If you’re a fan of water sports then you know there’s nothing better than kayaking. Kayaking is a popular outdoor activity for adventures around the world. A two-person tandem kayak is the best decisions you make when it comes to choosing a kayak. The benefits are that you not only get to bring along friends or family, but you also get extra room for storing valuables or materials you may need while kayaking.
Tandem kayaks are much bigger and faster compared to solo kayaks. They are stable, more spacious and a great safety measure in case of any accidents
What should you look at when choosing the perfect tandem kayak? The material, weight, shape, and length are some of the factors that determine the quality of the tandem kayak you chose.
Here are the top 10 best tandem kayaks in 2018
Intex Explorer K2 inflatable kayak – suitable for sporting and fun
Intex explore is a two-person inflatable kayak with two aluminum bars and an air pump. This bright yellow inter explorer K2 inflatable kayak built for fun and safety is an expert in windy areas, calm rivers, and lakes where you can enjoy a fun water activity.
Specifications and features
- Comes with a high power pump
- Has two aluminum paddles
- Inflatable
- Adjustable seats
With the portable high-pressure pump, you will have this kayak assembled and ready to use in no time. The front of this kayak has a streamlined design for easy paddling. The sleek design allows it to move fast in a straight, smooth manner. The Intex explorer kayak is perfect for light family and friend sporting, touring and racing. Its ideal to experience fun in calm rivers and lakes.
The kayak is vwer spacious that it allows you to bring more items on board like water and gear. With two people on board, you can still move your feet freely. Looking to take your family or friends out on a water cruise? This tandem kayak can accommodate up to 3 people
It is bright yellow to make it visible in water. You don’t have to worry about bumping into each other or getting lost. If you are concerned about your safety, the floor of the Intex explore is made with strong vinyl construction. The material is strong and resistant to wear and tear.
Its light in weight making it easy to travel with. The Intex Explorer weighs about 35 pounds when deflated. The seats can be inflated and adjusted and have extra backrest to guarantee your comfort while kayaking.
The I- beam floors provide stability, so you don’t have to worry about falling over during a fast ride down the river. The kayak isn’t designed to use in choppy water, as long as you don’t go overboard with the weight, you and your partner will kayak without instability issues.
Pros
- It is Puncture resistant design
- It is Light in weight
- Two removable seats
- It is Affordable
- Highly Spacious
- It is Comfortable
Cons
- This kayak can’t be used in White Water Rivers and oceans
- The accessories are minimal
Final verdict
If you are a beginner, I would recommend the Intex Explorer K2 inflatable kayak. The simple design is easy to use, and the structure makes it glide through the water without knowing. Accessories are included when you make the purchase. If you are looking for an affordable tandem kayak, then this might be the right choice for you.
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Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TK219 12 foot Tandem SOT kayak– for fishing
This company makes some of the best kayaks in the market. The UH-TK219 tandem is sturdy and will accommodate an extra person. It is very stable, so you don’t have to worry about tipping over. This 12 foot Tandem kayak has enough space to hold your fishing gear. If you want a stylish design with multiple colors to chose from, you will love the UH- TK 219 kayak.
Specs and features
- Two aluminum paddles and seats
- Five fishing line holders
- Rear cargo storage
- Two paddle rests
- Four handles
- Two bungee paddle parks
This kayak is the definition of fishing made easy. It has multiple storage areas where you can store your belongings. The seats have rear storage pouches to store your fishing gear. The cargo area has a storage area where you can keep some of your extra equipment while looking for an ideal fishing spot.
It has five fishing line holders. Every fisherman dreams of having that many fishing rods out to catch multiple fish at once! While you fish, you can secure your aluminum paddles on the paddle rests installed in the UH-TK219 tandem kayak. The aluminum paddles are lightweight. Kayaking can be tiring and standout to the hands if the paddles are too heavy. Heavy paddles make you tired and weak causing you to miss the fun
The UH-TK 219 has four carrying handles. Seventy pounds may be too heavy for a person to lift. With the assistance of your kayaking buddy, you can raise this kayak from the water with ease. The weight provides stability and is almost impossible to tip over
Pros
- Can handle up to three people
- Has a lot of storage
- Can hold five fishing rods
- Has four handles
Cons
- It’s heavy
Final verdict
If you are a beginner, I would recommend the Intex Explorer K2 inflatable kayak. The simple design ensures it’s easy to use, and the structure makes it slide through the water with no curves. Even though the 70-pound weight may be problematic for one person, it should not be difficult to transport when you’re two or three people.
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Brooklyn kayak company UH-TK181 S.O.T Tandem kayak – recreation and fishing kayak.
This kayak can handle both calm and rough river glasses of water. Although the Brooklyn kayak company UH-TK181 weights 68 pounds, it can maneuver the waves and rough seas easily. It is one among the few kayaks where you have several colors to choose from.
Specs and features
- Have 7-rod holders
- Waterproof storage hatches
- Twin paddle rests
- Has a cargo area
- Has 2 Carrying handles
If you are up for daring fun, you can take this kayak down a calm river with a trolling motor attached. This multipurpose kayak be is used for fishing, camping and anything you can think of. This tandem kayak contains well-built paddle holders to let you go hands-free and enjoy the water. The seven holders are made to accommodate three fishing rods and 4-rod holders. The waterproof storage hatches lets you store valuables like your phone.
This 68- pound UH-TK181 tandem is guaranteed to support a lot of weight. Strong wind and vigorous water cannot topple over this kayak. It has waterproof storage compartments to keep your valuables dry, and a cargo area to secure larger items.
The UH-TK181 S.O.T tandem is safe to use in windy and white water Rivers. If you’ve been kayaking in such waters, you know how much it can be hectic. Water from the river tends to fill up in your kayak; it has eight scupper holes located strategically to let water out while kayaking.
Pros
- Has to carry handles
- Color options available
- Accessories come with the kayak.
Cons
- A little heavy
- Low weight capacity
Final verdict
Are you an adventurous fisher? This kayak is made for you. It is fit to go on oceans, lakes and trolling down the river. You don’t have to waste your money buying several kayaks for different situations. This kayak is of high-quality materials guaranteed to last you longer than most kayaks in the market.
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Sea eagle SE370 inflatable kayak deluxe package– for sports
This lightweight inflatable kayak is convenient for those who enjoy kayak sporting. It is easy to transport and can accommodate up to three people. This kayak is stable enough to handle white river water, and ocean surfs. This kayak is versatile, light and compact enough for you to take anywhere.
Specs and features
- Inflatable floor and seats
- I beam floor
- 3 one way drain valves
- Flat bottom
If you’re scared that this kayak may not be safe on water, don’t let its lightweight have you fooled. This kayak is made with strong, durable material that can withstand up to 650 pounds. It is strong enough to hold two adults and their gear, but it takes only a person to carry it from the water.
The company makes this kayak with thick hull material to give you excellent strength and durability while on water. The kayak I-beam floor is made 33 millimeters thick polyethylene hull. If you are an animal lover, this kayak is right for you. You can bring your puppy with you because the material makes it resistible to any sharp or pointy objects on the surface and in water.
If you are on a low budget for a strong sporting kayak, the sea eagle is the best choice. The sea eagle is also very convenient. It comes with a carrying case to keep your kayak folded and ready to use in the trunk of your car.
Its inflatable size makes it the most comfortable kayaks to transport anywhere. You can use it in more than one water body. It is strong enough to handle rivers, lakes, and oceans. If you are in for a daring experience, this kayak has Rope handles and a drainage e valve making it safe to kayak in White Water Rivers.
Just when we start to think this kayak couldn’t get any safer, the Sea eagle proves us wrong. Its seams are welded with ten thousand volts of power that ensures the kayak stays in one piece and increase the lifespan of this boat. The sea eagle kayak is also salt resistant. Ocean water will not reduce the integrity of the material no matter how much time you spend kayaking there.
Pros
- It’s strong
- Easy to store
- Easy to transport
- Light and compact
- Budget-friendly option
- Pressure gauge available
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- The seat webbing might stain the hull
- No ropes to tie gear down.
- Can blow in windy conditions
Final verdict
The Sea eagle SE370 inflatable kayak deluxe package is an inflatable boat, so it should not be expected to perform as a stable kayak would. The design is created to get through anything. This kayak is great for both advanced and beginner paddlers. It is excellent on flat water and you can track in a straight line without needing any paddling power.
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Advanced elements advanced frame convertible inflatable kayak – Multipurpose kayak
The Advanced element Advanced frame kayak is fifteen foot long and you can paddle it solo or in a tandem. This deck is convertible. This means you can use the single or double layer to convert from a closed to an open kayak and vice versa in a matter of seconds. The kayak can also be converted from a single to a double deck within a matter of seconds
Specs and features
- Hull design
- It has six chambers
- Paddle holders
- Skeg tracking fin
- It has tie Downs
- Adjustable padded back support
Conversion
Double deck conversion
All you do is attach the optional double deck to make the advanced kayak into a double frame and enjoy kayaking with friends or family. The double layer has mesh storage
The frame Single deck conversion
Attach the single deck frame that comes as an accessory with this advanced frame convertible kayak. The kayak transforms into a closed deck solo kayak in just 10 seconds.
The standard open deck
Remove the double or single frame to transform this into an open kayak that can be used as a double or solo kayak.
Are you are tall and find kayaks super uncomfortable? Have you been searching endlessly for kayaks that won’t strain your back? The search for the right kayak might just be over for you. The seats have a higher foot support which is ideal and comfortable for tall people.
It has a sebaceous cockpit that enables you to move your legs around without feeling stuck. The front has a bow tapering to let you add extra packages and gear
This kayak has a hard floor that uses the drop stitch technology to enhance its performance and durability. The material for the advanced frame convertible kayak is piled into three layers making it hard to puncture. Accessories that come with this kayak include a waterproof duffle bag, an emergency kit, and two folding seats
Pros
- It can carry up to three people
- It is easy to set up
- It is easy to switch up
- Comfortable for tall people
Cons
- You’ll need to purchase a high power inflator pump
- No foot brace
Final verdict
This kayak is very comfortable, stable, and rugged and paddling is simple. There is much front legroom for you to carry extra equipment and accessories. Versatility makes the advanced elements advanced frame convertible inflatable kayak a favorite kayak. It has numerous optional accessories that you can use to enhance the paddling experience and performance.
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Intex challenger K2 2-person inflatable kayak – recreation and sport
The Intex challenger K2 kayak is made in a streamlined design for a fun and natural sporting activity. The bright green color makes it easy for others to see you during your sporting activities.
Specs and features
- High output pump
- Inflatable
- Aluminum oars
We are guaranteed this product will last for a while It is made super strong for safety and durability. It is made with vinyl material which makes it puncture resistant. The double welded seams make it incredibly strong and able to hold for a while.
The four handles installed on the side makes it easy for you and your kayaking partner to carry it from the water once you are done sporting. High visible graphics on the Intex challenger K2 2-person inflatable kayak make it safe for you to use. You can assemble and dismantle this kayak within a record time of twenty minutes.
The cockpit seat has inflatable seats designed for your comfort and pace. This kayak is excellent for beginners given its ability to provide extra control while steering
This kayak has more than enough storage facilities. It has a cargo net to keep your essentials in reach. The storage space on the cockpit allows you to carry more essentials you may need. You can use this kayak on lakes and mild rivers.
Pros
- It’s spacious
- Strong
- Inflatable
- Comes with a high output pump
- UV resistant
Cons
- Storage is not waterproof
- Can’t be used in rough waters
- Can’t withstand a lot of weight
Final verdict
This product provides excellent service if you’re looking for thrilling kayaking sessions within your budget. It comes with safety features, and from the way its made, it can last you for a long time. This kayak is easy to store and move around. I recommend this for sporty kayakers.
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Ocean kayak 12-feet Malibu two tandem sit-on-top – recreational kayak
If you are looking for a kayak tandem that you can be paddled solo, look no more. This kayak is compact and lightweight to accommodate your travel needs. Although it has two padded seats, it is wide enough to accommodate your child or pet along with your journey.
Specs and features
- Three- seat wells
- Overlapping foot wells
- Sturdy carrying handles
This kayak has a replaceable skid plate that helps lengthen the lifespan of your kayak. The skid plate minimizes the damage to your kayak while you’re on water. It is specially made for diving experts. For those who enjoy diving, this ocean kayak has enough storage to hold your diving gear when you are out in the ocean.
It can still work well when you’re kayaking solo. It could accommodate up to three people if you chose to do it in a group. Ocean kayak is compact and lightweight making it easy to transport to different places
Its three sitting chair position makes it perfect for taking an extra person on a kayak expedition. It has overlapping foot wells for comfortable footing while you are steering the kayak from the front.
Pros
- Safe
- Comfortable
- Works well solo or tandem
Cons
- Pricey
- Paddles are sold separately
Final verdict
Whether you’re traveling alone tandem in this kayak, stability, and versatility are guaranteed. Its quality design and good materials make it perfect to use in more than just sea water.
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Drift sun Teton 120 hard shell kayak – made for recreational purposes
This kayak is built for people who are looking to fish and paddle with friends. This kayaks built for comfort. You can use it for touring, fishing, and cruising. It combines high-quality materials and needed accessories to make your experience safe and fun.
Specs and features
- Capacity; up to 500 pounds
- Adjustable paddles and seats
- Sealed dry storage hatches
- Flush mount capped rod holders
- Built-in cup holders
You can use this tandem kayak for solo or tandem paddling. It is comfortable and stable, can easily hold two adults and one child and performs well in ocean surfs, choppy waters and flat water
If you are a beginner, this is another tandem kayak I would recommend for you. The Drift sun Teton 120 hard shell kayak is easy to use for any level of experience. It is easy to set up and has a compact design. Although it is a tandem, it is equipped with three sitting positions to hold two adults and a child or a pet.
You can enjoy your beverage choice while kayaking. This kayak has Built-in cup holders to hold your drink when you’re fishing. It performs very well on soft, smooth waters, ocean surfing, and windy conditions. It is also designed to withstand some harsh conditions.
Pros
- UV resistant
- Can hold up to 500 pounds
- Removable and adjustable seats
- Waterproof storage
- Has paddle rest
Cons
- It is heavy
- Storage may not be enough.
Final thoughts
Drift sun Teton 12oT is the perfect kayak if you’re looking to fish, paddle or go cruising with friends. It is made with high-quality material and comes with useful accessories, all priced within a pocket-friendly budget. Whether you are looking to relax on the river with family and friends or looking for adventure in an ocean’s surf, this kayak will meet up to your standards.
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Vibe kayaks 120T skipjack 12 Foot tandem kayak– fishing sporting and recreation
This tandem kayak can fit an extra person. This is a good tandem kayak if you enjoy fishing There are multiple holders to hold your fishing rods and paddles while you are in a water body, You don’t have to balance the paddles on the kayak while trying to get the fish out the water or trying to take a picture
Specs and features
- 4 sealed hatches
- Two -paddle packs for securing paddles
- Two -person seat
- Bungee system
The kayak has inbuilt paddle parks to help you secure you paddles while you’re resting. No more losing your paddles overboard. You can use this tandem kayak for a solo ride by sitting at the center position.
The multiple storage options in this kayak will come in handy. It has two mount rod holders for accessories, cup holders to store your cold beverages, and a rear cargo area with strap downs for larger gear. Its ability to store items onboard will allow you more exploration time. You can safely store some snacks in the storage chambers and won’t have to worry about leaving mid-exploration
The four inbuilt handles make it easy to get this kayak in and out of the water. Bright colors scare away fish. The Vibe kayaks 120T skipjack comes in a range of camouflage color, making it ideal for fishing.
Pros
- It’s lightweight
- Comfortable
- Easy to set up
- Has multiple storage systems
- Can accommodate up to three people
Cons
- Pricey
- Additional accessories are expensive
Final verdict
The vibe kayaks skipjack is perfect for those who want to fish and explore with friends and family at an affordable price. It has a flat stable bottom making it perfect for beginners to practice with.
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Vibe kayak yellowfin 130T tandem SOT kayak– for recreation
The vibe kayak yellowfin 130T tandem may be expensive but is among the few with almost all desirable features. Every dollar you spend on this kayak will be worth it.
Specs and features
- Footrests
- Storage options
- Rod holders
- Removable seats
The footrests on the vibe kayaks yellowfin 130 are adjustable. You can adjust them according to height to guarantee full comfort while kayaking. It provides multiple seating options; you can move your seat to the center position for comfort. It is a good choice if you are looking for a perfect tandem kayak that can be solo steered
The sealed hatches in its the body have drink holders molded next to them. You can enjoy a cold drink while you’re on a water body. There are two storage hatches, one at the front and the other at the center
You will find cord lashing attached to the front and the rear of the vibe kayak for extra storage and fishing gear. Bungee cords ensure that your kayak does not slip away during choppy water conditions.
Pros
- Good quality material
- Comfortable seats
- Plenty of legroom
- Wide and stable
Cons
- A little bit heavy
- No skid plate included
- Not for agile water
Final verdict
This pricey kayak is best if you’re looking for a fishing kayak with maximum installed features and the price range is within your budget. You can easily maneuver it through whitewater rivers and plant-filled rivers to find the excellent fishing spot.
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What to consider when choosing a perfect tandem kayak-buying guide
Weight capacity
Every tandem kayak has its weight capacity. The tandem kayaks capacity range between 400 and 850 pounds. You should choose a kayak according to the number of people you’re planning to ride within the kayak and the amount of gear that you want to carry.
Materials
Modern kayaks are durable, but they are different according to the type of materials used on them. You should consider the type of material used because it will determine the durability and the weight of the tandem kayak
Polyethylene
Polythene is an excellent choice for the hull. It’s a plastic common in making kayaks. It is lightweight and great for resisting damage such as scratches and collisions.
The negative side of using polythene is that it gets brittle with time due to exposure to sunlight. Keeping a polyethylene out of sunlight in impossible when you’re going for an outdoor adventure, therefore, it is bound to get old fast
Composite
Its mixture of fiberglass, and carbon. This mixture creates a robust and durable material that is very light. You should choose polythene over composite material. The composite material is known to age faster than polyethylene.
Speed
Tandem kayaks are great for speed. Using more paddlers will generate more speed on your tandem kayak. Longer tandem kayaks can cut through the water and the waves quicker and easier.
The Shape
The shape of the hull determines the performance and function of the tandem kayak.
The main shapes are;
A flat bottom
If you are a beginner, invest in a flat base shaped kayak. Flat bottoms give the kayak more stability. The flat bottom is restricted to calm rivers and lakes. A flat bottom kayak won’t cut through waves in the ocean and rough waters.
Rounded bottom
Rounded bottoms allow your kayak to glide through waves and rough waters. They are faster compared to flat bottom kayaks. They lose their stability in water because of the round shape. I would recommend round bottomed kayaks for pros and intermediates.
V – Shaped
They are the fastest among the three. Professionals use these hulls for their fast speeds and long distance traveling. They are the most unstable. Even so, they are great for sharp turns and are easy to maneuver compared to others.
Stability
Tandem kayaks are known to be the most stable kayaks invented. They are great for teaching beginners how to kayak. Chose your kayak according to the level of stability and the nature of the water you are going to kayak on
Space
When you are choosing a kayak, you should consider the purpose and the amount of space you will need on the kayak. For instance, a fisherman needs kayaks with more storage space for their fishing equipment. Tandem kayaks have plenty of space allowing you to bring personal belongings and necessary stuff with you.
Price
Finally, you should choose a kayak that is of good quality but fits within your budget.