Plenty of storage space.
- Ideal for touring Class II rapids.
Airhead Montana
This 12′ inflatable kayak is a great choice if you enjoy paddling on rivers and Class III rapids. The boat’s design features a steep rocker at the bow and stern for navigating rough water. The bright orange color allows for easy identification of the raft in low-light and misty conditions.
This boat features construction with durable 840D Oxford nylon and a protective coating to keep the sun’s UV rays from fading and weathering the material. You get a three-chamber design in the pontoons and hull, removing sinking risk if you pierce the outer chamber. The hull features reinforcement with tri-laminate materials.
The self-bailing floor comes with drain plugs and an I-beam design for a stable floor that won’t sag. As a result, you get excellent tracking in the water, and there are four removable skegs to improve directional control in rough water conditions out on the river or lake.
- Airhead Montana Travel kayaks are Inflatable kayaks that are perfect for camping, vacationing, exploring remote areas, and cruising yachts
- Designed for lakes and moderate white water, this two person inflatable kayak is lightweight, compact, and portable
- All 3 air chambers are completely enclosed by rugged 840-denier nylon with UV and water-resistant coatings
- Made with Neoprene elbow guards for comfort when paddling and a stretch net in the bow and 6 D-rings at bow and stern for securing gear
- Bright orange inflatable kayak for safety and visibility on the water
The boat’s interior features two comfortable, adjustable padded seats and backrests, with adjustable footrests. The bow and stern also feature bungee cords for tying down your gear. When inflated, the boat weighs 36-lbs and can support loads up to 500-lbs.
The bow and stern come with splash covers, and you get reinforced drag handles for easy launching and retrieval of the boat. There’s stainless steel hardware throughout the kayak, eliminating the chance of corrosion, and you get 12 D-rings, six on either side, for attaching your gear.
We like the comfortable neoprene pads on the sides of the pontoons to avoid friction scratches when paddling. Thanks to the fast-flow Boston valves, the boat inflates in under ten minutes. The only drawback is that this model doesn’t come with a carry bag, paddles, or a pump, adding to the costs.
What We Liked
- A professional design ideal for river rapids.
- Tri-hull design for sink resistance.
- Durable 840D Oxford nylon for puncture resistance.
- Neoprene comfort elbow pads.
- Low drag and superior tracking.
Sevylor Coleman Colorado
The Sevylor Colorado offers you the ultimate tandem fishing kayak available.
This boat features all the bells and whistles you need for your fishing trip. You get two integrated Berkley Quickset rod holders and four other rod holders positioned along the length of the pontoons. Keep your hands free for fishing with the paddle clips on either side and focus on your rod, not holding the paddle.
There are docking lines cleats on the bow and stern for dropping anchor and fittings for a Sevylor trolling motor for propelling the boat without the paddles. The carry handles on the sides make moving the boat from the car to the water effortless, with a total inflated weight of 37-lbs and load capacity of 500-lbs.
The green sides and hull add camouflage to the vessel, making it ideal for stealth fishing in the flats. The low draft and drag of the boat are suitable for reaching the flats and shallows without hanging up or damaging the hull.
- 18-gauge PVC Construction: Rugged and lake-use friendly
- 1000D Tarpaulin Bottom and 840D Nylon Cover: Provides durable puncture protection
- Multiple Air Chambers: Allows another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- High-Quality Inflatable Kayak: Ideal for fishing and lake adventures
- Adjustable Seats and Carry Handle: For comfort and easy transport
The pontoons feature construction from durable 18-gauge PVC and a 1000D Tarpaulin hull for superior puncture resistance. The Colorado comes with an 840D Oxford Nylon cover, featuring splash protection at the bow and stern. The pontoons feature a multi-chamber design offering you protection against sinking.
You get a self-bailing floor with drainage plugs and plenty of mesh pockets for additional storage on the sides. The Colorado comes with plush padded seats featuring adjustable backrests, and you get drag handles at the bow and stern.
You can inflate the kayak in under ten minutes, thanks to the double-threaded Boston valves. Overall, this fishing kayak is perfect for trips onto the lake or the river, and you’ll find it challenging to get a dedicated fishing kayak at this price point.
What We Liked
- The best option for a dedicated tandem fishing kayak.
- Integrated Berkley Quickset rod holders.
- Plenty of storage compartments on the sides.
- Compatible with a Sevylor trolling motor.
- Paddle holders on sides.
- Durable 1000D PVC and 840D Oxford nylon materials.
Intex Excursion Pro
Intex makes some of the best inflatable products around, and their attention to detail in their range of inflatable kayaks is impressive. The Excursion Pro is a great choice for a tandem kayak, offering excellent versatility. This model comes with a tough laminate 1000D laminate cover and a lightweight polyester core for superior snag and piercing resistance and no chance of sinking the boat if you get a puncture.
The high-pressure inflation and I-beam floor offer the boat an exceptional level of rigidity, and the self-bailing design with drain plugs keeps you dry. The pontoons come with bright orange color for easy identification in low light and misty conditions, and there’s a spring-loaded valve for fast inflation.
The Excursion comes with an adjustable mounting bracket for your GPS, swivel fishing rod holders, and fishfinder. There’s plenty of storage space in the bow and stern, with splash covers to keep you dry and grab lines for easy launching and retrieval of the kayak.
- SUPER-TOUGH – 3-ply laminate construction combined with SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior structural strength and unmatched resistance to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight, while allowing more pressure for rigidity
- STABILITY and MANEUVERABILITY – High-pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, with spring-loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation; the two removable skegs included allows for optimal manuverability in deep or shallow water
- STORAGE – Extra space in the bow and stern allows for storing any necessities for your adventure; stainless steel D-rings also allow the safety and ease of tying down dry bags and gear
- 2 PERSON CAPACITY – Inflated boat size is 12.7 feet x 3.1 feet x 1.6 feet with a weight capacity of 400 pounds which can be used solo or tandem; easily foldable to be put in the carry bag that allows for easy transportation
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two detachable fishing rod holders, one adjustable GoPro camera and mobile phone mount, high-output air pump and one repair patch
You get two rod-holders positioned on either side of the stern to keep your rods in place while paddling. The interior features two plush removable and adjustable bucket seats and you get two aluminum oars included with your purchase. The two removable seat-boosters let you elevate your riding position.
The floor also features two adjustable footrests for riders of all heights. You get corrosion-resistant stainless steel D-rings around the sides of the boat for storing your gear. The Excursion comes with a two-way rapid air pump, oars, a pressure gauge, and a carry bag for easy transport and storage.
When inflated, the boat measures 12.7′ in length, weighs 39-lbs, and can carry up to 400-lbs. The Excursion offers excellent tracking thanks to the shallow and deep water skegs included with your purchase.
What We Liked
- Ideal for cruising lakes or rivers.
- Suitable for up to Class II rapids.
- Splash covers with draglines included.
- Two rod-holders.
- Adjustable bucket seats.
- A mounting bar for GPS, electronics, and rod holders.
Intex K2 Challenger
We wrap up the review with another inflatable model from Intex. The Challenger is another example of a high-quality inflatable from this leading brand. The K2 Challenger is an ideal entry-level kayak for paddling around clam waters.
You get a heavy-duty PVC puncture-resistant vinyl design with two separate air chambers to mitigate sinking risk if you experience a puncture. The inflatable I-beam floor adds exceptional stability to the kayak, providing better tracking. The removable skeg in the hull also offers directional assistance for better boat tracking in rougher water conditions.
The K2 Challenger comes with a closed design and inflatable coaming around the cockpit to prevent water entry into the boat. There’s plenty of storage capacity in the bow and stern, and you get a cargo net in the front for your wet gear.
- ✔ SUPER-STRONG – SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior strength and durability, ensuring high impact and abrasion resistance
- ✔ LOW PROFILE DESIGN – The Challenger K2 has a streamlined low-profile design that is perfect for easy paddling in lakes and mild rivers
- ✔ COCKPIT SEATS – Built with removable and adjustable seats, the cockpit design is spacious and comfortable, providing plenty of room for your legs and gear
- ✔ REMOVABLE SKEG – Attached to the underside of the kayak, the removable skeg provides directional stability, making it easier to maintain a straight and steady course while paddling
- ✔ 2-PERSON CAPACITY – Inflated size is 11.6 feet x 2.6 feet x 1.3 feet with a weight capacity of 400 pounds and easily foldable to be put in the carry bag that allows for easy transportation
We like the grab lines on the front and rear of the kayak, allowing for easy carry, launch, and retrieval of the boat. The boat measure 11.5′ in length weighs 24-lbs, with a load capacity of 400-lbs. You get two collapsible paddles, a two-way air pump, and a carry bag included for compact storage and easy carry in the trunk of your car.
The Intex K2 Challenger is ideal for beginner kayakers who just want to have some fun out on the lake. You get easy handling and excellent float, with fast inflation and deflation times. If you experience a puncture, Intex includes a repair kit for quick and easy repairs to your kayak.
What We Liked
- An affordable entry-level tandem kayak for beginners.
- Two-chamber design for sinking resistance.
- Durable PVC materials for puncture resistance.
- Large cargo net offers wet storage.
- I-beam floor for rigid stability and better tracking.
- Paddles, pump and carry bag included.
Other Best Selling Options
- EASY TRANSPORT – Lightweight and compact, this kayak is easy to assemble and, with the Boston valve, it inflates and deflates in minutes; paddles come apart and the pieces can be conveniently stored with the boat in the included carrying bag allowing you to take the fun of kayaking wherever you go
- READY FOR ADVENTURE – Explorer K2 Kayak is great for experiencing lakes and mild rivers with a friend, this kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling, with the bright yellow color and sporty graphics this makes the kayak highly visible in the water
- STABILITY – Made with rugged vinyl construction and built for performance, this sturdy kayak has an inflatable I-beam floor, a low-profile deck, and high-buoyancy side chambers for stability, comfort, and function; the removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement
- 2-PERSON CAPACITY – The Explorer K2 is a two person capacity kayak with a 400 pound maximum weight capacity. When fully inflated the kayak measures at 10.3 feet X 3 feet X 1.8 feet
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two inflatable seats with backrests, heavy-duty grab handles with grab lines, two quick-fill Bonston valves, high-output pump and one repair patch
- SUPER-TOUGH – 3-ply laminate construction combined with SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior structural strength and unmatched resistance to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight, while allowing more pressure for rigidity
- STABILITY and MANEUVERABILITY – High-pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, with spring-loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation; the two removable skegs included allows for optimal manuverability in deep or shallow water
- STORAGE – Extra space in the bow and stern allows for storing any necessities for your adventure; stainless steel D-rings also allow the safety and ease of tying down dry bags and gear
- 2 PERSON CAPACITY – Inflated boat size is 12.7 feet x 3.1 feet x 1.6 feet with a weight capacity of 400 pounds which can be used solo or tandem; easily foldable to be put in the carry bag that allows for easy transportation
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two detachable fishing rod holders, one adjustable GoPro camera and mobile phone mount, high-output air pump and one repair patch
- INFLATABLE 2-PERSON KAYAK -The Coaster inflatable tandem kayak is designed for two riders and even an adventurous pup! This dog-friendly Kayak allows your furry companion to join in on the fun. It is incredibly stable, spacious, and comfortable, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable ride for all onboard. Just like with any water activity, it's essential for all riders to wear a properly fitted USCG approved personal floatation device when kayaking, and don't forget one for your furry friend too!
- IMPRESSIVE DURABILITY - Don't let the air-filled design fool you; this blow up kayak is lightweight yet incredibly durable! The Coaster two person kayak is solid and made to last, with robust 900-Denier puncture-resistant polyester fabric and a heavy-duty Tarpaulin hull. With a maximum weight capacity of an impressive 505 lbs, it offers exceptional durability and stability for all your adventures on the water.
- QUICK AND EASY TO ASSEMBLE - Setting up your kayak is a breeze. This tandem kayak is easily assembled in minutes—unroll, inflate the air chambers, add the fins, snap in the seats, and get to adventuring!
- PORTABLE AND COMPACT - Compact, lightweight, and easily portable, enabling you to enjoy the excitement of kayaking without the hassle of transporting it. Lightweight, weighing just 29 lbs, our portable kayak is easy to carry anywhere. It deflates to fit into an easy-to-carry bag for convenience. Dimensions - Inflated: 12’6 x 39” and Deflated: 29’’ x 17’’ x 13’’.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED - This ultimate go-with-the-flow inflatable kayak for adults includes a dual-action pump, paddles, removable fins, footrest and carry bag—everything you need to get out on the water!
Tandem Kayaks Buyer’s Guide
After reading through our reviews of the best tandem kayaks, it’s time to start narrowing down your choices. We put together this buyer’s guide to give you everything you need for assessing and choosing the right kayak for your needs.
Hard-Shell or Inflatable Kayaks?
We recommend going for an inflatable kayak over a traditional hard-shell model. You might think that the hard shell model is the better choice. After all, an inflatable is a puncture risk, right?
The reality is that a hard-shell model is just as much of a sinking risk as an inflatable, maybe even more so. If you crack the hull on your hard-shell kayak, water will enter the boat, and you’re going to have to start bailing.
In contrast, most inflatable models come with a dual or tri-chamber design. So, if you snag it on a rock or pierce it on submerged debris, you’ll only get through one of the chambers, preventing water from penetrating all three layers of the hull. As a result, inflatables are a much lower sinking risk than a hard-shell model.
Inflatables are also a lot lighter than hard-shell models. The average inflatable weight is around 30-lbs, while a hard-shell model can weigh 50-lbs or more. Finally, the inflatable is easy to deflate and fold away in its carry bag. With a hard-shell model, you’re going to have to tie it down to roof racks, and then there’s the issue of finding somewhere to store the boat.
Inflatables pack away into a compact size, and you can toss the carry bag into the trunk of a small car without any issues.
Easy Inflation
One of the drawbacks of owning an inflatable tandem kayak is that you need to inflate it every time you want to use it. We recommend looking for a model offering Boston valves for easy inflation.
With Boston valves and a two-way air pump, you can inflate the boat in ten minutes with minimal effort. We recommend using an electric air pump that plugs into your car’s 12-volt outlet for the best results.
Construction, Design, and Materials
When looking at an inflatable tandem kayak, it’s important to assess the materials used in the design. Most inflatables feature 1000D PVC or 840D Oxford nylon for the pontoons. Both materials are ideal for puncture resistance and durability. These materials also offer exceptional resistance against weathering and fading from the sun’s UV rays.
Look for kayaks with hulls featuring a tarpaulin material. Tarpaulin and Hypalon offer you a tough, rugged hull that’s resistant to piercing on submerged debris. This material gives you the hull the best protection against punctures while remaining lightweight.
Self-Bailing Floors
Inflatable tandem kayaks come with self-bailing floors. So, if water enters the boat from your paddling or rough water conditions, the self-bailing floor channels the water to drain plugs, keeping the inside of the boat dry.
Length and Weight
The length and the weight of the kayak also play a role in the agility and handling of the boat on the water. Typically, longer models offer you superior stability, but they have less handling than shorter kayaks.
Most tandem kayaks come in lengths ranging from 10-feet to 14-feet, depending on the boat’s functionality. Sea-faring kayaks are typically longer, allowing them to cut through the chop on the water. The shorter the kayak, the better the handling, and that’s important if you’re planning on traveling down rivers with rapids.
Seating and Footrests
Look for tandem kayaks offering you comfortable seating., When you’re out on the water, the seat plays a role in fatiguing you. If you’re doing a lot of paddling, a poor seat design wears out your lower back, causing you to adjust your seating position frequently. As a result, you end up with a sore, stiff back at the end of your trip, and that’s a great way to kill the excitement and enjoyment of the day.
Your seats should offer you backrest adjustment and height adjustment. Some models come with additional under-seat cushions that raise the seating position to better view the water when fishing.
Most inflatable kayaks also include footrests, usually nylon or ABS plastic construction. Look for adjustable footrests to match your rider’s height. Footrests let you brace yourself in the paddling position, making your strokes more effective.
Legroom
Choosing a kayak with enough legroom for two people is essential, especially if you’re tall. Look for models offering you adjustable seat positions up and down the length of the kayak.
Most models come with adjustable footrests that provide you with a comfortable, custom seating position and plenty of legroom.
Grab Handles and Lines
The kayak should come with grab handles or garb lines at the bow and stern. These lines help you launch and retrieve the boat from the water, and they also act as tie-offs for docking lines.
Accessories
Moist inflatable tandem kayaks come with options for accessories. If you’re into fishing, look for boats offering you quickset rod holders in the center of the kayak and paddle clips mounted on the sides to keep the paddles or oars out of the way when fishing.
Typically, fishing kayaks will come with two rod-holders positioned to the aft of the boat, behind the rear seat., These holders position the rods out and away from the kayak, so you don’t contact the rods while you’re paddling.
Other models may come with an accessory bar mounted behind the front seat. This bat allows you to attach your GPS, fishfinders, and quickset rod-holders. The boat should also come with a splash cover to prevent water from getting into the boat from the front and the rear in rough water conditions.
Some models come with an air pump, paddles, and a carry bag included with your purchase, and others require you to buy them separately. If you’re buying your equipment, be aware that it can add up to $100 to the cost of your kayak.
Load Capacity
The load capacity of the boat is a crucial indicator of its float capacity. Overloading your kayak is the biggest cause of capsizes out on the lake.
Most inflatable models come with a load capacity between 400-lbs and 600-lbs, depending on the design and volume of the pontoons.
Onboard Storage
Storage is at a premium on kayaks. They are long, thin boats, and most of them don’t come with loads of storage space. We recommend looking for models offering you webbing pockets in the sides of the pontoons for holding your gear.
Most models also come with a bungee cord webbing on the bow and stern, allowing you to tie down your gear. If you’re looking at a fishing kayak, make sure it has enough room for a cooler to store your catch.
Paddles and Oars – What’s the Difference?
Some tandem kayaks come with paddles, and some have oars. A paddle has a blade on either end of the shaft. It allows you to paddle on each side without the need to transferer the blade to either side of the boat. Oars are typically for fishing kayaks, and they feature a blade on the one side and a “T” on the other end.
Where Do I Store My Tandem Kayak?
Inflatable tandem kayaks are easy to fold up and store. Most models come with carrying bags, allowing for easy storage in the trunk of your car or the garage.
Safety Gear for Tandem Kayaking Adventures
PFDs
Safety is critical when you’re out on the water. While it might seem that paddling around the lake doesn’t present much of a safety risk, you never know what’s going to happen when you’re out on the water. Ensure you have a USGC-approved personal floatation device (PFD) on you at all times to prevent drowning.
Emergency Whistle
If you get into a dangerous situation, like losing your paddle on a fast-moving river, the emergency whistle gives you the lifeline you need to call for rescue. Most PFDs come with a whistle attached to the life jacket. You use three long blasts to signal for help.
GPS and Phone
Keep your GPS and phone onboard for effective navigation in areas where you have no prior experience navigating the waters. Use a waterproof pouch for your phone, and make sure you have a full charge before setting out for the day.
Flares and Smoke
When all else fails, and you’re stranded or lost, a signal flare helps to show rescue teams your position. Keep a flare in a dry bag, safely stowed away.
Tandem Kayaks FAQs
Q: How do you paddle a tandem kayak?
It’s a little more challenging to paddle a tandem kayak than a single. To get it right, the person sitting in the rear needs to follow the pace of the paddler in the front. If you fail to keep pace, you’re going to clash paddles. Typically, you’ll be dipping your blades into the water on the same side of the kayak. It might take a few minutes for you to synchronize your paddling efforts, but when you do, you’ll feel the boat start to glide forward without changing the tracking.
Q: Should the heavier person sit in the front or back of the tandem kayak?
The heavier of the two passengers should sit to the rear of the kayak. Having the weight in the back gives you better positioning over the hull skeg, allowing for improved tracking., Loading the heavier person in the front may cause the front of the kayak to dive underwater if you hit rapids. The person in the rear of the kayak is responsible for providing most of the paddling power and tracking of the boat. The person sitting in the front of the kayak sets the paddling pace and stroke.
Q: Can I paddle my tandem kayak solo?
Yes, you can paddle your tandem kayak solo if you don’t have anyone coming out with you for the day. Most models come with removable skegs on the hull, allowing for easy tracking without the need for an additional passenger to navigate the boat. The extra length might be more challenging to maneuver than a traditional single-seater, but you won’t have any issues handling calm waters on the lake. Make sure that you have a double-bladed paddle for easy paddling and maneuvering of the boat.
Q: How do I transport my kayak?
If you have an inflatable model, you’ll release the valves and bleed the air out from the kayak in a matter of minutes. Fold it up, pack it away in the dedicated travel bag, and store it in the trunk of your car. Most boats weigh less than 20-lbs when deflated and packed, so they are easy for a single person to carry.
When the kayak is inflated and ready for use, grab the drag handles on either end or the sides. Keep an eye on your partner, and carry to the edge of the lake or river for launching. Most inflatables weigh around 30-lbs when fully inflated and ready for use.
Best Tandem Kayaks – The Verdict
By now, you should have an idea of the right tandem kayak to suit your needs. However, we realize you; might be on the fence about choosing the right model for you. If that’s the case, why not go with one of our top picks?
- Best Overall Tandem Kayak – Driftsun Voyager
The Driftsun Voyager offers you the complete package for kayaking down the rivers and across lakes. It’s comfortable, easy to navigate, and comes with plenty of storage space. - Best Premium Tandem Kayak – Advanced Elements
This model is our top choice if you’re looking for a professional tandem kayak. You get exceptional stability and tracking thanks to the aluminum rib construction and tapered bow. Cut through the waves out on the ocean or enjoy a tour down the river rapids. - Best Budget Tandem Kayak – Intex Explorer K2
If you’re boating on a budget, Intex brings you an affordable tandem inflatable with all the features of models three or four times its price.
