Reviews of Best Tandem Kayaks

Tandem kayaking is one of the best adventures to go with your family and friends They have more space available to accommodate more gear along with you. The weight limit of a tandem kayak is 500 to 600 pounds, free enough to accommodate two people and extra gear. 

To go on the best trip, you need to have the best kayak at your disposal with all the necessary features. With the number of products present in the market today, choosing the best tandem kayak can be exhausting. 

Following is the list of best tandem kayaks of 2023 chosen by our experts. To give a clear view of the products, we’ve also added a comparison table at the end comparing the basic features of the products. Give this article a read and pick the right kayak for you.

Best Tandem Kayaks For Sale on 2023

Best Tandem Kayak for Family 

1. Advanced Elements Straightedge Kayak

One of the best tandem kayaks on the list is the Advanced elements straightedge kayak. This kayak is built with an aluminum bow and stern for improved tracking of water while kayaking. It uses a heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin material which is puncture resistant. It bails on its own in bigger waves or in close ports. 

Also, this is an inflatable kayak so it can be deflated any time after use. It provides three seating positions for you to adjust to your preference. You can set it in either solo or tandem mode. 

Available color: Yellow/gray

Pros

• Easy to transport

• Includes a Sail kit 

• Sit-on-top design

Cons

• Bit heavy

• Tracking issues

2. Old Town Tandem Kayak

Old Town’s kayak is one of the best tandem kayaks designed with more stability. It has an auto-trim hull that prevents the bow of the kayak from bulging out. You can detach the front seat to store more gears, and also take your pet along with you. The comfortable flex seat is built with extra padding to give a smooth-riding and seating experience. 

With advanced technology, Old Town comes in various sizes and styles for every adventure. The foot brace system creates a steady platform to help you through difficult water situations. The cockpit is large enough to accommodate two paddlers and also you can even go on a solo trip. 

Available color: Orange/yellow

Pros

• More cockpit space

• Sturdy

• Secure footing

Cons

• Steering straight can be difficult

3. Old Town Twin Heron Kayak

Old Town’s kayak is designed with an auto-trim hull to prevent the kayak’s bow from bulging out if anyone sits in the stern seat. It has a large cockpit to accommodate two people at the same time and also you can go on solo trips. To keep your gear at hand, there are paddle holders and rear bungee. The front seat can be removed as it is an adjustable comfort flex seat. 

For powerful paddling, there is a glide track foot brace system with excellent footing. There are six rod-mount receivers and two cannon rod holders. You can easily transport this kayak from your vehicle to the water with the built-in handles on the bow and stern. All of these features make this kayak one of the best tandem kayaks. 

Available color: Sunrise

Pros

• Large cockpit

• Adjustable comfort flex seats

• Glide Track foot brace system

• Paddle holders

Cons

• Water may run inside the kayak

Best Sit-in Tandem Kayak 

1. Sea Eagle Inflatable Sport Kayak

Sea Eagle’s kayak is one of the best sit-on-top tandem kayaks that can accommodate up to 3 persons. There are two movable, comfortable seats for back support and 2 paddles for an easy acceleration of the boat. Also, the addition of a foot pump and carry bag to store your essentials. 

For better speed and tracking, the bottom has two skegs. There are two valves present where one is to drain the water and the other is for inflation and deflation. There are also two skegs on the bottom for more speed and tracking of the kayak. 

Available Colors: Pro: white, deluxe: white, pro: blue

Pros

• Easy to carry

• Great for beginners

• Lightweight design

Cons

• Quality of the seat can be improved

2. Advanced Elements Convertible Inflatable Kayak

Another best tandem kayak from the list is the Advanced elements convertible inflatable kayak. This boat is constructed with a defined bow and stern for improved tracking. It is also made of three-layered materials for puncture resistance. This kayak is pre-assembled at the factory. So, all you need to do is simply unfold, inflate, attach the seats and it is all set to go. 

Another added advantage is that this kayak can be converted to a single, double, and standard open deck. With the open deck design, you can easily come in and out of the deck. You can also go on on solo trips with this convertible kayak.

Available colors: Red, green

Pros

• Padded seating for back support

• Firm bow and stern

• Puncture-resistant

Cons

• Can be hard to handle 

3. Ocean Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak

Ocean’s Kayak is another one of the best sit-on-top tandem kayaks on this list. It is constructed with three seating positions supporting solo ride, tandem, and tandem paddling with kids and pets. The seats can be adjusted four-way giving a custom fit and slip prevention. 

Overlapped foot wells allow the paddlers to settle in comfortably. This sit-on-top model makes it easy to get in and out of the kayak. It also includes a pair of skid plates and molded-in handles. 

Available color: Sunrise

Pros

• Four-way adjustable seat

• Stable and easy to operate

• Tracks the direction easily

Cons

• Quality can be better

Best Tandem Kayak for Beginners

1. Sevylor Colorado Kayak

Sevylor’s kayak is one of the best tandem kayaks built with PVC material for stability and durability. With a 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover, it gives better protection to the kayak from punctures. With multiple air chambers, the kayak can stay inflated even if any of the air chambers punctures. 

Berkley rod holders enable hands-free fishing and the trolling motor lengthens the fishing capabilities. Paddles can be docked separately in the paddle holders. The kayak can be easily inflated and deflated with the double-threaded Boston valve. You can keep your gears in the mesh pockets attached to the D-ring. Overall, this is one of the kayaks that have great quality and has a longer life.

Available colors: Green

Pros

• Multiple air chambers 

• Easy inflation and deflation

• Trolling motor for a hands-free ride

• Double-threaded Boston valve

Cons

• Customer support can be better

2. Intex Explorer Inflatable Kayak

Intex explorer’s kayak is one of the best sit-on-top tandem kayaks that come with an adjustable seat and a backrest. The cockpit is designed for better comfort and more space. There is a removable SKEG for stability in direction. It has three separate air chambers and an inflatable I-beam floor that is rigid. 

The bright yellow color of the kayak makes it visible in the dark and will be helpful in case of any emergency. You can paddle this kayak even in small bodies of water such as lakes and mild rivers. 

Available color: Yellow 

Pros

• Puncture-resistant vinyl

• Boston valve for inflation and deflation

• Directional stability

Cons

• No storage bags

3. Ocean Tandem Kayak

Another best sit-on-top tandem kayak from the list is from the Ocean brand. This kayak is made of polyethylene material for durability and long life. It is well-built to accommodate two people plus your kid or pet to travel together. 

The seats are adjustable so that you can even travel alone. The paddles can be docked at the side paddle holders so that you can freely do your fishing. 

Available color: Blue fade

Pros

• Can be paddled solo

• Deck bungee to hold items

• Paddle keepers

Cons

• Quality of the kayak can be improved

Best Tandem Kayaks for Experienced 

1. BKC Tandem Kayak

BKC tandem kayak is another one of the best tandem kayaks. This boat can easily fit 3 people, so you can even take your kids. It has enough space to carry extra gear for your trip. This kayak is built with 2 padded seats for extra back support, 2 aluminum adjustable paddles, waterproof hatchers, 6 built-in holders, ad 1 bungee cargo tie-down. 

The material used is high-density polyethylene that is superior to inflatable kayaks. 34-inch beam offers great stability by keeping the boat stable in swift currents. 

There are 4 flush-mount rod holders and 3 articulating rod holders where you can keep multiple baited lines at once. With dual watertight storage, you can keep your essentials dry inside. You can keep all your fishing and outdoor gear in the rear cargo space

Available colors: Green camo, blue camo, grey camo, and red yellow.

Pros

• Loaded accessories

• Built-in fishing rod holders

• Water-resistant storage

• Stable performance

Cons

• Quality can be improved

Comparison of the Best Tandem Kayaks

Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Tandem Kayaks

Before choosing your kayak, there are certain factors that you have to look for and the following are them. Take a look at our tandem kayak buying guide to make the best decision. 

1. Transportation

An average weight of a kayak would be from 60 to 100 pounds totally. Even if you have a second person to assist you, you need to have a solid plan in mind for transportation. Check the dimensions of the kayak and ensure that you have the specific means of transportation. 

2. Value

Always set a budget before your kayak purchase. The price range of the kayak is vast. The average price of a kayak starts from $250 and goes above $1000. Before buying a kayak, look for the important features present in the kayak. Purchasing paddles, mounting kids separately can cost you more than $200. So it is wise to check additional features you require before buying a tandem kayak. 

3. Durability

Durability is important as you cannot keep changing your kayak every year. So, check for the materials used in the making of the kayak. Kayaks built with heavy-duty plastic and PVC have the strongest durability. 

4. Gear Storage

If you are planning on taking any gadgets or other gear items with you, see if the kayak has dry and watertight containers to store your items. 

5. Comfort and Stability

Long paddle may not be comfortable in kayaks. When it comes to the comfort of the kayak, always look at the legroom available, materials used in the making, and leg length accommodation. Stability differs depending on the water situation. Shorter kayaks tend to be less stable than the larger ones. Always prefer a kayak that matches your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you paddle a tandem kayak alone?

Tandem kayaks are an ideal option to paddle with a partner. But if your partner cannot make it, you can easily convert your kayak into a solo deck and paddle alone. You will have to balance your weight and your gear equally between the bow and stern.

2. What is the maximum weight a tandem kayak can hold?

The maximum amount of weight a kayak can hold differs according to the model you choose. Always fill out 75% of the kayak's weight limit. The average weight limit of a tandem kayak is from 500 to 600 pounds.

3. Are tandem kayaks safe to use?

High-rated tandem kayaks are safe to use and are stable. You can take your kids along with you but ensure that they wear a life jacket or an equivalent floatation device.

4. How to store a tandem kayak?

Tandem kayaks are generally larger than the solo kayak and that is why you will need more space to store them. Either purchase a kayak trailer or store it on a cushion-like surface. Make sure you store it in a dark place avoiding sunlight even if it is outside for longer use of the kayak.

5. How a kayak can be transported?

The transport mechanism remains the same no matter the size. You can either use a rack on the top of the car or purchase a kayak trailer separately that can be carried by your hand or even attach it to the back of the vehicle.

Conclusion

Kayaking can be great fun when you pick the right product. Have a clear idea about where you are going to kayak and what type of kayak will suit your needs. If you are clear about this, then picking the kayak will not be a difficult task. 

Hope our article on the best tandem kayaks of 2023 will help you make an informed decision. Write to us in the comment box if you have any questions and we will help you sort them out.