10 Best Kayak Cup Holders To Buy In 2024

What Kayak Drink Holder Is Best For Your Adventure?

The waterways are a perfect place to get beautiful experiences and a good touch of life found in enjoyable moments. Kayaking with great kayaks makes all of these become meaningful. 

And getting all the right accessories alongside even brings more fun. Of the many important accessories to crave on your next kayaking adventure, is the cupholder.

Having a good cupholder helps keep your drink very close to you, and also prevents it from spilling over to the waters while you’re on the move, kayaking.

Typically, the cupholder is included at the back of the kayak seat. However, some kayak brands place theirs on the front of the seat. 

Each brand has reasons for their designs; your safety is important, therefore, always ensure you don’t search for your drink cup while you’re paddling with one hand.

What Are Kayak Cup Holders And Why Are They Important To Kayakers?

The kayak cup holder is often a small metal protrusion or plastic you find mounted around your kayak’s cockpit area. Its basic function is to help hold your drink container firmly while you swerve in poise on water. 

It is compatible with containers such as soda cans and water bottles. They are a great additional feature because they help keep your beverage very close to you while you’re kayaking. 

Also, they help you avoid having to go all the way down to the shoreline from the middle of the waters to get refreshed and hydrated.

Moreso, they help to keep your content safe from spilling or pouring out into the water, especially when dealing with water waves. Furthermore, they’re interestingly useful in the storage of small but important objects like keys.

There are many options you can choose from, as they come in varying sizes and shapes. They also come in different brands and types, so it is important that you select the most suitable for your kayak. We strongly recommend that you get the ones that come from the manufacturer of your kayak.

What Materials Are Cup Holders For Kayaks Made From?

The kayaking experience, we can both agree, is a wild one. In a short while on the water, everywhere in your vessel can be wet, with water sloshing all around, and over you, if care is not taken.

Having your cupholder nearby can keep you refreshed and hydrated always. They also help to avoid loss of balance while trying to reach for water in your kayak.

However, cupholders come in different material types. They can be constructed from metal, plastic, or wooden material. Out of these three types, kayakers often go for plastic because they’re lightweight, tough, and safe for dishwashers. Moreso, they are cheaper than metal, although the latter lasts longer.

Not only are wooden cupholders aesthetically superior to other material types, but they are also very strong too. With proper care, they can serve for several years.

Our Top 10 Picks For Kayak Cup/Drink Holders

1. YakAttack MultiMount Kayak Cup Holder

The YakAttack MultiMount Kayak Cup Holder is an ideal solution to the problems of spillage encountered by kayakers on the water.

This piece of gear is an essential need for kayakers who like to stay refreshed on water. With its  GearTrac system, it attaches and fits into any type of kayak with little or no stress. Also, it can easily be mounted using the included bolts and screws.

Moreover, the YakAttack MultiMount is designed to be able to mount on any surface of your kayak. Made from durable materials, this piece holds up and remains sturdy even in the harshest of conditions, making it an exclusive option for kayakers.

Pros

• Installing the YakAttack MultiMount is easy thanks to its GearTrac system.
• It is a good way to keep your hands free while kayaking.
• Made of durable plastic material. It also has a grip made of rubber that helps hold the drink container in place.
• With a built-in bottle opener, it allows you to rehydrate anytime you want.
• It can support a weight of liquid up to 16 ounces.
• Suitable for both hot and cold drinks.

Cons

• Uninstallation poses to be difficult when there’s a need.
• Wrong positioning can block the kayaker’s view.
• Difficulties in removing your bottle or cup from the holder. This often happens when it is wet.

2. Scotty 311 Kayak Cup Holder

Scotty is popular for its amazing products like kayak accessories. The 311 Kayak cup holder is a big name among these products. 

This cup holder is a perfect choice for people who do not like to go through the stress of returning to the shoreline to get a refresher, or holding their drink container in their hands while kayaking. 

The holder is designed to bring convenience to kayakers when they’re very far from the shoreline. It can be easily installed. In just a few moments, you can have your holder mounted. Its durable plastic design and sturdy structure allow it to support liquid up to 12 ounces in weight. 

A built-in drainage system helps prevent spillage. With its built-in bottle opener, you can easily pop your drink open and get refreshed even in the middle of the water.

Pros

• Easy to mount onto the kayak.
• Secures bottles and cups
• Available in a variety of colors. You can also personalize it with your name and logo.
• The bottom is made of cork as a form of protection for the kayak.
• It is made with durable plastic material.
• It has a base that rotates around 360 degrees. This base makes your drink easily accessible.
• The Scotty 311 is of good quality yet, affordable.

Cons

• Difficulties in uninstalling from the kayak if you have to.
• Difficulties in keeping drink secure in the holder while kayaking
• The dimension is very small. It fits cups with 2.5 inches diameter or less. This implies that most of the bottles out there will not fit in the holder, a situation that may defy the very purpose of cup holders.

3. Scotty 310 Kayak Cup Holder

Here’s another great kayak accessory from Scotty. The Scotty 310 like its 311 counterparts can be easily attached and is compatible with most kayaks.

Its quick-release system allows you to remove and attach it without much effort. It comes with a strap that helps to keep your beverage container in place.

The Scotty 310 kayak cup holder comes with a built-in bottle opener and has room for two bottles or cups. In addition, its lightweight and compact design allows you to take it along with you wherever you go.

Lastly, the Scotty 310 is constructed using stainless steel and durable plastic which makes it worth your money. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pros

• The Scotty 310 is compatible with most kayaks.
• Installation and removal are easy
• Comes with a built-in leash that helps secure your beverage as you paddle along the waters.
• Has an included beverage opener
• Comes with an adjustable design that makes it accommodate a variety of bottle and cup sizes.
• Can hold up to two beverage cups or bottles

Cons

• No user-instructions manual comes with the product.
• A little imbalance in your kayak may cause the drink container to fall off the holder.
• Removal of your drink may be difficult, especially when you have wet hands.
• If not properly installed in the right position, the cup holder can interfere with your paddling.

4. Brocraft Kayak Cup Holder

The Brocraft Kayak Cup Holder is quite different in design from other aforementioned kayak cup holders. With a strong suction cup, the cup holder easily attaches to your kayak, and it can support a variety of cup and bottle sizes. 

The unique soft foam design helps prevent your beverage from getting wet and also helps maintain the stability of your kayak.

Furthermore, it has support for two bottles or cups at a go. Indeed, this is a perfect medium to not be too far from kayaking refreshments. 

With the security, the Brocraft kayak cup holder provides your drink, and staying hydrated and refreshed while enjoying time on the water is a reality.

Pros

• Installing the Brocraft kayak cup holder is an easy thing to do, as it doesn’t take much time.
• It is lightweight yet, sturdy.
• Comes with a 360-degree rotation, which allows you to set it however you want.
• It is adjustable. Meaning, you can place it in any position you want.
• The cup holder is easy to install and can be attached to most kayaks in just a few minutes.

Cons

• Installing the holder on some kayaks can pose difficulties
• Removing the cup holder from the kayak may also come with difficulties
• If not properly installed in the right position, the cup holder can interfere with your paddling.

5. Yakuzzi Kayak Cup Holder

The Yakuzzi kayak cup holder is designed to help elevate your kayaking experience to the next level. This cupholder secures your beverage within reach with no hassle, and its installation can be carried out in seconds.

Of stainless steel and durable plastic material construction, it is built to survive any type of weather and be used for a very long time. Whether you’re on a leisure cruise or you’re paddling through fast waters, this cup holder is a perfect choice for you.

Moreso, it can support a bottle or cup size up to 3 inches in diameter and has a hung cover to help keep your drink safe.

Pros

• The Yakuzzi kayak cup holder is designed using tough materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Easy to attach and use.
• It doesn’t take up much space.
• Attaches easily to any preferred spot on the kayak.
• Keeps your bottle or cup stable while paddling waters.
• It is easy to clean so that its primary function is ultimately achieved.
• The bottle opener inclusion makes it a great accessory choice for kayakers.

Cons

• It is not easily adjustable. The design gives no room to accommodate all types of cups and bottles. This means that, if your drink container doesn’t match the design, you won’t be able to use it.
• There are limitations to the container size it can hold.
• The cupholder can cause obstruction or interfere with your paddling while steering your kayak.

6. Sunchaser Kayak Cup Holder

There are a number of great features that make the Sunchaser Kayak cup holder a perfect choice for any kayaker. First, is the design: it is made from a tough plastic material that makes it last very long in use.

Also, with two suction cups, you can easily attach them to any part of your kayak. Furthermore, it can accommodate a beverage bottle or two cups and comes with a built-in space for the storage of your fishing rod.

It is indeed a great way to secure your beverage and fishing rod close to you, making kayaking convenient and enjoyable.

Pros

• Made from durable plastic, the Sunchaser is sure to last for years.
• Easy to install- with two screws fastening it to your kayak.
• It is adjustable. It can accommodate any cup or bottle size, in any kayak.
• It can support up to 16 oz of beverage.

Cons

• Removing cups can be difficult, especially when you have a wet hand.
• The wrong positioning of the bottle or cup can make your drink spill.
• If not installed, the cup holder can block your vision and interfere with paddling.

7. Kemimoto Kayak Cup Holder

Getting hydrated while in kayaking action has never been more fun with the Kemimoto kayak cup holder. For kayakers who like to enjoy every moment, this is a great addition to their kayaking gear collection.

The Kemimoto holder fixes firmly on your kayak with the help of a Velcro strap and can support most drink containers such as bottles, cans, and cups. It keeps your drink easily accessible and your cockpit organized.

Pros

• Easy to install with a Velcro strap.
• With its built-in straps, it can be installed on any kayak.
• It is of lightweight plastic construction and, therefore, easy to carry about.
• Can support cans, bottles, and cups with liquid weight up to 15 ounces.
• Can support a can, cup, or bottle of diameter up to 3.5 inches.

Cons

• The Kemimoto holder can pose difficulty when being installed on some kayaks.
• It can interfere with paddling when not installed properly.
• If not installed properly, and firmly, it can become unstable and spill the drink.

8. SkiffDaddy Kayak Cup Holder

With the SkiffDaddy, you won’t need to worry about how and where to secure your beverage when going on a water cruise as a kayaker. This cup holder is uniquely designed to satisfy all your needs. 

Just in a matter of seconds, it can be installed on your kayak. It firmly holds your drink in place and supports all types of kayak.

Made from tough and durable plastic, the SkiffDaddy can withstand any environmental condition, even the fastest-moving waters. It is indeed a great choice to keep yourself hydrated and refreshed while kayaking, without the need to stop paddling.

 Pros

• It comes with a built-in lash that attaches to the deck rigging of your kayak.
• Easy to install and use.
• It holds the beverage container firmly.
• It is made from durable plastic that is resistant to rust and corrosion.
• It has an adjustable design that allows it to accommodate most cans, bottles, and cups.
• It features a portable depository bag that is easy for you to carry about, even on your next adventure.
• It comes with a standing warranty.

Cons

• The SkiffDaddy kayak holder is only fit for installation at the front of the kayak. This makes it incompatible with other models.
• Removing the cup or bottle once inserted into the cup holder proves difficult.
• The stability of the drink container fails while on the ground.
• No lid comes with the cup holder, so your beverage can easily tip over.
• The cup holder can block your view while you’re paddling.

9. Toadfish Teal Non-Tipping Suction Surfing Kayak Cup Holder

The Toadfish surfing kayak cup holder is specially designed to help protect your beverage from tipping and pouring during paddling. 

It attaches to kayaks with a suction cup that keeps firm without slipping even in the toughest water waves. The teal finish makes it look great for anyone to love.

Made from durable plastic material, the Toadfish teal can support liquid up to 16 oz in weight, making it a perfect rehydration choice for extensive kayaking trips.

Pros

• The Toadfish teal surfing kayak provides non-slipping stability to your drink container.
• It is made from a durable plastic material, so you don’t have to worry about corrosion or rust.
• It is very easy to install and use.
• Comes with a quick-release system that allows for easy removal when there’s a need.

Cons

• Mounting the cup holder to the kayak can be difficult.
• Difficulties occur in keeping the holder in place during kayaking.
• If not installed properly, the holder can tip over.
• The holder isn’t very compatible with tall mugs and cups.

10. Amphibian Outdoor Kayak Cup Holder

The addition of an Amphibian Outdoor Cup holder to your kayaking gear will make your next adventure very enjoyable, providing you with the pleasure of hydrating and refreshing yourself.

The holder easily attaches to your kayak with two suction cups and also helps to keep your drink close and safe while you’re kayaking.

Made of durable plastic material, the Amphibian Outdoor Cup holder is sturdy and lasts long so you don’t have to worry about rust and corrosion.

Moreso, it can accommodate any drink container size, and the hinged cover prevents your content from spilling over.

Pros

• The durable plastic material of the Amphibian Outdoor Cup holder ensures it lasts long in use.
• Easy to install.
• Easy to use, even without the need for a spray skirt.
• Comes with a built-in leash that attaches to your kayak’s gunwale, keeping your beverage close, and intact.
• Can support bottle or cup, with liquid weight up to 16 oz.
• Supports a 360-degree rotation to accommodate any drink container size.
• It has a bottle opener inclusion that allows you to open your bottle without the stress of going back to the shoreline.
• Comes with a strong hitch that makes it fit most kayaks.

Cons

• This holder is not easily adjustable.
• Doesn’t fit all types of kayaks.
• The plastic material can easily break if mishandled.
• Withdrawing the container during or after kayaking can be a little difficult.
• Positioning the holder in the wrong place can hinder your vision, and/or interfere with your paddling.

Other Worthy Mentions

1. Wilderness System Kayak Konsole Cup Holder

Another great cup holder to make our list is the Wilderness System kayak konsole cup holder. With its amazing features, this can be a great addition to your kayaking gear on your next adventure.

The Wilderness Konsole cup holder attaches easily to your kayak, holding your beverage container firmly in place while you’re kayaking.

The cup holder is made from durable plastic, so you don’t have to worry about damage due to corrosion or rust. Moreso, it is constructed to be suitable for most bottles, cans, and cup sizes. It indeed will be a great choice for your next trip.

Pros

• It is a good way to keep your hand free while kayaking
• Easy to install on any kayak type.
• Easy to remove when not in use.
• It doesn’t take up much space.
• There’s a rubber insertion in the cup holder to help secure the cup, can, or bottle in place.
• It is made from plastic material which is durable, so you don’t have to worry about corrosion.
• Comes with an adjustable feature that makes it fit different types of kayaks.

Cons

• When paddling through rough waters, it can be difficult to keep your items in the holder in place.
• Accessing the items you keep in the holder can often be challenging.
• When the installation is not properly done, the cup holder can interfere with your paddling.

2. Can-Panion Kayak Cup Holder

Last on our list is the Can-Panion kayak cup holder, albeit, it is not the least. This cup holder is a perfect choice for people who do not like to go through the stress of returning to the shoreline to get a refreshment, or holding their drink container in their hands while kayaking. 

The problem of inconvenience and having to go on breaks while enjoying moments on the water is what the Can-Panion has come to resolve.

The holder easily attaches to your kayak, holding it firm so you can paddle your kayak. Moreover, it is made of tough plastic material that can buck any rough water. It is also designed to fit all kayak types.

Furthermore, the Can-Panion comes with a built-in tow strap that makes the attachment easy, and it is adjustable to accommodate any cup or bottle size.

Pros

• Easy to install and use.
• Made of durable plastic material that makes it stand even the roughest of waters.
• Can be installed on any kayak type just in a few moments.
• Comes with a built-in leash that helps secure your beverage as you paddle along the waters.

Cons

• The Can-Panion kayak cup holder can become unstable, especially when going through tough waves, resulting in spillage.
• The wrong positioning of the holder can cause interference in your paddling.

Kayak Cup Holder Installation: Use and Care

In addition to the storage of drinks, beverages, and small, important, items, the kayak’s cupholder can be used to keep a paddle whenever you’re taking a break. You can take care of it by making sure it is kept clean every time so that its primary function is ultimately achieved.

As earlier mentioned, having a cupholder installed on your kayak makes your kayaking experience enjoyable. Cupholders can be installed in any location in your kayak, depending on your choice. Some are attached to the deck, while some are to the gunwales.

If you intend to carry out the installation on your own, you’d need to get some basic equipment and tools such as screws, drills, and screwdrivers. Before this, you’d have decided on where you want it installed. 

The best position is near the cockpit where your drink will be easily accessible. The side of your kayak is also a good place to install your cup holder. Below are a few steps to follow when installing a cup holder on your kayak:

Step 1: Measuring and Cutting of Cup Holder

The first of the steps is to create a measurement and mark out the approximate cup holder size and shape on a cardboard

Cut out the hole from the cardboard using a jigsaw. Ensure the hole is a bit larger than the size of your cupholder to accommodate space for future drilling and installation of the mounting hardware.

Note: Using a saw to cut out the hole from the cupholder will result in splinters, and may also cause difficulty in drilling holes.

Step 2: Drilling the cup holder holes

For this step, you’ll need an ½ inch drill bit or a step bit to drill holes through the cup holder. These are where the screws will go through.

You will want to make sure the holes you drill are evenly spaced for hardware, as this helps to ensure proper alignment during installation of the hardware later.

Step 3: Installing the Hardware

Take one of the cupholders and drive a screw into each of the holes you created earlier. After this, attach the hardware to your cupholder bottom.

Step 4: Inserting the brackets

Here we are, at the last step. With its size measured correctly, insert your bracket into the cupholder through the top, and then fasten it to your kayak with a bolt and nut.

There you have it! Your own cup holder in your very own kayak! There’s nothing else than to get hydrated while having fun!

Accessories

Cupholders also come with additional accessories like a wallet, key, or phone storage. Some can be placed at the front of the kayak or the back. The purpose is to keep other small, important, things you carry into your kayak safe.

Qualities To Look Out For When Choosing A Kayak Cup Holder

Many qualities stand as tests for a good kayak. A few of these qualities are discussed below:

Durability

A good cupholder should be able to withstand harsh environmental conditions and should be able to last longer in use.

Stability

The essence of a cup holder is to help secure your drink firmly while you enjoy the beauty of kayaking. A good cupholder, therefore, should be able to hold your drink in place without spilling.

Ergonomy

How easy is it to use? Is it easily accessible? How easy is it to clean?

These are important questions to ask when checking whether the cupholder is good or not. Also, a good cup holder should allow for easy attachment and removal, to be used when needed and stored when not in use.

Adjustability

It is important that a good cup holder be able to adjustably fit different cup and bottle sizes.