Are you looking for a fun, recreational hobby you can share with your significant other? Perhaps a tandem kayak that can support two or three people would be a wonderful investment. Here at The Adventure Junkies, we can help you find the best tandem kayak for your needs.
Our goal is to provide outdoor enthusiasts with well-researched information on the best gear available. Whether you are new to kayaking in general or a seasoned solo kayaker looking to spend more quality time with the people you love, a tandem kayak can take you on adventures for years to come.
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FIND THE BEST TANDEM KAYAK
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TANDEM KAYAKS 101
5 THINGS TO CONSIDER TO FIND THE BEST TANDEM KAYAKS
1. WEIGHT
Tandem kayaks typically range anywhere from 75 to 100 lbs in weight. While you’ll have two or three people to help carry your kayak or take turns pulling it on a kayak cart, it’s important to consider how you plan to transport your kayak.
Hoisting a small vessel weighing 85 lbs above your head onto the roof of an SUV could prove very difficult. A better option is a kayak trailer, which can be towed by (almost) any vehicle with a hitch. Consider how much weight you’re realistically wiling and able to carry and transport.
2. LENGTH
Most tandem kayaks are between 10 and 20 feet of length. Your physical strength and mode of transportation will once again determine the length you are able to handle.
In addition, longer kayaks displace more water and are therefore more stable, but are subsequently more difficult to maneuver. Short kayaks, while easy to maneuver through tight spaces, can be prone to tipping over. Read more on choosing the best kayak length.
3. COMFORT
Kayaks aren’t always the most comfortable to sit in for long periods of time, but some are definitely better than others. To find a comfortable tandem kayak, look for ample leg room and sturdy, cushioned seats.
The flexibility of a snap-in middle seat can accommodate one child, or if not utilized, free up space needed to enjoy kayaking with your dog, or simply more leg room.
If you enjoy sunrise paddling sessions, look for beverage holders for your morning cup of joe. Should you find your dream boat but are unhappy with the seat, replacements are always available.
4. STORAGE
Do you anticipate taking a mobile phone or digital camera on the water with you? Watertight, dry storage compartments can provide you with peace of mind, allowing you to communicate with the mainland if necessary. It will also eliminate your anxiety over losing hundreds of dollars should your kayak tip over.
Dry bags are always another option if the kayak you choose lacks adequate storage. Bungee cords, criss-crossing the top of the kayak can hold shoes, jackets or other non-electronic items. This is usually enough for minimalist kayakers.
5. WARRANTY
Many kayak manufacturers only protect against manufacturer defects with limited warranties. As with all moderate to large purchases, look for the longest warranty you can find.
Photo by http://ift.tt/2oT5ZdM
TANDEM KAYAK REVIEWS
1. BEST ALL AROUND TANDEM KAYAKS
OLD TOWN DIRIGO
BEST FOR: Cruising with family
WEIGHT: 72.0 lbs (32.7 kg)
LENGTH: 15’3″ (4.7 m)
COMFORT: Moderately comfortable
STORAGE: Plentiful
WARRANTY: Limited Lifetime
PROS: Cruises long distances with less effort, convertible to solo paddle, removable, snap-in child seat, adjustable Glide Track footbrace system, retractable carry handles, paddle holders
CONS: Price
OCEAN KAYAK MALIBU TWO XL
BEST FOR: All around kayaking
WEIGHT: 68.0 lbs (30.8 kg)
LENGTH: 13’4″ (4.1 m)
COMFORT: Moderately comfortable
STORAGE: Minimal
WARRANTY: 90 day limited
PROS: Ample rocker and deep keel for tracking straight, convertible to solo paddle, middle seat for child or pet, adjustable padded seats, bow/stern bungee deck rigging, bottom skid plate, accessory eyelets, drain plug, paddle keepers
CONS: Lacks adequate storage
ADVANCED ELEMENTS ADVANCED FRAME
BEST FOR: All around kayaking
WEIGHT: 68.0 lbs (30.8 kg)
LENGTH: 13’4″ (4.1 m)
COMFORT: Moderately comfortable
STORAGE: Minimal
WARRANTY: 90 day limited
PROS: Ample rocker and deep keel for tracking straight, convertible to solo paddle, middle seat for child or pet, adjustable padded seats, bow/stern bungee deck rigging, bottom skid plate, accessory eyelets, drain plug, paddle keepers
CONS: Lacks adequate storage
2. BEST TANDEM KAYAKS FOR SPEED
EDDYLINE WHISPER
BEST FOR: Long day trips
WEIGHT: 73.0 lbs (33.1 kg)
LENGTH: 18′ (5.5 m)
COMFORT: Very comfortable
STORAGE: Plentiful
WARRANTY: 3 year limited
PROS: Infinity seat and backrest, foot-controlled rudders, adjustable foot pegs, front/rear watertight bulkheads and hatches add storage and flotation, bow/stern bungee rigging, 600 lb weight capacity
CONS: Price, fixed seats
DELTA KAYAKS 20
BEST FOR: Multi-day touring
WEIGHT: 80.0 lbs (36.3 kg)
LENGTH: 18’6″ (5.6 m)
COMFORT: Very comfortable
STORAGE: Plentiful
WARRANTY: 3 year limited
PROS: Stable, maneuverable, hardshell hatch covers, multi-position neoprene-padded seat and adjustable backband, neoprene padding on thigh bracing for comfort and control, cockpit-adjustable foot braces, bow/stern bungee deck rigging, rubber handles
CONS: Price, weight
3. BEST TANDEM KAYAKS FOR FISHING
LIFETIME SPORT FISHER
Check out the latest price on:
Amazon
BEST FOR: Fishing with children
WEIGHT: 65.0 lbs (29.5 kg)
LENGTH: 10′ (3.0 m)
COMFORT: Moderately comfortable
STORAGE: Plentiful; 6′ storage hatch
WARRANTY: 5 year limited
PROS: Seats up to 3 people, ultra stable for standing, tracks well, multiple footrest positions, includes 2 double-sided paddles, paddle clips, 2 padded backrests, 3 fishing pole holders, 6’ storage hatch
CONS: Lacks rudder
OLD TOWN TWIN HERON ANGLER
BEST FOR: Couples who fish
WEIGHT: 62.0 lbs (28.1 kg)
LENGTH: 13’6″ (4.1 m)
COMFORT: Moderately comfortable
STORAGE: Minimal
WARRANTY: Limited lifetime
PROS: Adjustable Comfort Flex seat with padding, removable front seat, Auto Trim hull for easy solo paddling, Support Track foot brace system, comfortable carrying handles, cup holders, six rod mount receivers, two Cannon rod holders, paddle holders, rear bungee
CONS: Lacks adequate storage
USEFUL UH-TK181
BEST FOR: Fishing gear storage
WEIGHT: 68.0 lbs (30.8 kg)
LENGTH: 12’10” (3.9 m)
COMFORT: Moderately comfortable
STORAGE: Plentiful
WARRANTY: 1 year limited
PROS: Difficult to tip over, convertible to solo paddle, includes two aluminum paddles, two seats with rear storage pouches, rear cargo storage area, bungee rigging, 4 carry handles, 3 bungee paddle parks, 2 paddle rests, 4 flush mount and 3 adjustable rod holders
CONS: Not quite stable enough to stand on
4. BEST BUDGET TANDEM KAYAKS
INTEX EXPLORER K2
Check out the latest price on:
Amazon
BEST FOR: Budget day trips
WEIGHT: 31.0 lbs (14.1 kg)
LENGTH: 10’3″ (3.7 m)
COMFORT: Very comfortable
STORAGE: None
WARRANTY: 90 day limited
PROS: Inexpensive, heavy duty puncture resistant vinyl, 2 separate air chambers, Boston valves for quick inflation and deflation, pump and 2 oars included, inflatable I-beam for floor rigidity, repair kit
CONS: Many users reported skeg falling out and getting lost
LIFETIME MANTA
Check out the latest price on:
Amazon
BEST FOR: Ocean kayaking on a budget
WEIGHT: 65.0 lbs (29.5 kg)
LENGTH: 10′ (3.0 m)
COMFORT: Somewhat uncomfortable; lacks seat bottom
STORAGE: None
WARRANTY: 5 year limited
PROS: Designed for single or tandem use, includes soft backrests and 2 double sided paddles, lightweight, very stable, tracks well, difficult to tip over, drain holes, multiple foot rests
CONS: Lacks storage, not designed for comfort
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