10 Best 2-Person Inflatable Kayaks To Buy In 2024
Which Inflatable Kayak 2 Person Is best?
Enjoying some quality time in nature can be done in so many ways. One of the most comforting things is spending it on the water, paddling.
Kayaks are great vessels for doing this but tandem ones can be quite difficult to handle in terms of portability and storage.
Many kayakers who love to partner with one another on the water now turn to find solutions to the heaviness and excess space-occupation of these kayak types that make their adventures challenging. Fortunately, there’s a reliable solution to this problem: two-person inflatable kayaks.
1. Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak
Features
- Inflated size: 10’3″ × 3′ ×1’8″
- Approximate Packed Size: 22″ × 11″ × 15″
- Inflation Time: 10-15 minutes
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
- Self-Weight: 30.6 pounds
- S. Coast Guard I.D. – NMMA Certified
- TUV approved
Intex has proven to be one of the leading inflatable kayak manufacturers with a series of great features that accompany its products. Here’s another one that is suitable for low-profile cruising on mild rivers and slow-moving lakes- The Explorer K2.
It is among the most affordable on the market and comes with sleek yellow graphics color for smart visibility when the sun is down.
Moreover, it is a great 2-person inflatable kayak option with a tough PVC design that guards against sudden impacts by rocks and plants, a grab line extending along your kayak’s outside perimeter for emergency grip, a streamlined design for easy paddling, and an inflatable I-beam PVC floor for added rigidity.
That’s not all, there’s a detachable skeg for increased tracking, and two inflatable seats that you can adjust or remove one from to give room for better comfort in the cockpit. In addition, the Intex Explorer K2 comes with a repair kit, a high-pressure pump, two paddles, and a carry bag for easy transport.
If you’re a kayaker who prefers to cruise on smaller water bodies like ponds and lakes, stress no more, this might be a good option for you.
2. Intex Excursion Pro K2 Kayak
Features
- Inflated size: 12’7″ × 37″ × 18″
- Approximate Packed Size: 30″ × 20 × 16″
- Inflation Time: 4 to 8 minutes
- Self-Weight: 39.01 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
- S. Coast Guard I.D. – NMMA Certified
- TUV approved
The Excursion Pro also comes with two removable skegs that will aid in your efforts to keep this kayak tracking straight. The shorter skeg is better for shallow water and the longer option is best for deep water paddling.
Inflatable kayaks are a source of utmost comfort and fun, and among the 2-person types, The Intex Excursion Pro ranks top. Constructed using a 3-ply high molecular polyvinyl material that is tough enough to resist water, salt, oil, and gasoline.
That’s not all, this inflatable kayak is also resistant to sunlight, mechanical impact, and abrasion while retaining its lightweight, portability, and compactness. All these in addition to an inflatable I-beam floor that provides ultimate rigidity.
You and your partner will have a comfortable inflatable seat with better posture while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Also included in this model are two inflatable seats with backrest supports for comfort. You can choose to remove the seats, reset one seat centrally, and paddle on if you’re out on solo kayaking.
What’s more, The Intex Pro comes with a detachable skeg for tracking stability, high-pressure spring-loaded valves on either side for easy deflating and inflating, and a plethora of D-rings and grab handles for easy attachment of extra bags and gear.
Furthermore, the product features a repair patch kit, a grab handle and a grab line at each end, a USCG ID, an Intex high-pressure pump, and two 86-inch aluminum paddles for easy steering.
3. Sea Eagle 370 Pro Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak
Features
- Inflation Time: About 8 minutes
- Inflated Size: 12’6″ × 34″ × 15″
- Approximate Packed Size: 31” x 19” x 8”
- Weight: 32 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 650 pounds
- S. Coast Guard I.D. – NMMA Certified
- TUV approved
The great Sea Eagle 370 Pro features two inflatable seats that you can easily adjust to handle one more-particularly small- occupant. It will not disappoint whenever you and your wife plan on taking your little child or dog along with you to the water to kayak.
With a self-weight of just 32 pounds, the Sea Eagle 370 Inflatable Kayak combines extreme lightweight and portability with utmost durability, versatility, and stability.
You’ll be amazed that the light weight of this product does not hinder its strength in any way as it can support up to a weight capacity of 650 pounds- an approximate weight of three adults. But to acquire the best efficiency during usage, the space is best used to accommodate two adults.
Also included in the Sea Eagle 370 is a manual foot pump, a carry bag, dual collapsible paddles, a drain valve for quick water removal, and a built-in skeg for better directional tracking.
Moreover, the Sea Eagle’s 370 is rated class III whitewater, it is designed and endorsed to withstand rapids with moderate, irregular water waves.
4. Sea Eagle 330 Pro 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
Features
- Inflation Time: 6 minutes
- Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
- Self-Weight: 26 pounds
- Inflated Size: 11’2″ × 34 × 15″
- Approximate Packed Size: 24″ × 16″ × 7″
- S. Coast Guard I.D. – NMMA Certified
- TUV approved
The Sea Eagle’s 330 Pro is another great option to enjoy paddling with your partner. Like its compatriot, the 370 Pro, it is compact, has little inflation and deflation times, and takes up little space in your vehicle trunk or your home storage space.
It has an inflatable I-beam floor for added stability and comfort in the cockpit, a welded seam with high frequency, and a tough design that holds up against sudden impacts from rocks and sticks that pose puncture threats to some other inflatables.
What’s more, the Sea Eagle 330 is also rated to handle class I whitewater, and it features integrated skegs for improved directional stability. It also comes with two inflatable seats that you can adjust to provide maximum comfort and paddling space for you and your partner.
This model also comes with all other features that you will find in the 370 Pro such as two collapsible paddles, a drain valve for quick removal of water, a storage bag, and a manual foot pump.
5. Advanced Elements Island Voyage
Features
- Inflation Time: About 8 minutes
- Inflated Size: 11’2″ × 37″
- Approximate Packed Size: 31” x 18” x 10”
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
- Self-Weight: 31.5 pounds
- S. Coast Guard I.D. – NMMA Certified
- TUV approved
The Island Voyage 2 by Advanced Elements is a unique 2-person inflatable kayak with many amazing features that make it a perfect option for the topmost fun on the water.
Constructed using a tough, multilayered PVC tarpaulin shell with a piece of 600-denier polyester fabric for improved resistance against puncture and abrasion threats.
Anytime you’re planning on going on a trip, the quality recreational Voyage 2 is ever ready for you. Whether your paddling is on the lakes, rivers, or coastal waterways.
What’s more, it has a streamlined design, and a better-pointed bow than some other inflatable kayak options, which allows it to quickly cut through the moving water with the littlest drag.
In addition, this kayak provides three adjustable seat-position options to choose from according to your comfortability preference.
Other features that accompany this unique recreational inflatable kayak include, a detachable skeg, backrest supports with bottle holders, and a drain plug to remove any form of water that finds its way into the vessel.
6. Driftsun Rover 220 Inflatable Kayak 2-Person
Features
- Inflation Time: 9 minutes
- Inflated Size: 12’6″ × 38″ × 13″
- Approximate Packed Size: 24.5” x 21” x 10”
- Weight Capacity: 600 pounds
- Self-Weight: 28 pounds
- S. Coast Guard I.D. – NMMA Certified
- TUV approved
The Driftsun Rover 220 is one of the true 2-person inflatable kayaks that can efficiently handle whitewater kayaking. With a drop-stitch floor similar to a paddleboard, a floor, and side tubes that inflate up to 6PSI and 3 PSI respectively, this model stands among the most durable options out there.
The model’s rocker profile gives great stability and has a detachable skeg for improved tracking. Moreover, to be able to supply the required high-pressure inflation for the kayak, there’s an inclusion of a high-pressure pump with a pressure gauge for accurate monitoring.
You will also find up to 8 safety ports and more than enough secure points to keep your gear.
7. Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-person inflatable fishing kayak
Features
- Inflation Time: 7-10 minutes
- Inflated Size: 10’9″ × 39
- Approximate Packed Size: 39″ × 39″ × 23″
- Weight Capacity: 470 pounds
- Self-Weight: 41 pounds
- S. Coast Guard I.D. – NMMA Certified
- TUV approved
The construction of the Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-person inflatable kayak is one of the toughest out there with multilayered chambers that keep you afloat even if one of them is compromised.
It is made with an 18-gauge PVC and wrapped in a puncture-proof 840-denier nylon material cover that guards against accidental droppings of fishing hooks between casts.
The bottom is also made with a tough 100-denier tarpaulin that is tough enough to withstand rough waters and punctures due to occasional impacts of rock and sticks.
This fishing inflatable kayak is a unique type with several pocket storage for fishing accessories, easy-to-use rod holders, and a Sevylor trolling motor addition to the stern for the expansion of the fishing range.
8. AIRE Lynx II 2-person Inflatable Kayak
Features
- Inflation Time:
- Inflated Size: 12’6″ × 39″
- Approximate Packed Size:
- Weight Capacity: 475 pounds
- Self-Weight: 24/27 PSY
- Warranty: 10 years
- S. Coast Guard I.D. – NMMA Certified
- TUV approved
The AIRE Lynx 2-person Inflatable kayak is special with impressive stability and tracking capacity. A good fit for kayakers who enjoy running through water tides and eddy lines.
The kayak’s versatile design allows for easy conversation in either solo paddling or tandem paddling. With a multilayer shell design and a tough bottom design of 1,100-denier material, the kayak can withstand occasional impacts against logs and rocks.
It also offers comfortable seats with backrest supports and a pocket at the back for extra storage. The side tubes on the lower profile and its flat shell design make it easy for you and your partner to navigate rapid turns and maneuver in tight spaces.
What’s more, you can also get to store your camping safely, thanks to its 17 sets of cargo loops. That’s not all, the AIRE Lynx comes with a manufacturer’s “no damage” warranty of 10 years! Isn’t that amazing?
9. AQUAGLIDE Chinook 100 Inflatable Kayak
Features
- Inflation Time: 5 minutes
- Inflated Size: 10′ × 36″ × 13.5″
- Approximate Packed Size: 24.5” x 22.5” x 13.5”
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
- Self-Weight: 23 pounds
- S. Coast Guard I.D. – NMMA Certified
- TUV approved
If you’re looking for a kayak that is not only strong but versatile, think about the AQUAGLIDE Chinook 100. It doubles seamlessly as a tandem and solo kayak for short kayaking adventures on slow-moving waters.
Made with a durable PVC material, it can withstand measurable impacts. It also possesses a skeg for better tracking ability. The presence of footrests in the cockpit gives you and your partner access to a more convenient trip. Moreso, you will find included in this model, a repair kit and two SEATS.
That’s not all, there’s storage space at the stern of the kayak for keeping extra dry, small gear, and bags. You will also find webbing sections that provide security for other waterproof items.
10. Aquaglide Blackfoot Hb Angler Kayak
Features
- Length: 16′ 4″ / 498 cm
- Width: 38″ / 96.5 cm
- Weight: 50 lb / 18.2 kg
- Capacity: 800 lb / 363 kg
- Primary Material: PVC
- Self-Bailing: Yes
- Rigging: Deck Rigging, Accessory Plates, Rod Holder(s), Cup Holder, Carry Handles
This inflatable kayak stands as one of the most sophisticated angling kayaks for anglers. It’s 16 foot long and fitted with quite a bit of mounting and storage space.
What is A 2-person inflatable Kayak?
Inflatable kayaks function just like every other kayak but there are differences in that, unlike traditional models, they are more affordable. Additionally, they’re found to be lightweight and portable and compactly fold into small sizes for easy transport and storage.
They’re also more comfortable and stable than the hardshell models and so are suitable for use for beginner and skillful paddlers alike. However, many kayakers go for kayak renting which mostly cut their enjoyment time and incurs a lot of costs for them.
To get the maximum convenience and paddling space that you need, we recommend that you buy your 2-person inflatable kayak so that you can go enjoy the beautiful nature has for you on the water, anytime, any day, without thinking of returning the vessel or renewing your rent.
You will find below our review of the best 2-person inflatable kayaks currently available on the market. Our review is to help you select the option that best suits your adventures. But first, let’s look at some features you need to look out for.
2-Person Inflatable Kayak Buying Guide
Selecting a 2-person inflatable kayak over a traditional option can be difficult. To choose the right one for you among the many options, here are a few features to consider.
Dimensions
The first factor to consider in a 2-person inflatable kayak is its dimensions. Dimensions are important because as the owner, your size has to fit conveniently into the vessel.
For kayakers with big sizes, we recommend getting a kayak with larger cockpits and longer cockpits for tall kayakers so they can have enough room for their legs.
Kayak designs with large widths tend to come with better stability when compared with narrower models that offer a higher level of speed and efficiency.
Besides stability, tracking, speed, and maneuverability, there are other things to look into while considering dimensions. If you’re a beginner kayaker, we recommend that you go for dimensional features that will ensure your safety first, like high stability and easy maneuverability.
Handling a kayak with a large width and small length will be easier to do with your partner than with a narrower one. However, if you’re a kayaker who’s got a knack for the whole water actions, speed and efficiency can be considered as or above other factors.
Inflation Time
Any new inflatable kayak user might want to give up on their trip as soon as they get to the shore due to the long period it takes to prepare their vessel for use.
While this challenge is not experienced with their hardshell counterparts, inflatable kayaks are still a preferred choice because of their easy storage and transport.
That’s by the way, in general, some inflatable kayaks will take a longer time to fill up than others. Those that are recommended for higher pressure usually take a longer time.
To help reduce the time of waiting, manufacturers include dual-action pumps, as a package option for their model, that helps you inflate faster than a weaker one would.
To be able to identify the option that will save you the most time, we have included in our reviews, the average inflation time required for each 2-person inflatable kayak model.
While your pump fires on and your vessel pumps up, you can simply use the time to make other preparations, so you can set out in no time at all.
Rigidity
Another important factor to consider is the rigidity of the inflatable kayak which is a result of the amount of air you’re able to fill into it. The best 2-person inflatable kayaks come with sturdy designs that won’t fail when filled with pressured air.
However you will find those that inflate only to a small PSI weaker than those capable enough to support higher pressure.
Our review contains sturdy inflatables with air pressure ranging from 8 to 10 PSI, a feature you will find commonly in the best 2-person inflatable kayaks.
You will also find on our list 2-person inflatables featuring multi-chamber designs. Those whose floor chambers have higher pressure than the side tubes tend to be more rigid than those with uniform air pressure.
Durability
This feature is arguably the most important factor to consider. It is what every other revolves around. The durability of an inflatable kayak explains how many external impacts it can handle as well as how long it will last under such impacts.
This feature is dependent on the material of construction. Tripple-layered PVCs are better durable materials for inflatable kayaks than just any PVC single-layered.
In addition, welded seams are a design feature to look for when it comes to finding a durable inflatable kayak. The good news is that many of the more expensive models are made with similar construction to what you would find on a whitewater raft or inflatable whitewater kayak.
That means they are designed to handle bumps against rocks and other sharp objects in fast-moving rivers. It could still behoove you to cut your dog’s nails if you plan on kayaking with a dog on board, but the most durable inflatable kayaks can handle your furry paddle companion.
Packed Size
Inflatable kayaks are mostly preferred among many kayakers because of their compactness, portability, and ease of packing to fit into the back of vehicles. And when they’re stored, they take just a little space compared with what other rigid kayaks will take.
The compactness of 2-person inflatable kayaks varies depending on the design and so you must pay attention to it. Although the difference isn’t much but knowing the packed size of your kayak will allow you to know if it will fit into your trunk or allow you to prepare for other space if it doesn’t fit.
Removable Skegs (tracking fins)
One of the difficult parts of an inflatable kayak for manufacturers to design is the shell of their vessel. In a bid to escape this, many of them create flat, simple designs that do not produce adequate track when you paddle.
Many inflatable kayakers often complain about this because inflatable kayaks tend to excessively react to paddle strokes and move where you don’t intend for them to go.
However, to beat this problem, smart manufacturers include a detachable skeg. This skeg, like a rudder, is made to draw out, down into the water beneath the vessel.
The function of the skeg is similar to that of the fin in a surfboard in that it makes your kayak easier for it to go straight.
Not all inflatable kayaks come with a tracking fin. Some low-end models don’t- meaning they’re not designed for long paddling time. But they can be useful if you’re not interested in going too far from offshore for an exciting day.
Although some experienced kayakers who’ve gotten the knack of inflatable kayaks may not need skegs this takes long years of practice and cautions.
But if you’re not a professional, and what you’re looking for is a 2-person inflatable kayak that can take you far away without stress, we recommend that you choose a model with a detachable skeg.
You will find some high-end models with two tracking fins of different sizes. They’re like that so that you can switch them depending on where you’re paddling. The smaller size is meant for shallow waters while the bigger one, is for deep water.
Additional Gear and Accessories
Inflatable kayaks are not all you need for a memorable experience on a kayaking trip. Many manufacturers understand this and therefore equip their models with additional accessories to make your kayaking experience a successful one.
Unfortunately, not all models come with this equipment, so you should put that into consideration. Because if you don’t, and you select a product that doesn’t come with all necessary kayaking accessories, you will have to purchase them separately- which translates to excess money and time.
If your choice comes with all the needed gear then you’re many steps closer to going for your next adventure without hassle. You may notice that a particular model with all the necessary tools and equipment comes at a slightly higher price than one that doesn’t.
That is fine. You can buy it. Because that will save you from spending extra money buying the accessories separately, in the long run
Additional Accessories:
Electric Pump
Electric pumps are a great addition to inflatable kayaks as they make the setting up of your device quick so you can set out on your adventure in no time at all.
Some quality ones can fill several inflatable kayaks without overheating. Although they are usually on the high side of the price they’re worth it.
Double-action manual pumps for inflatables
Manual pumps can come as either foot pumps or hand pumps. And they can come as package options with inflatables. We recommend that you buy an inflatable kayak that comes with one to avoid having to purchase it separately.
Manual pumps may be slower than electric ones but they come at lower prices, and some fill up your inflatable kayak in less than 10 minutes!
Cost
In addition to space, stability, and convenience, another important feature to look into is cost. Without a doubt, when it comes to cost, inflatable kayaks are on the winning side compared to hard shells.
But when you purchase an inflatable that doesn’t come with all the accessories, you may be tempted to buy them. While it’ll be good to buy them all if you can afford them, it will be safer for your pocket to buy the necessary ones, and do away with the others.
For instance, you do not have to purchase a kayak storage rack or cart because your 2-person already folds compactly and fits into a storage bag.
Another way to look at it is that since it’s a general rule of thumb that higher quality products often come at higher prices, then expect to spend money if what you want is the same. 2-person inflatable kayaks have a price range of about $150 on the low end and $1500 on the high-end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are inflatable kayaks safe?
The simplest and most direct answer is “Yes”. All the inflatable kayaks on our list and the market are NMMA-certified.
The certification is to show that the kayaks are constructed to meet the standard safety requirements. To ensure the safety of users, a physical inspection is done every year on each model on sale on the market.
What water type are inflatable kayaks most suitable for?
Inflatable kayaks are suitable for most waterways, from class I-III. These classifications cover ponds, rivers, lakes, and seas.
We recommend, however, that you know the currents of the water you intend to kayak on before setting off. We recommend that you use your inflatable kayak where there are minimal debris and rocks to reduce the possibility of year and puncture.
