10 Best Tandem Kayak Reviews 2024: Tandem Kayak Reviews

Last Updated on February 27, 2024 by Afsar

Ahoy there adventurer! If you’re looking for an exhilarating kayaking experience with a companion, then tandem kayaking is the perfect solution for you. Tandem kayaks are two-seater kayaks that offer the best of both worlds – the thrill of kayaking and the company of a fellow paddler. These kayaks come equipped with dual cockpits, allowing you and your partner to embark on your aquatic adventure side by side. No more paddling alone; it’s time to enjoy a tandem journey through the rolling waves and rushing rapids. With the ability to accommodate up to three people, you have a variety of options for your kayaking adventures. So, get ready to gear up, grab a friend, and set sail on your next tandem kayaking excursion!

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Top Tandem Kayaks List 2024

Ocean Kayak 12 Feet Malibu Two

Best Multi-purpose tandem kayak: Who doesn’t love colorful kayaks? Everybody loves a colorful kayak to paddle on sunny days, right? Ocean Kayak Malibu Two is one of the best tandem kayaks available. You and your fellow paddler or family can easily use this tandem kayak on lakes, rivers, open seas, and flat water. If you are married and want to take your child, this tandem kayak is the best one for you. Due to the seating arrangements, you can take your child with your partner to enjoy the beautiful scenario or on a family picnic. This tandem kayak comes with three seating positions: bow, stern, and middle. If you are paddling alone, then you can sit in the middle. This kayak comes with molded-in seat wells with two comfortable plus seats. Thus, you and your pal can sit, relax and paddle as you wish.

Its length is 12′, width is 34″, weight is 57 lbs, and maximum capacity is 275-425. Malibu Two will come with two comfortable plus seats to ensure you can sit and relax while paddling. Other features include the molded-in seat wells, gear straps, skid plate, and more. Even if you are a big guy or girl, your leg won’t hurt, thanks to the excellent design by Ocean Kayak. If you love paddling in the ocean, you can use it too. However, it depends on how skilled you are and how you face the big swells. This kayak is famous for its stability and versatile usage. Whether you want to paddle solo or tandem, its performance won’t decrease. From fishing to recreational purposes, this tandem kayak is a beast.

As we mentioned, you can use it for multi-purpose too. If you want to fish from Malibu Two, you must rig properly to mount fishing gears. Moreover, it comes at a very reasonable price for durability, feature, and comfort.

A multi-purpose tandem kayak at a decent price.

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Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T – Tandem Kayak Package

Ahoy matey! Are you ready for a kayaking adventure unlike any other? Then hoist the sails and set your course for the Vibe Skipjack 120T! This tandem kayak may not be the most recognizable name in the industry, but it’s got everything a kayaker could ask for and more. With two seating positions and room for one child, this kayak is the perfect vessel for a family outing or a romantic sunset dinner. And if you prefer to paddle solo, switch to the center position for a solo excursion.

The Vibe Skipjack 120T is the ultimate kayak for fishing, exploring, and sightseeing. Take on the challenges of the lakes, rivers, surf, and flat water with ease. Two deluxe kayak seats provide comfort during long paddles and fishing trips, while two flush-mount fishing rod holders let you mount your favorite fishing rods with ease. The mounting points are also compatible with various accessories, including a kayak GPS or fish finder. With built-in cup holders, bungee paddle parks, and more, this kayak has everything you need for a successful fishing trip.

The Skipjack 120T offers excellent stability, allowing you to walk on deck with ease, and its 12.2-foot design provides superior maneuverability. Made of rotomolded single-piece polyethylene, this kayak is built to last and can hold up to 500 pounds. With two storage hatches and easy access to the rear tank well, you’ll have plenty of room for all your gear. At 72 pounds, the Vibe Skipjack 120T is lightweight and easily portable, making it a fantastic choice for kayakers on a budget. So gear up and set sail on your next kayaking adventure with the Vibe Skipjack 120T, one of the best tandem kayaks for the money!

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Advanced Elements AE1007-R – advanced frame Convertible Inflatable Tandem Kayak

Discover the Ultimate Adventure with the Best Inflatable Tandem Kayak: AE1007-R! This magnificent vessel from Advanced Elements is unlike any other inflatable kayak you’ve encountered before. With a length of 15 feet and weighing only 52 lbs, this kayak boasts an impressive maximum weight capacity of 550 lbs. But don’t let its lightweight fool you, the AE1007-R is built to last with its advanced frame featuring built-in aluminum ribs that define the bow and stern, ensuring that it has great tracking and stability on the water. One of the biggest concerns with inflatable kayaks is their durability, but the AE1007-R puts those worries to rest with its three layers of material that provide extreme puncture resistance. And, it’s so easy to set up, you’ll be ready to hit the water in no time. Unfold it and inflate it, and you’re good to go!

The open deck design is perfect for easy entry and exit, but if you prefer a closed deck, don’t worry, you can convert it in minutes with the single or double deck conversion option. And the adjustable padded seats will provide high support for long hours of paddling, with three seating positions available for either tandem or solo paddling. Built to withstand even the toughest of waters, the AE1007-R is made with durable double-coated fabric that is rugged and ready to go. With 6 chambers, you’ll have peace of mind even if one punctures, and with paddle holders, a skeg tracking fin, and D-Ring tie-downs, you can easily attach gear like dry bags and more. So why settle for just any inflatable kayak when you can have the best? Set off on your next adventure with the AE1007-R and experience the thrill of the water like never before!

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Lifetime 10 Sports Fishing Tandem Kayak

Nothing beats Lifetime 10 Sports Fishing tandem kayak regarding features and price if you are looking for a tandem fishing kayak. Up to three people can ride this fishing kayak at once. It is specially built to maximize your fishing experience. Lifetime Spor Fishing kayak is a well-equipped fishing kayak that can be used in rivers, lakes, flat water, and maybe in the backyard pond. However, it is advised not to use it in rapids. Lifetime 10 sports fishing kayak is made of high-quality polyethylene, which provides excellent durability. Due to the strong body, it will stay fine for many, many years.

A great fishing tandem kayak specially built for the fishing purpose.

You can easily stand up and keep fishing on this kayak. The tunnel hull design allows you to fish in both sitting and standing positions. If you want, you can sit side-saddle too. The tunnel hull design makes sure that the deck is dry. It comes with all the necessary fishing arrangements like three fishing pole holders and 6” storage hatch to make sure you can fish properly. Also, this tandem kayak is very easy to carry and move, thanks to the molded carry handles.

A fishing kayak requires more maneuverability than tracking. You get a perfect combination of tracking and maneuverability in this tandem fishing kayak. The only downside of the Lifetime Fisher tandem kayak is its low storage option. Since it’s a fishing tandem kayak, more storage would have been better. Otherwise, it’s the best tandem kayak for anglers.

Read Our detailed review:  Lifetime Sport Fisher Kayak Review

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Sea Eagle SE370K Inflatable Kayak Pro

Dubbed as the best inflatable tandem kayak, we loved this kayak for its performance, features, and durability. You can check this inflatable tandem kayak if you are up to cruising with a partner. It is lightweight, portable, has great stability, and just works fantastic. This tandem kayak weighs only 32 pounds, yet it can hold up to 650 pounds. It can also carry up to three people at a time with the gears. If you are that guy who loves to bring their dogs on the journey, then we got some good news for you. The rugged PolyKrylar hull is very strong to withstand your dog’s paws and claws. Another reason to get this inflatable tandem kayak.

This tandem kayak can be used for several purposes like paddling, fishing, yacht tending, or maybe scuba diving. You can even go for the river as it is suitable to handle whitewater up to class III. Note that, always bring whitewater kayaking helmets for security. It takes only 8 minutes to inflate. This tandem kayak has numerous features like a removable front and rear seat, self-bailing drain valve, inflatable spray skirts, self-bailing drain valve, 5-deluxe one-way valves, and many others. If you prefer inflatable over hard-shell, this is one of the best tandem kayaks for you.

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AIRHEAD AHTK-2 Montana Performance 2-Person Kayak

Best Cheap inflatable tandem kayak: Not everybody loves hard shells. Inflatable kayaks are great for you if you fall into that category. Airhead AHTK-2 Montana is a 12-foot-long inflatable tandem kayak that weighs only 36.3 pounds. The maximum weight capacity of Airhead Montana is 500 pounds. It’s lightweight, compact, and offers great portability. Airhead Montana is a perfect tandem kayak for roaming in lakes, slow rivers, and moderate white water. Airhead used semi-rigid heavy gauge PVC construction to make this lightweight tandem kayak. The tubular I-beam floor offers great comfort to the users. It also helps to have good tracking on the go.

Three air chambers are available in the kayak, enclosed by rugged 840-denier nylon with UV and water-resistant coatings. You will find 2 Boston valves that ensure quick inflating and deflating. The seats provided are also inflatable. These movable and removable seats offer a good amount of comfort to the users with back support. Other features include the 6 D-rings at the bow & stern to attach gears, grab handles for easy carrying, neoprene elbow guards, and more. If you are not ready to spend crazily or have a limited budget, this is by far one of the best tandem kayaks for you.

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Lifetime 10 Foot Manta Tandem Kayak

This is undoubtedly one of the best tandem kayaks on the market. Our tandem kayak review would be uncompleted if we failed to list it. This is a lite tandem sit-on-top kayak made of durable polyethylene plastic. Thus, this is a perfect choice for you if you are up to kayaking in rocky water streams. While having a chit-chat with your friends, you can kayak comfortably.

Although it’s only 10 feet long, it accommodates up to 3 people. Its seats are designed in such a way that three people can sit easily. You can go for a family picnic, tandem kayaking, or maybe a solo quickie on it. Its tunnel hull design provides great stability along with tracking. This tandem kayak’s “High and dry” seating position keeps the kayakers off of the kayak floor.

This multi-purpose inflatable kayak can be used for fishing, recreation, surfing, etc. It comes with several features to make it easy to use. It’s a great recreational kayak with tons of features. It weighs only 60lbs and provides a carry handle for easy transportation.

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Advanced Elements Lagoon 2 Inflatable Kayak

My friend called this the best two-person kayak ever, and he has some point. This is yet another excellent tandem inflatable kayak. You will find this kayak gorgeous if you love to kayak with your buddy but don’t want to be separated by a different kayak. This inflatable tandem kayak is perfect for lakes rivers, bays, etc. This inflatable kayak can be easily inflated and deflated. Its quick inflating twist lock & high-flow spring valves make it kids’ work to set it up. This tandem kayak provides built-in rigid panels on the bow & stern, which improves the tracking. It has handy features like padded high support capacity, bungee deck lacing, molded rubber-grip handles, and many others. It has a length of 12 feet, and it’s made with two different materials. The topside is made of high-denier polyester with a PVC laminate; on the other hand, the bottom is made of PVC tarpaulin. These provide great durability and increase performance.

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Tandem kayaks can be used for several reasons like fishing, recreation, touring, or maybe a family picnic. We have already mentioned the purpose of each kayak in the list above. However, you can find them from here also:

Tandem Fishing Kayak

If you love fishing with your buddy but don’t want to paddle on a different kayak, then tandem fishing kayaks are the best for you. Tandem fishing kayaks are usually different than a standard tandem kayaks.

They are made in such a way that will maximize your fishing experience. You can use any other tandem kayaks for fishing, but these tandem fishing kayaks come with rod holders, gear mounting like portable Fish finder, etc.

It is highly recommended to use durable kayaks. If you use an inflatable kayak for fishing, there are chances of getting punctured by hooks. Tandem fishing kayaks usually have better storage to keep the catches or keep kayak catch coolers. Our choice of the best fishing tandem kayaks are:

1. Lifetime 10 Foot Sport Fisher Tandem Kayak (amazon link) (Best fishing tandem kayak)
2. Useful UH-TK181 12.5 foot Tandem Fishing Kayak (amazon link)

Three-Person Tandem Kayak

Sometimes a two-person seat design might not be satisfactory to you. Or maybe you want three people on a single kayak. Some kayaks allow you to ride three people. Usually, people who are up to fishing might love this or maybe for reasons.

1. Lifetime 10 Foot Sport Fisher Tandem Kayak
2. Sea Eagle SE370K Inflatable Kayak Pro
3. Ocean Kayak 12 Feet Malibu (best for couples with children)

Recreational Tandem Kayak

A majority of the kayaks are used for recreational purposes. People who love to kayak on the lakes, on slow water, or maybe on whitewater will find it easy to get the best tandem kayak for them. Most recreational tandem kayaks have one simple task: improve your kayaking experience. Check these best recreational tandem kayaks:

• Ocean Kayak 12 Feet Malibu
• Lifetime 10 Foot Manta Tandem Kayak
• Lagoon 2 Inflatable Kayak

Multi-purpose Tandem Kayak

Some kayaks can be used for multipurpose. These kayaks can be used for fishing, touring, whitewater, family day trips, etc. We have already mentioned them in the comparison chart above. However, our favorite best multipurpose tandem kayaks are:

• Ocean Kayak 12 Feet Malibu
• Hobie Mirage Oasis Tandem Kayak

Inflatable Tandem Kayak

A Tandem kayak comes in a hard shell, plastic or inflatable type. Inflatable kayaks are popular for their portability. Inflatable tandem kayaks are lightweight and easy to store. Note that inflatable kayaks are not recommended for fishing purposes, as they may be got damaged/punctured by the hooks. Here are the best inflatable tandem kayaks:

• Intex Explorer K2 Kayak (Cheap inflatable tandem kayak)
• Sea Eagle SE370K Inflatable Kayak Pro
• Lagoon 2 Inflatable Kayak

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How To Choose The Best Tandem kayak 2024

Choosing the perfect tandem kayak is an adventure in itself. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to the sport, selecting the right kayak is about creating unforgettable memories on the water with a partner. Let’s dive into the key considerations to help you find that perfect kayak that feels like it’s made just for you and your paddling buddy.

1. Discovering Your Kayaking Adventures

• For the Leisurely Paddlers: Imagine gliding over serene lakes or meandering rivers, where the only sound is your paddles dipping into the water. Recreational kayaks are perfect for these peaceful excursions. They’re stable and easy to handle, making them a great choice for enjoying nature or spending quality time with a friend or family member.
• For the Explorers and Adventurers: If you’re dreaming of coastal expeditions or multi-day river treks, a touring tandem kayak is your trusty vessel. These kayaks are designed for distance and efficiency, ensuring that you can comfortably explore those distant horizons. Picture yourself loading up your kayak with camping gear and setting off for an adventure where the journey is as rewarding as the destination.
• For the Anglers Among Us: Fishing on a tandem kayak is not just an activity; it’s an experience. With rod holders, gear mounts, and ample storage, a fishing kayak turns a regular fishing trip into a thrilling hunt on the water. Whether you’re a pro angler or just starting out, there’s something incredibly satisfying about reeling in a catch from your kayak.

2. Size and Weight – Your Comfort on the Water

• Choosing the Perfect Fit: The length and width of your kayak are like choosing the right pair of shoes. Longer kayaks slice through the water like a knife, offering speed and smooth tracking, ideal for longer journeys. Shorter kayaks, on the other hand, are your agile sneakers, great for quick turns and fun in smaller water bodies.
• Feel the Stability: For those new to kayaking or if you’re planning a relaxing day on the water, a wider kayak provides the stability you need. It’s like having a steady hand guiding you, ensuring you feel secure and confident as you paddle.
• Pack it All: Remember, your kayak needs to carry not just you and your partner, but all your gear too. Make sure to check the weight capacity to ensure all your essentials for the day (or several days) can come along for the ride.

3. Material and Durability – Your Kayak’s Backbone

• The Trusty Polyethylene: If you’re looking for a kayak that can take a beating and keep on floating, polyethylene is your go-to. It’s the rugged, all-terrain vehicle of kayak materials – not afraid of a few scrapes and bumps along the way.
• Sleek and Strong ABS Plastic: For those who want a bit of grace with their grit, ABS plastic kayaks are a fantastic middle-ground. They’re lighter, making them easier to transport and maneuver, yet still tough enough to handle various conditions.
• The Elite Composite: If you’re all about performance and don’t mind investing a bit more, composite kayaks are like the sports cars of the water. They’re light, sleek, and designed for top-notch efficiency and speed. Paddling one of these is a pure joy – it’s about feeling every smooth glide and swift turn.

4. Comfort and Ergonomics – Your Home on the Water

• Sitting Pretty: Think of your kayak seat like your favorite armchair. For those long, lazy days or intense paddling adventures, you want a seat that says, “Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.” Look for padded, adjustable seats that hug your back and support your posture, ensuring every trip is a pleasure, not a pain.
• Happy Feet: Adjustable foot pegs in a kayak are like the perfect pair of dancing shoes. They allow you to find your sweet spot, offering support and control as you navigate through the waters. Whether you’re tall, short, or somewhere in between, a kayak that lets you adjust to your size makes all the difference in staying comfortable and in control.
• Room to Breathe: A spacious cockpit is your personal bubble. It’s the space where you can stretch, move, and feel free. For those taller or more robust paddlers, or for anyone who likes a bit more room to maneuver, a larger cockpit is like having a first-class seat on your water-bound journey.

5. Storage and Portability – Your Kayak, Your Companion

• All Your Treasures Onboard: Whether it’s a camera to capture the sunrise, a cooler for your picnic, or camping gear for a night under the stars, your kayak’s storage is its treasure chest. Hatches and deck rigging are essential for keeping your gear safe and dry. It’s like having a trusty backpack that never leaves your side.
• Taking Your Kayak Places: Think of your kayak’s portability like choosing a travel partner. Can you easily lift it onto your car? Do you need a trailer? A lighter kayak can be a breeze to transport, making your trips to and from the water as enjoyable as the paddling itself.

6. Stability vs. Speed – The Dance of the Kayak

• Steady as She Goes: Primary stability in a kayak is like a trusted friend holding your hand as you step into a new adventure. It’s the confidence you feel when you first sit in your kayak, the assurance that you’re safe and secure, making it ideal for beginners, photographers, or anglers.
• Grace Under Pressure: Secondary stability is like learning to dance in the rain. It’s the kayak’s ability to stay stable even when the waters get rough, when you’re leaning into a turn, or riding through waves. It’s for those who seek thrills, who paddle where the water runs wild.

7. Additional Features – The Bells and Whistles of Your Kayak

• Rudders and Skegs – Your Kayak’s Guiding Stars: Imagine having a trusted guide on your journey, someone who knows the way and keeps you on track. That’s what rudders and skegs do for your kayak. They help in steering and maintaining a straight course, especially when the wind and currents try to dictate your path. It’s about having that extra edge in control, whether you’re navigating challenging waters or aiming for a relaxed day on the lake.
• Tandem or Convertible – The Shape-Shifting Wonder: Some tandem kayaks are like transformers. They adapt from a duo adventure vessel to a solo explorer’s craft with ease. This versatility is perfect for those who love the option of paddling with a partner or embarking on a solo journey. It’s about having a kayak that’s ready for every mood and every occasion.

8. Budget – Investing in Memories

Setting the Right Value: Choosing a kayak is like investing in a series of future adventures. It’s important to set a realistic budget, considering what you’re willing to spend for comfort, performance, and durability. Remember, a more expensive kayak might offer advanced features and longer life, but there are also fantastic, budget-friendly options for those just starting their kayaking journey. It’s about finding that sweet spot where the cost meets your dreams and expectations.

9. Test Paddling – The First Date with Your Kayak

Feeling the Connection: There’s nothing quite like the first time you take a kayak out on the water. It’s like a first date where you’re getting to know each other. Test paddling different models is crucial. It lets you feel the kayak’s stability, how it responds to your movements, and whether it’s comfortable for your body type. It’s about ensuring that when you’re ready to commit, it’s to a kayak that you’re truly compatible with.

10. Brand and Warranty – The Trust Factor

Choosing a Reliable Companion: Just like in any relationship, trust is key when choosing your kayak. Researching brands, their reputation in quality and durability, is essential. A well-known brand might offer better after-sales service and assurance of quality. And don’t forget the warranty – it’s like a promise from the manufacturer that they stand behind their product. It’s about having peace of mind, knowing that your kayak is built to last and supported by a company that cares.

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