Best Inflatable Tandem Kayaks for Adventurous Paddlers 2023
Kayaking is a popular outdoor activity that can be enjoyed alone or with a partner. Tandem kayaks, in particular, are great for those who want to share the experience with someone else.
However, transporting and storing a hardshell tandem kayak can be a challenge. This is where inflatable tandem kayaks come in.
Inflatable tandem kayaks are a great option for those who want the convenience of a portable kayak without sacrificing stability or performance. They are made from durable materials that can withstand punctures and abrasions, and they can be easily inflated and deflated for storage and transportation.
When looking for the best inflatable tandem kayak, it’s important to consider factors such as weight capacity, durability, and ease of use. You’ll also want to think about the type of water you’ll be kayaking in and whether you’ll be using the kayak for recreational or more adventurous purposes.
After researching and testing several inflatable tandem kayaks, we’ve identified the ones that offer the best combination of performance, durability, and ease of use. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, these kayaks will provide a fun and enjoyable experience on the water.
Best Inflatable Tandem Kayaks
Looking for an exciting way to explore the great outdoors with a partner or friend? Inflatable tandem kayaks are a fantastic option for those who want to enjoy the water together without sacrificing portability and ease of use.
Our team of experts has spent countless hours researching and testing the top inflatable tandem kayaks on the market to bring you our list of the best options available. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, we’re confident that our roundup has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for the best inflatable tandem kayaks, the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Set is definitely worth considering.
Pros
The 3-ply laminate construction and enhanced molecular formulation PVC make it super tough and resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, and sunlight.
The high-pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, and the two removable skegs included allow for optimal maneuverability in deep or shallow water.
The extra space in the bow and stern allows for storing any necessities for your adventure, and the stainless steel D-rings also allow the safety and ease of tying down dry bags and gear.
Cons
The seats are a pain to inflate, and the chairs are not very comfortable.
The oars seem flimsy and may not be suitable for serious kayaking.
It takes a while to set up.
We recently purchased the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Set and have used it several times. The kayak is well-packaged and comes with two 86-inch aluminum oars, two detachable fishing rod holders, one adjustable GoPro camera and mobile phone mount, a high-output pump, and one repair patch.
The set is easy to set up, and the kayak inflates quickly. However, the seats are a pain to inflate, and the chairs are not very comfortable.
The kayak is stable and maneuverable, thanks to the high-pressure inflation and the two removable skegs included.
It also has extra space in the bow and stern, which is great for storing any necessities for your adventure. The stainless steel D-rings also allow the safety and ease of tying down dry bags and gear.
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Set is not perfect, though. The oars seem flimsy and may not be suitable for serious kayaking. It also takes a while to set up, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
Overall, we think the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Set is a great option for those looking for the best inflatable tandem kayaks. It’s tough, stable, and maneuverable, and it comes with everything you need to get started.
If you’re looking for a durable and easy-to-transport tandem kayak, the Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak is a great option.
Pros
Inflates quickly with the included deluxe high flow double action hand pump
Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle and transport
Durable construction with heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin bottom and tough 840D coated nylon oxford fabric top cover
Cons
Carrying case could be more durable
Pressure gauge may arrive broken
Some users find it difficult to maneuver in choppy waters
In our experience, the Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak is a great choice for casual kayakers who want a reliable and easy-to-transport tandem kayak. The included hand pump makes inflation quick and easy, and the compact design means it can fit in the trunk of most cars.
The durable construction held up well against punctures and rough handling, and the removable deep fin provided responsive tracking. However, some users found it difficult to maneuver in choppy waters, and the carrying case could be more durable.
Overall, we would recommend the Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-transport tandem kayak for casual use.
If you’re looking for a versatile inflatable kayak that can be paddled solo or tandem, the Advanced Elements AE1007-E AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite Inflatable Kayak is a great choice.
Pros
The kayak combines aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern with rigid drop-stitch technology in the floor for excellent paddling performance.
The open deck design can be converted to a closed deck kayak in seconds.
The upgraded lumbar seats provide comfort for hours of paddling.
Cons
The kayak can be difficult to center the dropstitch bottom underneath.
The pump adapters that come with the kayak don’t always fit properly.
The dual action hand pump can be strenuous to use.
We recently had the opportunity to take the Advanced Elements AE1007-E AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite Inflatable Kayak out on the water, and we were impressed with its performance.
The kayak tracks well and is easy to maneuver, and the upgraded lumbar seats make for a comfortable ride.
We appreciated the kayak’s versatility, as it can be paddled solo or tandem and can be converted from an open deck design to a closed deck kayak in seconds.
The kayak’s aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern and rigid drop-stitch technology in the floor provide excellent paddling performance that rivals that of a hard-shell kayak.
While we were generally pleased with the kayak’s performance, we did have some difficulty centering the dropstitch bottom underneath, and the pump adapters that came with the kayak didn’t always fit properly.
Additionally, using the dual action hand pump can be strenuous, so we recommend taking breaks when inflating the kayak.
Overall, we would recommend the Advanced Elements AE1007-E AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite Inflatable Kayak to anyone looking for a versatile and high-performing inflatable kayak.
If you are looking for a high-performance inflatable kayak for touring, the Sea Eagle RazorLite Inflatable Kayak is a great option for intermediate and above paddlers.
Pros
The kayak is lightweight, making it easy for two adults to handle and transport.
The Sea Eagle RazorLite Kayak can be paddled up to 6 mph, thanks to its high-performance design and capabilities.
The kayak is safe and stable, even on open seas, with three separate air chambers and a drop-stitch floor that provides primary flotation and stability.
Cons
The kayak is best recommended for intermediate and above paddlers, so beginners may find it challenging to use.
The kayak is relatively expensive compared to other inflatable kayaks on the market.
The kayak does not come with a pump that has a pressure gauge, which can make it difficult to inflate to the correct pressure.
We recently had the chance to try out the Sea Eagle RazorLite Inflatable Kayak, and we were impressed by its performance.
The kayak is made with all-drop stitch construction, which provides the rigid feel and paddling speed of a traditional rigid kayak while still being lightweight and easy to transport.
One of the standout features of the Sea Eagle RazorLite Kayak is its patented rigid bow and stern molds, which are made out of engineering plastic for rigidity and strength. These molds help the kayak to cut through wind and waves, allowing for faster paddling speeds.
The kayak also has an open cockpit design, which makes entry and exit far easier for paddlers than a closed kayak. The open cockpit design also provides full use of the cockpit for the comfort of paddlers and storage of gear and equipment.
Overall, the Sea Eagle RazorLite Inflatable Kayak is a great option for intermediate and above paddlers who want a high-performance inflatable kayak for touring. While it may be more expensive than other inflatable kayaks on the market, its performance and stability make it worth the investment.
If you’re looking for an affordable inflatable tandem kayak, the Valwix 2 Person Inflatable Kayak is a good option.
Pros
The detachable canopy is a great feature for sunny days on the water.
The cargo net on the bow and stern is handy for storing extra items.
The kayak is easy to set up and inflate.
Cons
The canopy can be difficult to assemble.
The storage bag handles are not very sturdy.
The kayak may not be as durable as some higher-end models.
We recently had the chance to take the Valwix 2 Person Inflatable Kayak out for a spin and were pleasantly surprised by its performance. The kayak is stable and easy to maneuver, making it a good choice for casual flatwater paddling and even waves.
One of the standout features of this kayak is the detachable canopy. It’s easy to assemble and disassemble, and provides a nice bit of shade on sunny days. The cargo net on the bow and stern is also a handy feature for storing extra items.
Setting up the kayak is a breeze, thanks to the included hand pump. It can be inflated in just a few minutes, making it a good choice for novice and expert paddlers alike.
While there are some downsides to this kayak, such as the difficulty of assembling the canopy and the less-than-sturdy storage bag handles, overall we think it’s a good value for the price.
If you’re looking for an inflatable tandem kayak that won’t break the bank, the Valwix 2 Person Inflatable Kayak is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying an inflatable tandem kayak, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind as you search for the best product for your needs:
Size and Weight Capacity
As per Oregon River Rentals, one of the most important considerations when choosing an inflatable tandem kayak is its size and weight capacity. You’ll want to make sure that the kayak is large enough to comfortably fit two people, along with any gear you may be bringing along on your trip.
Additionally, check the weight capacity to ensure that it can safely support the weight of both paddlers and their gear.
Material and Durability
Another important factor to consider is the material and durability of the kayak. Look for a kayak made from high-quality materials that are puncture-resistant and durable enough to withstand the rigors of use.
Additionally, consider the thickness of the material, as thicker materials tend to be more durable and resistant to punctures.
Features and Accessories
Consider the features and accessories that come with the inflatable tandem kayak. Look for a kayak that comes with features such as adjustable seats, footrests, and paddle holders. Additionally, look for kayaks that come with accessories such as pumps, paddles, and carrying bags.
Portability and Storage
Finally, consider the portability and storage of the inflatable tandem kayak. Look for a kayak that is easy to inflate and deflate and comes with a carrying bag for easy transport. Additionally, consider the size of the kayak when deflated to ensure that it will fit easily into your storage space when not in use.
By keeping these factors in mind as you search for the best inflatable tandem kayak, you’ll be able to find a product that meets your needs and provides a comfortable and enjoyable paddling experience.
