Best Tandem Kayak

When you think of kayaking, you probably picture yourself enjoy the treacherous waters or fishing by yourself at the lake. But, of course, there are also those days when you want to go out and about with friends and family. Who says you can’t enjoy the water with friends?

This is where a tandem kayak will come in handy! Tandem fishing kayaks can be found in plenty in the market. Each has their own features which makes it unique. But, how to find the best one? Well, perhaps our Tandem kayak reviews will help you get an accurate picture of the boats currently in the market.

What is a Tandem Kayak?

Best Tandem Kayak Before we move on to the Tandem Kayak reviews, it is important to know what a tandem is. A tandem kayak is basically like any other kayak, only it can seat more than one person. Some kayaks only seat two persons, while others can even go as far as to seat three persons.

These kayaks are longer than most kayaks to make room for more people. Thus, you’ll find most tandem kayaks come at about 12 to 13 feet long. They also have higher weight capacities to easily support more people.

These kayaks are perfect for taking the family out. Since it requires at least two people to paddle together, it can help build teamwork. You can even guide your kids about how to paddle or how to fish with a tandem kayak. All in all, they will make your trips much more enjoyable as you’ll be surrounded by people you love.

Best Tandem Kayaks

1: BKC UH-TK219 12 foot Tandem Sit on Top Kayak

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If you’re looking for the best 2-person kayak from the best brand in the market, then the BKC UH-TK219 Tandem is perfect for you. This high price range 12-foot longboat can actually accommodate up to 3 persons. On the other hand, if you’re looking to ride it on your own, then the boat is light enough to be maneuvered by a single person.

They sit on top kayak weighs merely 68 lbs yet it can hold a weight capacity of 440 lbs. The boat includes a 34-inch beam which helps it gain superb stability. This makes it easier to row it in the choppiest of waters.

What’s more, is that the kayak has multiple storage options including two waterproof hatches. You can store your wallets, phones, camera, snacks etc. without worrying about them getting wet. Also included is a cargo area that can be bungeed down to help secure larger baggage such as a bucket or a cooler.

The wide variety of storage options mean that you can use it as a touring kayak and for kayaking overnight. However, that’s not all! You can also use it as a fishing kayak. The BKC includes 4 fishing rod holders as well as 2 adjustable rod holders. This will allow you and your entire family to throw as many fishing lines as they want.

When you feel like taking a break, the BKC comes with paddle rests as well where you can secure the paddles. This way they won’t go overboard and will stay safe. Moreover, the kayak is quite easy to carry as well. It features four carrying handles to make transport effortless.

The BKC will last you a long time too since it is made up of durable High-Density Polyethylene. The material is UV protected as well which ensures that the color does not fade off due to countless hours in the sun.

2: Ocean Kayak 12-Feet Malibu Recreational Kayak

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Whether you’re looking for a tandem kayak for sale or kayak rentals, the Ocean Kayak 12 Feet Tandem is simply the best. The kayak includes three different seating positions to help you enjoy a day out in the sun with your entire family.

The best kayak 2019 comes with two Comfort Plus seats that are highly adjustable. In fact, they can be adjusted in four ways. This helps you get a custom fit according to your preferences. Afraid of your child slipping down the seat? The seats are specifically molded to help prevent any slippage.

Needless to say, the Ocean Kayak Tandem is all about comfort. Also included are overlapping footwells that allow you to brace your feet in a more comfortable manner. This means folks of all sizes and heights can find a footwell that caters to them.

The open sit-on-top design of the kayak may deter some due to the overspray. However, for the more adventurous folks, it can be a part of all the fun. What’s more, is that it makes it easy to enter and exit the kayak. The molded handles and skid plate further assist you in entering or exiting by providing ample support.

Moreover, the tandem kayak weight limit is about 425 lbs. This means it can easily support up to two adults and a child. Also, the kayak includes three gear straps to allow you to secure the baggage without worrying about it slipping off.

You can use it either solo from the center seat or use it with all the seats installed. It includes carrying handles on the bow as well as the stern to help you and your friends carry it easily. Lastly, it comes with a lifetime warranty so, you can rest assured your investment is safe.

3: Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T 12ft Tandem Kayak

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The Vibe Kayaks SkipJack is perhaps the best tandem kayak when it comes to versatility and reliability. The high price range kayak is a little heavyweight at 72 lbs, however, the 500 lbs. weight almost makes up for it. This means that 2-3 people can easily use the kayak without worrying about overloading the boat.

The kayak can function as a fishing kayak as well as a touring kayak. So, whether you wish to go on a family fishing trip or want to look at the stars while camping out at the lake, you know where to look to! The Vibe Kayaks SkipJack comes with 2 capped fishing rod holders as well as 4 different mounting points for Scotty or RAM mount rod holders.

It makes it easier to keep an eye on all your lines at once. Furthermore, the kayak is equipped with multiple storage options. These include two sealed hatches which will keep your storage dry. The hatches also include 2 cup holders to allow for a safe storage option for smaller items.

For items that are too big such as a cooler or a backpack, the kayak includes a storage well that has a bungee system to secure your baggage. And it doesn’t end there! You can rest at ease by putting your paddles into the paddle parks. No more worrying about overboard paddles!

4 carrying handles stitched onto the four sides of the kayak help to make transport easier. Since the boat is a little heavy, the handles are almost a sigh of relief. The Vibe kayak also comes with various kayak accessories such as two kayak seats and kayak paddles. In fact, the Vibe kayak paddles are generally considered to be the best kayak paddles in the market.

4: Advanced Elements Convertible Inflatable Kayak

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When it comes to the best kayak for beginners, you can never go wrong with an inflatable kayak. The Advanced Elements Convertible Inflatable Kayak is beyond unique, to say the least. The kayak is 15 foot in length which in itself is a marvel. Moreover, it can be converted into three different styles.

The Advanced Frame uses built-in aluminum ribs to help give definition to the base of the kayak. This grants the kayak stability and durability. The top, however, is the real star! The open deck design of the kayak ensures you can easily enter or exit the kayak. However, if you wish to keep dry, you can add a Double Deck which is sold separately.

On the other hand, if you wish to travel solo, you can add the Single Deck Option as well. This grants you with a kind of versatility that’s never been seen before. Apart from the interchangeable decks, the kayak is quite lightweight as it weighs about 52 lbs. Yet, the tandem kayak weight limit is an astonishing 550 lbs.

To add to the durability, the material is triple layered to ensure no puncture occurs. Not only that, but the kayak is easy to store and carry as well. It can be folded up and carried in an included duffel bag. All you need to do is pump the air in and you’re good to go!

The padded adjustable seats ensure maximum comfort for hours on end. Moreover, the kayak hull with the chine in the center and the patented Drop Stitch technology ensure better tracking. Also included is a bungeed storage well. In the Single Deck Version, you also get an additional bungee well and a covered storage hatch while in the Double Deck Version, you only get a mesh pocket.

5: BKC UH-TK181 12-Foot 5-inch Sit on Top Tandem

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When it comes to the best kayak brands, it can’t get better than the Brooklyn Kayak Company. True to its brand name, the BKC UH-TK181 is a high price range kayak that is worth every penny. It is jam-packed with extensive features such as 7-rod holders. Three of these are adjustable holders while the other four are fixed. This makes it easier to get multiple lines in the water.

The 12-foot 5-inch kayak can hold up to 2 people. Also included are two waterproof storage hatches that will help you keep your crucial devices dry such as wallet, electronic devices etcetera. If you’re in the mood for storing larger cargo, the rear side has a cargo area where you can secure all your baggage using a bungee rope.

To help you free up your hands for fishing or other tasks, the kayak comes with two paddle rests. You can easily secure your paddles without worrying about them falling out. Worried about dragging such a large boat around? The kayak comes with handles which makes it easier to transport from one place to the other.

Also included is a 34-inch beam which helps you gain better stability and tracking. The ultimate balance means you can even stand to cast all your lines. Moreover, it comes with adjustable seats as well to help you feel the utmost comfort while out in the sun.

For added comfort, the kayak comes with overlapping foot wells to help you brace your feet during paddling. Furthermore, any water that splashes into the boat can be easily drained out through the 8 different scupper holes.

6: Perception Kayak Pescador 13.0

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If you’re looking for a more affordable option, then the Perception Kayak Pescador 13.0 is the best kayak under 600. The boat features unmatched stability and tracking to allow paddlers to take advantage of the premium design of the kayak.

The Pescador is perfect for a team of two people who want to fish or just enjoy a day out at the lake. What’s unique about this boat is that it is a one-piece construction and so is extremely leak proof. Furthermore, the kayak includes the patented Comfort Seating System. It features back-friendly seats that you can adjust according to your comfort preferences.

It includes molded footwells that can easily accommodate users of all sizes. The 13-foot kayak also features a special kid seat which can easily accommodate kids. When it comes to storage options, none can beat the Pescador. It features two different storage hatches that will keep all your essentials dry.

Moreover, there are two storage wells at the bow and stern. These have a bungee tie-down system that allows you to secure any larger equipment. If you thought that comfort or storage was the defining feat of the kayak, you’re surely mistaken.

The Pescador is unmatched when it comes to durability. The construction includes High-Density Polyethylene which is resistant to all sorts of wear and tear. Also, it is resistant to UV light so the colors and the graphics will never fade away.

The kayak molding includes leading processes to ensure the best construction in the market. Lastly, it might be a bit heavy, but it is definitely portable due to multiple handles. The paddle holders are yet other remarkable features that make this the best kayak for the money.

7: SUNDOLPHIN Sun Dolphin Bali 13.5-Foot Tandem Kayak

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It’s quite impossible to miss the SunDolphin when it comes to the best kayak brands. The Sun Dolphin Bali kayak is an exceptional piece of construction that is as durable as it is comfortable. This 13.5-foot kayak can easily accommodate 1, 2, or even 3 persons.

This is because you can easily position the seats. If you wish to ride the tandem solo, you can easily do so by placing a seat at the center. The boat might belong, however, it is nimble enough that a single person can maneuver it without hassles.

Also included are three waterproof storage hatches that will keep all your electronics and other items dry. This feature is quite crucial when it comes to sitting on top kayaks since they tend to get very wet. But, that’s not all! The boat also features storage well at the rear with shock cord rigging to help keep larger storage secure.

Moreover, the seats include thin padding, however, you can fully adjust them. So, you can pick them according to your liking. For ultimate comfort, the boat features adjustable footrests which you can slide to accommodate your size.

The tandem does tend to be a little heavy at 70 lbs. However, the two handles at the side, as well as the two T-handles at the bow and stern, make it easier to drag it out into the water. What’s more, is that the kayak includes an HDPE construction which features UV protection. This protects the boat from all kinds of dents and scratches. It also makes it perfect for braving the rough seas.

Lastly, this kayak is all about durability! The tandem kayak has a hull which is well constructed to cut through water quickly. The hull depth is 17 inches and leads to an upraised bow area. As a result, the boat does not need skirting to protect you from water splashes!

8: Lifetime Beacon 12 foot Tandem Kayak

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The Lifetime Beacon is yet another affordable option. In fact, it is one of the best kayaks under 600. But, don’t be fooled by the low price range! The Lifetime Beacon Tandem Kayak still packs a punch. The beast is specifically designed to cut through the water like a hot knife through butter.

Featured in the kayak is a skeg wheel which makes it easy for you to track! This is especially important if you’re looking for a tandem fishing kayak that is stable. Speaking of stability, the Lifetime Beacon has excellent secondary stability which makes it easier to get on and off the kayak. It further provides you stability when you’re stationary while fishing.

The kayak comes with two ultra-lite seats. These include padded backs which can you can adjust for maximum comfort. Moreover, the kayak comes with molded-in footwells so you can easily brace your feet while paddling.

The 12 foot tandem kayak is perfect for 2 people, however, unlike some of the others, it cannot be used solo. Thus, we recommend you only buy it if you want to use it with a partner. To help you get peace of mind while fishing, the kayak comes with paddle rests so you can secure them easily.

The kayak also includes two storage hatches to help you store your essentials. Apart from that, there is a rear tank well which has a net lace at the top. This allows you to secure your storage. This is especially important for open hull kayaks where your storage can easily slip away.

The HDPE construction ensures high-quality durability. That, when combined with a 5-year limited warranty, ensures you can use the kayak for a long time!

9: Lifetime 10 Foot, Two Person Tandem Sit-on Kayak

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If you feel like the other tandem kayaks were a bit too long, then perhaps you’ll fancy the Lifetime 10-foot kayak. The small kayak size ensures a lighter weight at about 60 lbs. This makes it easier to carry and maneuver, even by a single person. However, don’t be fooled into thinking it can’t support you!

The kayak is actually designed for 2 persons and can actually sustain about 500 lbs of weight. You can even use it solo on days you feel like switching off from the rest of the world. What’s unique about this tandem kayak is that the seating is actually higher than the kayak floor. This helps you keep dry from the water splashing or flooding inside or near the hull.

Speaking of the hull, this kayak features a tunnel hull design which allows for better stability and tracking. So, you never have to worry about the kayak tipping over! Also included are 2 soft backrests that allow for the ultimate comfort.

To add to the comfort, this kayak further includes molded footrests that allow folks of all heights to easily find their match. Lifetime is quite popular for making some of the best kayak accessories. So, you should consider yourself lucky that they have included 2 sports paddles with the kayak at no additional charges.

In addition, these paddles are double-sided so you can easily use them without worrying about changing sides. The bow and stern also included molded handles which make it easier to carry it out to the sea. Also, there is a small bungee option as well as a couple of open hatches.

However, you need to add your own lids or pouches into them if you wish for waterproof storage. To top it all off, the kayak comes with a 5-year limited warranty to help you secure your investment.

What Tandem Kayak Fits You?

As we already mentioned, there are a wide variety of tandem fishing kayaks out in the market with features of their own. When choosing one, these are the most important characteristics you should look for:

Size:

The very first thing you need to pay attention to is the size of the tandem kayak. Ensure it is long enough to comfortably accommodate all two or three of you! Otherwise, you might be stuck with less legroom.

However, ensure that the kayak is not too long as it can often make it difficult for you to maneuver it when riding solo.

Weight Capacity:

The tandem kayak weight limit is another crucial factor. You need to make sure that the kayak can support both of your weight plus the weight of the equipment you’ll be bringing on. Thus, we recommend that the kayak’s limit should have at least a 50 lb. clearance above your combined weights.

You should also note that most kayaks with higher weight capacity come with higher weights. So, ensure that the weight is enough to support you but also allows solo use of the kayak.

Comfort:

When you’re paddling with another person for hours on end, comfort is essential. We recommend going for kayaks with padded or cushioned seats along with multiple or adjustable footrests. Also, ensure that there is plenty of legroom for two or three people.

Gear Storage:

Needless to say, when two people are using the tandem kayak, there should be room for more storage. The storage options come in various flavors including bungeed-storage wells as well as waterproof hatches. We recommend you go for a kayak that has more storage options. Also, if the tandem kayak is a sit-on-top option, then we recommend looking or more hatches.

Stability:

When two people paddle a boat, they might do so at different paces and different styles. Sometimes, it can lead to an unstable boat that can topple over. So, stability is quite necessary, unless you want to end up in the water.

Secondary stability is also essential, especially if you’re using your boat as a tandem fishing kayak. This allows you to be stable when the boat is not moving. So, you can even stand up to throw in a line.

Conclusion: