The 5 Best Kayak Tandems Of 2022

Traveling with a buddy is a nice thing. Even if you are a soloist, you will still find the joy of having a company, especially if that person is close to you!

When it comes to kayaking, such a pleasure is achievable through the use of the best tandem kayak. Just like what its name suggests, this particular kayak allows two people to ride and paddle on it. It has a sufficient construction that regulates its weight against a heavy load. They don't sink to the point where the scupper holes and plugs would be under the water.

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Of course, I had tried a tandem kayak several times in the past. I am not saying that I am an expert when it comes to them. However, I know a thing or two about kayaks. Furthermore, I always keep watch of the finest kayak units out there.

If you are looking for a great tandem kayak for your next water adventure, I do suggest that you check out these top-rated options in the market today. They have reliable designs and ergonomics that can help improve the convenience of you and your partner.

Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak

Of course, I will always feature the most exceptional right from the get-go. And there's only one kayak that comes into my mind, and that's the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak. This kayak features durability and rigidness. It can carry multiple loads without losing its balance, buoyancy, and control. It allows a person or a pet to sit with you while you are paddling across rivers and lakes. It can support both solo and tandem paddling. Furthermore, it also capable of tandem paddling while you are with your kid or pet.

The seats of this kayak are exceptionally comfortable. It doesn't hurt your body even if you sit there on extended periods. Moreover, these seats have a four-way adjustment. You will be able to find a custom fit so that you can paddle steadily. The seats also have molded seats so that you won't slip from them. Meanwhile, there are foot wells integrated on the cockpit of the boat which enables center-seated users to position their feet conveniently while they are paddling.

Pros

  • Maximum capacity of 425 pounds
  • Can support up to three users (one being a child or a pet)
  • Features comfortable seat alignment and positioning
  • Slip-resistant seats ensure stability while you are paddling
  • Comes with skid plates and molded-in handles.

Cons

  • No noticeable drawbacks.
SUNDOLPHIN Sun Dolphin Bali 13.5-Foot Tandem Kayak

The Bali of Sun Dolphin is definitely an excellent choice for tandem kayaks. I can guarantee that this kayak features exceptional balance and flexibility. It can steer well at decent speeds, which is quite great for kayakers who are looking for some thrill. Just like the first kayak, Bali is capable of accommodating up to three people. However, it can still be operated by a single person. If you are going to paddle alone, you can move the rear seat to the center so that you can cruise better. For three-person applications, the non-paddler can still sit in the middle.

The seats installed on this kayak are both adjustable and comfortable. The back support is elevated to the optimal height. The foot braces can be reconfigured so that you can have better positioning. All of the carry handles have been positioned strategically to ensure that you can transport this boat quickly. Notably, the boat has a self-bailing capability, which is entirely necessary especially if the boat is loaded with two or more people. Also, the kayak features three covered storage compartment. It also comes with a shock cord deck rigging.

Pros

  • Highly adjustable seats and foot braces
  • Impressive buoyancy even while containing a heavy load
  • Features a balanced design for better paddling
  • Can accommodate up to three people
  • Comes with various storage compartments.

Cons

  • Only one compartment has a cover.
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak

Not all tandem kayaks have to be twice or thrice the price of standard kayaks. There are still entry-level options that you can try out there. One of them is the Intex Challenger K2 Kayak. Unlike the first two tandem kayaks that I have featured here, this one features a clear sporty aesthetics. It is really designed to appeal to those paddlers who are seeking the thrill of the waters! Of course, such appearance enables the boat to be visible in the water. It comes with a streamlined construction so that its users can paddle to it conveniently.

This tandem kayak comes with two 86 inches paddles made from lightweight industrial-grade aluminum. They are not too painful in the hands even if you grip them tightly. The paddles don't cause blisters also if you row fast. Furthermore, the boat has a proprietary Intex pump so that you can inflate and deflate it quickly. Even if it is an inflatable kayak, there's a guarantee that it can survive tough terrains. The kayak is crafted from rugged vinyl that cannot be punctured by ordinary means. It is resistant to wearing effects of UV rays. I can say that this boat is made for long-term use because of its exceptional durability.

Pros

  • Portable construction; easy to transport
  • Comes with a high-output pump for quick deflation and inflation
  • Highly rugged construction for tough kayaking applications
  • Impressive visibility in the water
  • Features an emergency patch kit.

Cons

  • Cannot support heavy loads; strictly for two people alone.
Old Town Twin Heron Angler Tandem Kayak

Anyone who is looking for the most outstanding tandem kayaks should check out the Old Town Twin Heron Angler Tandem Kayak. It has a unique construction that makes it stand out in the market. It comes with an auto trim hull that ensures its bow from raising whenever a person is sitting on its stern seat. As a result, you can gain better stability while you are riding on this kayak. You can also detach its front seat so that you can use it as a storage for your fishing gears like a fish finder. If not, let your kids or dogs have that spot!

Meanwhile, the proprietary Comfort Flex seat of the Old Town guarantees that there's a supportive panel that supports your back while you are seated. This panel is padded, by the way, which maximizes the comfort you will while paddling. There's also a glide track foot brace system that secures the stability of your feet while you are cruising even rough and challenging waters. The overall weight capacity of this kayak is approximately 500 pounds. Despite carrying a heavy load, the boat can maintain exceptional buoyancy, which is something I do love.

Pros

  • Possesses extreme durability
  • Can sustain efficient buoyancy even against heavy loads
  • Fairs well even with rough waters
  • Provides paddlers with impressive maneuvering capability
  • Ideal for fishing and hunting applications.

Cons

  • No noticeable drawbacks.
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak

If you are looking for an exceptional inflatable tandem kayak, it is a must that you should check the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak. By far, it is the most intuitive tandem kayak that I have ever tried. It can be transported easily and can be deflated and inflated quickly. This boat has an integrated aluminum rib that ensures that the stern and bow are well defined. Because of this design, the tracking of the kayak is improved. It has a maximum weight capacity of 550 pounds, which is more than enough to make you and your partner paddler safe.

This kayak is crafted from three layers of different materials. Because of this construction, the boat is capable of handling pressure and damages. It can resist heavy and forceful punctures, too. I can say that this kayak is sturdier than the Intex Challenger. However, take into account that this inflatable kayak is 52 pounds. Two people are required to carry this. All of the parts have been pre-assembled already. You need to unfold the kayak and inflate, and you are already good to go. Meanwhile, the seats have to be attached separately every time you use this kayak.

Pros

  • Seats can be positioned into three different locations for solo and tandem kayaking
  • Padded seats have elevated panels for sufficient back support
  • Surprisingly rugged construction
  • Maximum weight capacity of 550 pounds
  • Pre-assembled parts for easier use.

Cons

  • Cannot be carried by a single person alone because of its weight
  • Difficult to dry.

Best Tandem Kayak Buying Guide

Best Tandem Kayak Buying Guide

It is not all the time you are going to buy a kayak. Therefore, it is necessary that you can pick the right one from the start. Kayaks, if you are still new, still comes with a price. As you have seen in the list that I have listed above, most of the top tier kayaks out there don't come cheap.

Fortunately, there are specific guidelines that can help you decide which kayak to get. All kayaks in the market today deserve to be tried in the open. However, if you want the best from the start, you should be wary about the overall quality of the boat.

In this part, I will teach you some of the basics that can help you get the ideal tandem kayak for your intended application.

Material

One of the most critical aspects of choosing a kayak is the material. Different kayaks are made from different materials. Some of these are durable while others may not be able to handle tough situations.

The overall performance of the tandem kayak is significantly affected by how it was made. Durability, ease of transport, and storage can be influenced by the type by the material that has been used in the construction of the kayak.

Polyethylene

Rotomolded kayaks, or polyethylene kayaks, are among the staple materials that are being used in the manufacturing of kayaks. It is plastic, but it is more durable than the conventional plastics that are present in our homes. Polyethylene is powdered and poured to a metal mold that has a shape of the kayak.

Take into account that polyethylene is resilient and durable despite being a cheap option. Most of the time, they are touted as "Tupperware kayaks" because of their rigidness and user-friendly price. Even in minimal maintenance, polyethylene boats are still not prone to damages. However, make sure that you don't expose them to extreme heat because of their quality degrades.

Despite their durability, a polyethylene kayak is still susceptible to drag if they are regularly struck by pebbles and rocks. Furthermore, they are heavier than other types of materials, too. Hence, you should expect that polyethylene tandem kayaks are heavy and bulky.

Composite

The most proficient tandem kayaks, and any other types of kayaks are crafted from composite material. When I say that it is a composite material, it could be graphite, aramid, carbon fiber or a combination of them. These kayaks are often made by layering these materials and putting them into a mold.

They have a more intricate construction than polyethylene kayaks. Therefore, you can expect that they have better performance and ergonomics than their counterparts. You can expect them to be durable and rugged without compromising their weight.

It is noted that these composite kayaks are made for professionals. However, anyone can freely get them as long as they are willing to pay the price. These kayaks are notably stiff and swift, which makes them great for racing. I can say that these kayaks are quite responsive, too. If there are scratches, you can easily repair them.

Inflatable

Inflatable kayaks are a great choice for those who don't want to lift or transport heavy kayaks. After all, you are required to have a roof rack or some special methods so that you can carry hard-shell boats.

Most of the inflatable kayaks are crafted from poly-based fabric that ensures their rigidity and shape. However, a lot of people tend to ignore them because they have this notion that they are just toys. Fortunately, that's not the case anymore when it comes to modern inflatable kayaks.

Just like what I have listed here, these inflatable kayaks are already durable and resistant against puncture. Furthermore, they are compact, light, and doesn't have any problems when it comes to transport and storage.


The Shape of the Hull

The shape of the hull also matters when choosing a kayak. For instance, planing or flat hulls are the most common out there. They feature the most stable because of their full and flat designs. They can give you and you co-paddler a convenient ride when the conditions are stable. You can also maneuver them easily. For recreational and fishing purposes, they are a great use.

Kayaks that have a rounded hull are often seen with round edges. Their appearance usually resembles a torpedo. This particular hull design has an impressive track because they can resist water and current. Take into account that they don't possess stability when you cruise them in calm conditions. You should use them if you want to paddle on rough rivers.


Weight Capacity

It is also important to consider the overall capacity of the hull. Technically, this refers to the ability of the boat to stay afloat in a given weight. Most of the kayaks out there have different weight capacity, so you need to make sure that you know the very specification that you need.

Since we are talking about tandem kayaks, it is best to consider the people who will ride the kayak. Make sure if the capacity is sufficient enough to carry your gears and other amenities. In fact, some kayaks have extra space for dogs and children!

Take note that the heavier the kayak, the harder it is to paddle and control. Therefore, your coordination between your partner or co-paddler matters here.

Conclusion

Having the best tandem kayak is great for people who want to go on a watery adventure with their partner and close friends. It is also an excellent amenity for couples with kids or pet. This particular kayak is meant for recreation, while in some cases, it can be used to fill your need for a thrill. Either way, make sure that the tandem kayak you get has the same qualities as the one that I have listed here. If you don't want to do too much searching, choose any of my recommended kayaks.

That's it for now. If you have questions or suggestions, feel free to drop them in the comment section.

Now that you have acquired a piece of new knowledge about kayaking, I hope that you can do more in the water. Of course, let me emphasize that the right kayak will be able to change the way you can traverse the water and enjoy your time there. If you want to know the beginner's kayak, kayak for kids, lake kayaks, river kayaks, ocean kayaks, touring kayaks, recreational kayaks, kayak for dogs, inflatable kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks, pedal kayaks, and cost-efficient kayaks, I have them listed in this blog. Check out all the types of kayaks here and see what the market can offer to you.

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