Best Tandem Kayak Reviews

What is a 2 person kayak?

A 2 person kayak, or a tandem kayak, is simply a kayak with room for two paddlers. This variety of kayaks is a relatively modern spinoff since kayaks were designed only for a single person.

The word ‘tandem’ means paddling in-line – it implies a 2 man kayak where both paddlers are paddling synchronously.

These kayaks can comprise one of several different kinds of materials. Most of these vessels are rotomolded plastic, wood, folding, fiberglass, or inflatable.

INTEX Challenger Inflatable Kayak Series: Includes Deluxe 86in Kayak Paddles and High-Output Pump – SuperStrong PVC – Adjustable Seat with Backrest – Removable Skeg – Cargo Storage Net
Intex Explorer K2 2 Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Comfortable Backrest, Aluminum Oars, and High Output Air Pump for Fast Inflation, Yellow
Lifetime Manta Tandem Sit on Top Kayak with Paddles and Backrests, 10 Feet, Yellow
Lifetime Sport Fisher Single or Tandem Kayak, 10 Feet, Olive Green
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak, Envy, 12 Feet
INTEX Challenger Inflatable Kayak Series: Includes Deluxe 86in Kayak Paddles and High-Output Pump – SuperStrong PVC – Adjustable Seat with Backrest – Removable Skeg – Cargo Storage Net
Intex Explorer K2 2 Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Comfortable Backrest, Aluminum Oars, and High Output Air Pump for Fast Inflation, Yellow
Lifetime Manta Tandem Sit on Top Kayak with Paddles and Backrests, 10 Feet, Yellow
Lifetime Sport Fisher Single or Tandem Kayak, 10 Feet, Olive Green
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak, Envy, 12 Feet
INTEX Challenger Inflatable Kayak Series: Includes Deluxe 86in Kayak Paddles and High-Output Pump – SuperStrong PVC – Adjustable Seat with Backrest – Removable Skeg – Cargo Storage Net
INTEX Challenger Inflatable Kayak Series: Includes Deluxe 86in Kayak Paddles and High-Output Pump – SuperStrong PVC – Adjustable Seat with Backrest – Removable Skeg – Cargo Storage Net
Intex Explorer K2 2 Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Comfortable Backrest, Aluminum Oars, and High Output Air Pump for Fast Inflation, Yellow
Intex Explorer K2 2 Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Comfortable Backrest, Aluminum Oars, and High Output Air Pump for Fast Inflation, Yellow
Lifetime Manta Tandem Sit on Top Kayak with Paddles and Backrests, 10 Feet, Yellow
Lifetime Manta Tandem Sit on Top Kayak with Paddles and Backrests, 10 Feet, Yellow
Lifetime Sport Fisher Single or Tandem Kayak, 10 Feet, Olive Green
Lifetime Sport Fisher Single or Tandem Kayak, 10 Feet, Olive Green
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak, Envy, 12 Feet
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak, Envy, 12 Feet

These kayaks will have a single large cockpit or a couple of separate cockpits in case of a covered deck. It is preferable to have a large open cockpit with adjustable seat positions that allow for solo paddling or tandem paddling upon discretion; this would also allow more room for storing cargo.

Contents

Individual cockpits enable sprayskirts, but even if they aren’t present, the paddlers are kept dry, thanks to the enclosed deck.

Tandem kayaks have wider beams, requiring slightly longer paddles (to compensate for the extra width). In addition, they will move swifter in the water due to their longer waterlines (the length of the boat which is in contact with the water) and the fact that there are two pairs of arms paddling together instead of just a single one.

Get healthy and fit in a kayak

Note that it is essential that the kayakers work in tandem with these kayaks to avoid paddling in a manner that cancels their efforts. Usually, the stronger paddler takes the stern position, whereas the weaker paddler sits in the bow to set the paddling pace.

If required, the weaker paddler can change their length to keep up with the stronger paddler. If done correctly, the paddling teamwork will allow for quick traveling.

As a result of the weight and length rations of the tandem paddlers, these kayaks can occasionally become difficult to turn – this will also require a degree of teamwork.

To turn a tandem kayak, the kayakers must paddle on opposing sides and directions. As the paddler in the bow makes a forward stroke, the stern has to make a simultaneous backward stroke on the opposite side, i.e., creating a pivoted movement together. This can be tricky for first-timers who may want to include a rudder for navigation/course correction.

Tandem kayaking is ideal for developing a sense of companionship and teamwork between two people. It is often enjoyed by couples where both people share a passion for kayaking. In addition, some people use tandems to take their kids on boating expeditions or when they plan a water trip with someone without any kayaking experience.

Top Tandem Kayaks

Intex Challenger K2 Kayak

The Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak is excellent for exploring a river, pond, or lake you love. The 2 people-inflatable kayak has a streamlined design, and at a price of just $120.79, it is ideal for any beginner kayaking couple who wants to try the sport out together to see if they like it or not.

Thanks to its inflatable build and 34-pound weight, it can easily be handled and operated by newcomers.

Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Check Latest Price

Pros

  • Inflatable and lightweight for quick and easy handling
  • 30 gauge PVC vinyl composition makes it endure rougher waters as well as the elements
  • Included aluminum oars, backrest, front/back grab line, and cargo net
  • Optional directional skeg aids in navigation – particularly for people who are new to tandem kayaking and have difficulty in synchronized turns
  • A Double-quick hand pump lets you quickly inflate and deflate the kayak – ideal for longer trips where you’ll be changing camps several times
  • Extremely cheap at $120 – excellent for those who are unsure about kayaking in tandem and want to try it out
  • The middle seat can be removed to convert the inflatable tandem kayak into a one-person vessel for solo excursions
  • An additional air chamber is present for safety – it ensures that you remain afloat no matter what

Cons

  • The limited carry capacity of 350 pounds leaves little room for extra cargo.

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

The Intex Explorer K2 is a well-crafted two-person inflatable kayak with its paddles, double quick hand pump, and patch kit. You can easily fit it, along with the accessories, in a storage bag and, thanks to its lightweight, move it from your vehicle to the water. This tandem inflatable kayak’s construction focuses on relaxed water traversing. Hence, it performs well in lakes / mild rivers, but some users have even reported success in Class II and III water bodies!

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak Check Latest Price

Pros

  • Track great in all depths of water thanks to the removable skeg
  • Reinforced floor with an I-beam build
  • Able to sustain itself even in rough waters thanks to rugged construction
  • Adjustable seats let you personalize your kayaking experience
  • At around $180, it offers great value for the money, especially with the added accessories
  • The striking yellow color offers visibility in the water and is the reason why the US Coast Guard has rated it highly in terms of safety and reliability
  • You can paddle solo, but you’ll have to put some of the gear in the vacant front seat to balance it out
  • The kayak is stable enough to allow for a trip with your dog
  • It can be used for fishing since it rides flat on the water

Cons

  • Black-colored bottom absorbs heat from sunlight and can buckle. This isn’t a problem since no users have reported any loss in performance/reliability after buckling happened. Only the kayak won’t be able to lie flat on the ground anymore.

Lifetime Manta Tandem Kayak

The Lifetime Manta tandem kayak is a ten-foot-long, $600, 2-person kayak that can hold as many as three, i.e., two paddlers along with a child/pet, thanks to its weight carrying ability of 500 pounds.

It is meant for multi-purpose recreational kayaking and provides comfortable, balanced seating for tandem and solo or family adventures.

Lifetime Manta Tandem Kayak Check Latest Price

Pros

  • The two seats have padded backrests and are adjustable to maximize comfort throughout the kayaking trip.
  • To minimize foot cramping, this tandem sit-on-top kayak incorporates multiple footrest positions so paddlers of any size can use it.
  • With a hull constructed of high-density polyethylene plastic, it can withstand knocking by underwater objects and maintain its stability as it does so
  • The outer shell is UV protected for extra ruggedness, meaning it will survive exposure to the elements and maintain its shape and color even after a long period of use.
  • The hull is designed to provide excellent stability and tracking, which can be improved further by including a rudder at its bottom.
  • Interior foam provides further buoyancy, keeping it afloat even in loaded conditions.
  • A roomy cargo hold at the front of the boat lets you pack in many gear. In addition, elastic bungee cords provide holding ability for an extra item you need quick access to.
  • Thanks to scuppering holes running through the hull, the boat doesn’t require you to bail water from it, even in the roughest conditions

Cons

  • Although it describes itself as carrying 3 people, the third person has to be a child.

Lifetime Sport Fisher Kayak

It is described as ‘the ultimate fishing kayak,’ but its manufacturer has a claim to measure up to. But this sit-on-top tandem kayak, with its abundance of fishing-friendly features, proves its worth.

Costing a reasonable $520, this olive green 10-foot longboat is good enough for three people to sit in and allows for one of the most stable fishing experiences we’ve ever witnessed.

Lifetime Manta Tandem Kayak Check Latest Price

Pros

  • The tunnel hull construction of this vessel makes it super stable, which allows the kayakers to enjoy fishing even when standing up inside the boat. The construction also enhances its tracking prowess
  • The seating is comfortable and well balanced for tandem, solo, or family fun. It is also high and dry so that the paddler doesn’t feel lost in the boat
  • Dedicated fishing pole holders, as well as shock cord straps and ditty trays, let you easily position your fishing equipment for the best catch
  • Several footrest positions enable it to be used by different-sized kayakers.
  • The 500-pound carrying capacity makes it ideal for proper fishing expeditions involving lots of gear as besides multiple fishermen
  • Front/back molded cradles for holding paddles as well as paddle clips on either side
  • Storage hatch at the back to keep water-sensitive cargo
  • Scupper holes to drain cockpit area of water automatically
  • Comprised of durable, high-density polyethylene, it is rugged enough to survive harsh conditions and, thanks to the UV protection on its top layer, doesn’t fade, peel, or crack as a result of sunlight
  • 10 feet compact design coupled with molded front/back carry handles allow for quick and easy transportation

Cons

  • It isn’t the fastest vessel out there, but that’s because its primary function is fishing, which requires stability achieved by sacrificing speed.
  • Although it says three people in the product description, the third person must be a child.

Finally

A two-person kayak can only be fun when you’ve got a kayaking buddy who’s as enthusiastic about it as you are. It requires some time to learn to work as a team, but once you do, a tandem kayak makes short work of a long journey, and the companionship it provides makes it much more adventurous when going out on a long expedition.

You can find many good tandem kayaks for sale online at discounted prices.

Are you interested in inflatable kayaks ? Click here, or touring kayaks; click here for our breakdown on these types.

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Best Tandem Kayak Reviews

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