10 Best Tandem Kayaks To Buy In 2024

BKC-TK219-12.2-Tandem-Fishing-Kayak
Best Inflatable Kayak 🏆
ADVANCED ELEMENTS AE1007-R AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak, 15', Red
Best Hard-shell Kayak 🏆
BKC TK219 12.5-Foot Tandem 2 or 3 Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak w/Padded Seats and Paddles (Camo)
Best Budget 💰
Sea Eagle 370K Pro 3-Person Inflatable Outdoor Water Sports Kayak Canoe Boat with Paddles, Adjustable Seats, Foot Pump, and Carrying Bag, White
Runner Up 🥈
Sevylor Colorado 2-Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak, Complete with Paddle & Rod Holders, Adjustable Seats, and Carry Handle; Kayak Can Fit Trolling Motor
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible 2 Person Kayak
BKC TK219 12.2' Tandem Fishing Kayak
Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Tandem Kayak
Sevylor Coleman Colorado
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★
Specs and Essential Features
  • Best Suited For: Beginners/Day touring/Expedition touring
  • Material: PVC tarpaulin
  • Type: Sit In
  • Capacity: 550 lbs (249 kg)
  • Dimensions: 15' x 32”
Pros
  • It can be converted from solo to tandem and conversion can be done within seconds.
  • This kayak is a good option for flatwater and lakes.
  • It can resist any difficult weather conditions
  • Good tracking kayak and very durable in the water.
  • The paddle holders are located at the sides.
Cons
  • It is not a better option for heavier kayakers.
  • Much time is required for it to get dried.
  • When under-inflated, it will take on water.
Specs and Essential Features
  • Length: 12.2 ft
  • Material: Polyethylene
  • Paddles: 86 inches
  • Weight Capacity: 440 Pounds
  • Dimensions: 146 x 34 x 20 inches
Pros
  • Several baited lines are kept in the water at the same time when paddling, because of the built-in rod holders.
  • There is enough storage space for your valuables like keys, wallet, and a smartphone in the watertight hatch integrated into the boat.
  • The seats have memory foam padding and a supportive backrest.
Cons
  • This kayak is not easily afforded.
Specs and Essential Features
  • Length: 12 ft 6 inches
  • Width: 34 inches
  • Weight: 32 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 650 pounds
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Ideal for beginner kayakers
  • High weight capacity
Cons
  • Included paddles aren't great
Specs and Essential Features
  • Type: Sit In
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Material: 1000-Denier Tarpaulin, 840-Denier Nylon
  • Weight Capacity: 470 lbs.
  • Weight: 40.5 lbs
Pros
  • Boston Valve enables easy inflation and deflation.
  • The presence of built-in multiple air chambers ensures you don't end up in the water in case one gets punctured.
Cons
  • For tall paddlers, the low backrest doesn't suit them because they can have back strain.
Best Inflatable Kayak 🏆
ADVANCED ELEMENTS AE1007-R AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak, 15', Red
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible 2 Person Kayak
★★★★★
Specs and Essential Features
  • Best Suited For: Beginners/Day touring/Expedition touring
  • Material: PVC tarpaulin
  • Type: Sit In
  • Capacity: 550 lbs (249 kg)
  • Dimensions: 15' x 32”
Pros
  • It can be converted from solo to tandem and conversion can be done within seconds.
  • This kayak is a good option for flatwater and lakes.
  • It can resist any difficult weather conditions
  • Good tracking kayak and very durable in the water.
  • The paddle holders are located at the sides.
Cons
  • It is not a better option for heavier kayakers.
  • Much time is required for it to get dried.
  • When under-inflated, it will take on water.
Best Hard-shell Kayak 🏆
BKC TK219 12.5-Foot Tandem 2 or 3 Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak w/Padded Seats and Paddles (Camo)
BKC TK219 12.2' Tandem Fishing Kayak
★★★★★
Specs and Essential Features
  • Length: 12.2 ft
  • Material: Polyethylene
  • Paddles: 86 inches
  • Weight Capacity: 440 Pounds
  • Dimensions: 146 x 34 x 20 inches
Pros
  • Several baited lines are kept in the water at the same time when paddling, because of the built-in rod holders.
  • There is enough storage space for your valuables like keys, wallet, and a smartphone in the watertight hatch integrated into the boat.
  • The seats have memory foam padding and a supportive backrest.
Cons
  • This kayak is not easily afforded.
Best Budget 💰
Sea Eagle 370K Pro 3-Person Inflatable Outdoor Water Sports Kayak Canoe Boat with Paddles, Adjustable Seats, Foot Pump, and Carrying Bag, White
Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Tandem Kayak
★★★★★
Specs and Essential Features
  • Length: 12 ft 6 inches
  • Width: 34 inches
  • Weight: 32 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 650 pounds
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Ideal for beginner kayakers
  • High weight capacity
Cons
  • Included paddles aren't great
Runner Up 🥈
Sevylor Colorado 2-Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak, Complete with Paddle & Rod Holders, Adjustable Seats, and Carry Handle; Kayak Can Fit Trolling Motor
Sevylor Coleman Colorado
★★★★
Specs and Essential Features
  • Type: Sit In
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Material: 1000-Denier Tarpaulin, 840-Denier Nylon
  • Weight Capacity: 470 lbs.
  • Weight: 40.5 lbs
Pros
  • Boston Valve enables easy inflation and deflation.
  • The presence of built-in multiple air chambers ensures you don't end up in the water in case one gets punctured.
Cons
  • For tall paddlers, the low backrest doesn't suit them because they can have back strain.

Which 2-Person Kayak Should You Get?

Are you an angler or just looking to get on the water to have fun with your family and friends after a busy day? Tandem kayaks let you have twice the fun, thereby exploring nature in all its glory without incurring any harm.

Among many recreational activities and adventures, kayaking comes with an exciting experience especially when you are with your family or a friend.

This allows you to bond over a shared interest and also get to share the workload, which considerably improves the experience.

Whether it’s fishing or a tandem race you are preparing for, there is a need to purchase a high-quality tandem kayak with essential characteristics that provide a variety of functions that work properly on multiple aquatic terrains for both young and old.

To avoid any mishaps during kayaking there is a need to ask the following necessary questions.

  • What are the features to look for in a tandem kayak?
  • What is the seating capacity of the tandem kayak?
  • Can the tandem kayak accommodate a heavier person?
  • As a beginner, how can I paddle a tandem kayak?

Keep reading through to know the answers to the above questions and many more.

What Is A Tandem Kayak?

A kayak oftentimes has been mistaken for a canoe and according to the British definition of a kayak, it is a type of canoe.

Although both types are normally used for the same purposes they have their differences which include the positioning of the paddler and the number of blades of the paddle used.

Tandem as a word can be described as a group of two or more having one behind the other and working in close collaboration.

However, Tandem Kayaks is designed for two-person recreational transportation, accommodating two kayakers of any skill level and providing them with good maneuvering, stability, ample storage space, and comfort. In the case of a single/solo kayak, there is just enough space for only one paddler.

Our Pick of The Top 10 Best Tandem Kayaks On The Market

Just like every other kind of equipment, there are many types of Tandem kayaks suitable to meet different needs. Your choice of Kayak depends on the kind of goal you want to achieve.

Whether to catch some fish as an angler or paddle with your family and friends sitting in front of you after a busy day to ease out stress or even to explore the surroundings viewing nature in its glory, your kayak of choice will differ.

So to get a comprehensive idea of what kind of kayak you might need, keep on reading.

1. Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible 2-Person Kayak

Advanced-Elements-AdvancedFrame-Convertible-Kayak

The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame tandem inflatable kayak is a convertible fifteen-foot kayak that can be paddled solo or tandem. This kayak is the best choice for kayakers who want to go for an innovative and portable kayak adventure.

Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame tandem inflatable kayak has its build-up materials from high-quality PVC tarpaulin and is compatible with the BackBone flooring accessory and Drop-stitched flooring upgrade for rigid high-pressure floors.

The existence of an open deck design makes it easy to enter and exit the boat and also allows for the conversion of your Kayak from an open to a closed deck within a short period.

This is made possible with the use of an optional single deck that sports a series of d-rings with bungee deck lacing, arched deck riser aluminum stays, and a rear cargo hatch or double decks that have d-rings and a mesh pocket for enhanced gear storage.

Its design provides the Kayakers with a good level of comfortability, portability,  stability, and maneuverability during the kayaking experience.

Specs and Essential Features

  • Best Suited For: Beginners/Day touring/Expedition touring
  • Material: PVC tarpaulin
  • Type: Sit In
  • Capacity: 550 lbs (249 kg)
  • Dimensions: 15′ x 32”

Pros

  • It can be converted from solo to tandem and conversion can be done within seconds.
  • This kayak is a good option for flatwater and lakes.
  • It can resist any difficult weather conditions
  • Good tracking kayak and very durable in the water.
  • The paddle holders are located at the sides.

Cons

  • It is not a better option for heavier kayakers.
  • Much time is required for it to get dried.
  • When under-inflated, it will take on water.

2. Sevylor Coleman Colorado Inflatable 2-Man Kayak

Sevylor-Coleman-Colorado

As an angler, catching up with a friend and going on a fishing trip is made easy with the use of the Sevylor Coleman Colorado inflatable fishing kayak.

Not only will you have an exciting fishing experience, but you will also have a whole lot of fun thereby creating lasting memories.

Colorado, as one of the toughest fishing boats, is designed using the combination of two rigid materials—1000 Denierp Tarpaulin and 840D Nylon which makes the kayak durable enough to meet your desired needs even if one of the air chambers develops a hole.

Moreso, it comprises adjustable seats and a comfortable mesh storage space. The Berkley quick-set rod holders allow for the adjustment of the angle of your pole when your gut notifies you about the closeness of the fish to the hook.

Specs and Essential Features

  • Type: Sit In
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Material: 1000-Denier Tarpaulin, 840-Denier Nylon
  • Weight Capacity: 470 lbs.
  • Weight: 40.5 lbs

Pros

  • Boston Valve enables easy inflation and deflation.
  • The presence of built-in multiple air chambers ensures you don’t end up in the water in case one gets punctured.

Cons

  • For tall paddlers, the low backrest doesn’t suit them because they can have back strain.

3. BKC TK219 12.2′ Tandem Fishing Kayak

BKC-TK219-12.2-Tandem-Fishing-Kayak

This is a sit-on-top kayak developed by the Brooklyn Kayak Company. It is built from high-density Polyethylene that has UV protection so that it stays looking and feeling new for a longer time.

Your comfort when paddling is assured because the deck of the kayak comes with adjustable backrests for proper support of your back and average-sized padded seats.

Brooklyn Kayak Company comprises fully waterproof hatches and this implies that your properties are safe even when they come in contact with water.

Another essential feature is that of a large bungee cord storage space at the rear of the kayak and its many benefits for avid kayakers. Its 34 inches width helps for its stability in the water.

Specs And Essential Features

  • Material: Polyethylene
  • Length: 12.2 ft.
  • Paddles: 86 inches
  • Weight Capacity: 440 pounds
  • Dimensions: 146 x 34 x 20 inches

Pros

  • Several baited lines are kept in the water at the same time when paddling, because of the built-in rod holders.
  • There is enough storage space for your valuables like keys, wallet, and a smartphone in the watertight hatch integrated into the boat.
  • The seats have memory foam padding and a supportive backrest.

Cons

  • This kayak is not easily afforded.

4. Lifetime 10 Foot Fishing Tandem Kayak

lifetime-tandem-fishing-kayak

The Lifetime Sit-on-top Kayak is a recreational kayak for both solo and tandem use. Due to its height of about 500 pounds, it is capable of accommodating up to 3 people, making it great news for families with a child.

It is a kind of kayak that is perfect for all-around use, specifically for beginners, but for experienced kayakers, you’re likely to enjoy fishing while sitting on top of this kayak.

This kayak is built from high-density Polyethylene, the hull provides a good level of rigidness, stability, and a great level of tracking.

A lifetime tandem fishing kayak consists of all the needed features like a 6′ storage hatch, 3 fishing pole holders, 2 padded backrests, and 2 double-sided paddles.

It is necessary you know that it was designed for use in flat waters only. There are 3 molded seats in the kayak, which makes it possible for a third person (preferably small) to sit in the center, which is located between the bow and stern seating positions.

In addition, there’s a rod holder and alongside the paddle cradles, there’s a handy little cargo storage on the bow which can be used to hold your fishing gear.

Specs and Features

  • Type: Sit-on-top
  • Person Capacity: 2
  • Material: UV-Protected Polyethylene
  • Weight Capacity: 500 lbs.
  • Weight: 60 lbs.

Pros

  • It consists of Kayak paddles.
  • Adjustment to the footrests is according to the fisherman’s height.

Cons

  • Not ideal for 2 fishermen
  • It’s one of the heaviest fishing kayaks on the market.

5. Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Tandem Kayak

Sea-Eagle-370-3-Man-Inflatable-Sport-Kayak

This type of kayak is made from heavy-duty poly kr and is a very durable inflatable kayak. It comes packed with a pump, 2 inflatable seats, paddles, and a repair kit in case there is a need for repair.

It maneuvers well, even when used solo. It allows for a great experience no matter your skill level. During solo kayaking, the rest of the space is used to carry huge loads.

Specs and Features

  • Length: 12 ft 6 inches
  • Width: 34 inches
  • Weight: 32 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 650 pounds

Pros

Cons

  • Included paddles aren’t great

6. Wilderness Systems Pamlico 145T

Wilderness-Systems-Pamlico-145T

This sit-inside kayak is the type that can be paddled either solo or in tandem. It has a large 90-inch long cockpit which guarantees easy entering in and out of the watercraft.

It also comes with two Phase 3 AirPro seats that offer back support, full adjustability, and breathable padded mesh for added comfort. For a solo kayaker, you can slide the bow seat back to the center position to increase your control over the boat.

For additional performance, the Pamlico 145T is designed such that it can be easily maneuvered and it comes with a rudder. It is important to know that you’ll need to source your paddle, as this kayak doesn’t include one.

For your gear, the kayak has a dry storage hatch at the stern and bungee rigging at the bow. The experience is always great when kayaking on flat water.

Specs and Features

  • Length: 14 foot 6 inches
  • Width: 31 inches
  • Weight: 73 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 550 pounds

Pros

  • Large cockpit
  • Two adjustable seats
  • Rudder included
  • Storage compartment

Cons

  • Does not come with paddles

7. Old Town Dirigo Tandem Plus Kayak

Old-Town-Dirigo-Tandem-Plus-Kayak

For a faster pace over the water, Old Town Dirigo Tandem Plus can be a good option. Its improved speed is related to the fact that it is a 15-foot 3-inch yak that is relatively narrow and underneath it 30 inches wide. These features make it ideal for longer paddling sessions or a multi-day kayaking trip.

As a sit-inside tandem kayak, it has enough space for your gear to accommodate many of your valuables. The rear cockpit out of the two spacious cockpits is almost 50 inches long, with a removable middle jump seat for a third person.

It has a deck bungee at the bow and stern for securing additional cargo and both paddlers have access to cup holders and the front paddler has the benefit of a small hatch for your valuables.

Specs and Features

  • Length: 15 foot 3 inches
  • Width: 29.5 inches
  • Weight: 72 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 475 pounds

Pros

  • Stable and quick
  • Spacious cockpits
  • Lots of storage space
  • Removable third seat

Cons

  • Not easy to carry

8. Ocean Kayak 16-Feet Zest TwoPin

Ocean-Kayak-16-Feet-Zest-TwoPin

Going for Ocean Kayak 16-Feet Zest TwoPin is a good choice for a family camping adventure and also one that is built for light touring. This tandem kayak comes with a stable hull, which can handle a range of water conditions.

In comparison with some other shorter and wider yaks, Its relatively narrow width compared with its long length is designed for speed and efficiency making it easy to paddle over longer distances.

Ocean Kayak 16-Feet Zest TwoPin consists of padded seats with seatbacks that fit in the two molded seats in the hull, and there’s also room for a small kid or pet.

When securing gear for an overnight trip, the spacious gear storage compartments at the bow and stern, both with bungee cords serve the purpose. As a longboat, there is an additional transportation consideration. It also requires a strong second paddler to help lift it.

Specs And Features

  • Length: 16 foot 4.5 inches
  • Width: 30.5 inches
  • Weight: 75 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 600 pounds

Pros

  • Quick over water
  • Storage hatches
  • Ideal for touring
  • Generous weight capacity

Cons

  • There may be a need for an extra pair of hands for hauling.

9. Old Town Twin Heron Tandem

Old-Town-Twin-Heron-Tandem

This is a sit-inside kayak with a 500-pound capacity. If you are a longer paddler, it can be a great choice for you. When paddling a tandem kayak, ensure you have room for light camping gear, and having additional bungee storage space at the stern will be of great benefit.

The Old Town Twin Heron has a large, spacious cockpit with two seats and adjustable seat backs which implies that you’re able to paddle it on your own if you need to.

When paddling solo, Auto Trim Hull helps redistribute the weight, so it shouldn’t affect the performance or cause the yak to tip. The “Glide Track” foot brace system is made available to help you position your feet comfortably.

For your water-allergic valuables, having a dry bag is a good substitutional option because the cockpit is mostly covered.

Specs and Features

  • Length: 13 ft 6 inches
  • Width: 31.5 inches
  • Weight: 60 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 500 pounds

Pros

  • Ideal for all seasons
  • Large single cockpit
  • Lightweight for a rigid tandem
  • Can be easily paddled solo

Cons

  • No dry storage area
  • Not the prettiest kayak

10. Saturn Inflatable Fishing Kayak FK396

Saturn-fishing-inflatable-kayaks

Saturn fishing inflatable kayaks are the best kayaks for fishing. Although there is no designated seat for the second person, you can still paddle along with a companion of your choice without issues.

As a paddler, you determine Your sitting position whether to sit on the aluminum benches that come with this kayak or attach foldable boat chairs to the benches for additional comfort. Or you can completely remove the benches and replace them with the regular kayak seats.

This kayak is stand-out equipment that won’t flip insight waves and its narrow profile combined with the high buoyancy tubes makes it possible. There is enough room for your fishing properties while fishing.

Specs and Features

  • Material: 1100 Dtex PVC
  • Length: 13 ft.
  • Weight: 43 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 700 pounds
  • Dimensions: 156 x 36 x 20 inches

Pros

  • It has a rare feature for inflatable kayaks holding up to 700 pounds of weight.
  • Due to the availability of many seating options, paddlers choose their preferred way of seating.

Cons

  • Apart from fishing, it is not the most optimal kayak for other uses.

How To Choose A Tandem Kayak

Many factors play an essential role when choosing the kind of kayak to purchase. This implies that before you consider purchasing a kayak, there is a need to look out for the following essential features. These include value, transportability, durability, gear storage, stability, and comfort.

Value

The value of anything determines its worth. So when considering purchasing or even renting a tandem kayak, it is necessary to go for one that can meet your desired needs and is within your price range.

While some kayaks can be gotten for under $400, others can be gotten for over $1,500. Ensure you set out your budget before deciding on the kayak to purchase.

When considering value, do well to check out for essential features like mounts, repair kits, and most importantly paddles to avoid the additional price cost of getting them separately.

This helps you decide if it is worth the price point. In addition, check on the offered warranty and go for the longest possible warranty.

Generally, when comparing the cost price of different Kayaks, the Explorer K2 kayak is the most affordable option and the Driftsun Rover kayak is the most expensive option.

The Sevylor Coleman Colorado kayak among many kayaks sits in the middle and is a fine balance of price and features.

Bear in mind that at a point the pricing of inflatable kayaks and rigid kayaks meet, and in such a situation in most cases, the most well-built inflatable kayaks will be priced similarly to mid-range rigid kayaks.

Transportability

Imagine having reasons to carry your kayak from one location to the other and there seems to be no assistance.

The fact remains that it is never a simple task to lift a small “boat” that weighs 90 pounds above your head into the roof rack of an SUV or station wagon.

In such conditions, the best option has always been something like a kayak trailer. As one of the factors to be considered when getting a kayak, you need to keep in mind a solid action plan for transportation.

There’s a need to consider the weight that you can transport and carry unassisted when the need arises. This is one of the advantages of having a tandem kayak because with it you will have at least one other person to assist.

For inflatable kayaks, means of transportation are not a problem, although some inflatable tandem kayaks do not come with any kind of duffel bag or storage medium.

It’s important to ensure that your inflatable tandem kayak comes with a  storage bag that can be used for its transportation as well. Generally, Standard Kayak’s total weight ranges from between 75 and 100 pounds.

Comparably, the Ocean Kayak Malibu weighs 63 pounds, on the lighter end for rigid tandem kayaks. Any vehicle that has a roof rack, is easily transported due to its low weight.

The Driftsun Rover 120/220 on the other hand is longer and has many added features. It weighs 28 lbs and is an inflatable kayak, it is far easier for one person to lift onto the roof of a car.

The Intex Explorer K2 among many others is the lightest, therefore making transportation so easy, especially for solo kayakers. It is light 30ish lbs, and also comes with a gear bag for storage.

The weight of the Sevylor Coleman Colorado kayak is slightly above 40 lbs and always comes with a thin bag for transport. The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame, with its aluminum frame, weighs about 55 lbs with the gear bag far thicker and easy to transport.

Durability

When Tandem kayaks are durable, they serve purposes for many years without limitations. Checking for materials that the boat is made up of becomes necessary because it determines how strong and durable they are.

Kayaks that are made from things such as heavy-duty plastic and PVC typically have the strongest durability. Also, check out for things like the composition, paddle bars, handles, and any other physical elements comprising the kayak.

Kayak Gear Storage

It is always an interesting view when kayaking and to communicate with the “outside world” when kayaking, as well as shoot pictures of your experiences, one may choose to go with electronics like a camera, smartphone, or non-waterproof watch.

A dry and watertight compartment for storage becomes important. Also, watertight compartments eliminate the potential anxiety that can arise from the possibility of losing expensive electronics.

But when your tandem kayak lacks the storage necessary for your electronic devices, dry bags, and waterproof phone pouches are substitutional options.

Tandem Kayaks are known to have bungee cords at the top which are used to hold jackets, shoes, and non-electronics properties. There is a need to know that non-watertight compartments are suitable for the storage of fishing gear.

According to the gear storage capacity of different kayaks, the Driftsun Rover kayak consists of a large bungee rear tank well and a bow cargo bungee system. It also has two sealed hatches with bag inserts.

The Sevylor Coleman Colorado Kayak features mesh storage pockets that keep gear and snacks close at hand.

For additional storage, the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame comes with storage options, as well as “above deck” bungee cording. The Intex Explorer K2 alternatively features minimal space for storage.

Stability And Comfort

The comfort that comes with a tandem kayak is determined by its legroom available, leg length accommodation, and the materials of the seat.

Some tandem kayaks come with removable middle seats and when used they can accommodate a child but when not in use, it is a perfect option for either a dog or more legroom.

Although Kayaks may not always be incredibly comfortable on long paddles. However, many have proven better than others.

When speaking about the stability of kayaking in different water conditions, it is important to know that the experiences are quite different either in a river or a  still and calm lake.

Ensure to choose a kayak that will meet your kayaking needs. For instance, shorter tandem kayaks tend to be far less stable and slower when compared to longer tandem kayaks.

Likewise, Inflatable kayaks also tend to lack the stability of rigid alternatives. Comparably, the inflatable Intex Explorer K2 seatbacks have minimal pain points at hour three, and Sevylor Coleman Colorado when not paddling has minor instability.

Inflatable Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame, has great stability with minimal discomfort.

Why Choose A Tandem Kayak?

There are many reasons why one should choose a Tandem kayak over a solo kayak. Although it depends on the kayaker’s different needs.

Tandem kayaks have many advantages and a few disadvantages. Here are the many pros of having a tandem kayak.

Family in kayak

Among many other reasons, this is one of the obvious advantages of owning a tandem kayak. The experience that comes with kayaking with your family members on board is more exciting and adventurous.

If you have a family, particularly with younger kids, depending on the age & size of your kids, ensure you allow your child to sit in the bow cockpit (front seat) while you as an adult sit at the stern end (back seat).

With this arrangement, your kids can sit at the front and enjoy the views while you can paddle at the back, still see everything, and look out for any obstacles that may crop up.

Tandem Kayak Allows For Multitasking

As a solo kayaker, the whole of the burden is on you and you alone. The experience might seem boring as there is no one else to talk with while onboard or even take any of the strain for you.

While paddling, you might be limited from doing extra things that can spice up the experience. For instance, having two people on board while paddling along a picturesque river alongside a camera, one person can take some snaps while the other person paddles the boat.

Paddling a tandem kayak can just be ‘easier’ in that one of the kayakers can take a break and the other takes up the paddling process and with this, the workload is shared.

Fishing Experience

Fishing alone will always be more tedious than fishing with another person. Having someone else on board to keep things steady allows you to reel in a whopper.

Storage Space

The fact remains that a Tandem kayak can accommodate 1.5 times more equipment than a solo kayak. This implies that tandem kayaks have a more significant storage space than solo kayaks.

Yes, tandem kayaks can take a lot of heavy gear but as tempting as it can be, do well not to bring too much gear with you because when there is too much gear, it tends to make the paddling process difficult especially when nearing its weight capacity.

Nevertheless, there is usually a lot more space in 2 single kayaks than there is in one tandem ‘yak. This is one of the advantages of having two solo kayaks rather than a tandem should there be a need to carry around more stuff.

For a better and more positive experience while paddling with a tandem kayak, ensure if possible you carry less gear.

More Speed

With two kayakers on a boat, along with the fact you’re paddling a longer boat, means you can tour along faster. So Tandem becomes the best option if you want to pick up the pace.

Increased Stability

For less experienced kayakers especially beginners and children, Stability over speed is needed. Kayaking along choppier or less calm waters requires all-around stability.

Ensure you choose a tandem kayak with a rudder and pedals for easier control because  Tandems can be a little more difficult to maneuver than single kayaks.

Moreso, unlike when you are in a single kayak, the paddling experience with two people on board most of the time is fun-filled and full of lasting pleasant memories. It is always a moment full of romantic activities and the sharing of bonds either for lovers or as husband and wife.

Safety backup

Tandem Kayaks act as a great safety backup especially when you are out with a group and someone falls ill or tires out, there is a spare seat for the person to rest while the other paddler continues the paddling process.

Imagine lots of solo yaks on board, it might not be possible for the person to get to their destination. This implies that a solo paddler would have to get towed, with that person on board although this process might not be particularly practical.

Sit-on-Top vs Sit-Inside Tandem Kayaks

Sit on Top Kayaks

This happens to be the most popular recreational kayak for anglers and scuba divers. Sit top kayaks have their seats built over the water level making it possible for easy exit and entry of watercraft by paddlers. Stability is achieved because this kayak has a wider configuration, so you can store more gear, too.

Sit-Inside Tandem Kayaks

Sit-inside tandem kayak looks much like a traditional kayak. It has an enclosed design that consists of cockpits where the paddlers could sit. A sit-inside tandem kayak is ideal for your touring purposes.

Paddlers stay dry all through the kayaking adventure because they are sheltered from water splashes, the wind, and other elements. Your choice of kayak for either Sit-on-Top or Sit-Inside Tandem Kayaks depends on the purpose of the activity you want to involve the kayak.

Inflatable Kayaks vs Rigid Tandem Kayaks

Inflatable tandem kayak?

This is a modern type of Kay which is easily transformed from an easy-carry backpack into a watercraft. Simply pump in the air, and voila!

You’ve got a kayak to go. This kayak’s seat is built above the water level which makes for easy exit and entry of watercraft.  In addition, it has sit-on-top and sit-inside features.

What is a rigid tandem kayak?

A rigid tandem kayak also called a hard shell kayak is a non-inflatable kayak made up of “wood, plastic, fiberglass or composite materials”. An inflatable tandem kayak is the best choice when considering the following kayak factors:

  • Convenient
  • Cost price
  • Weight
  • Transportation
  • Maintenance

A rigid tandem kayak is the best choice when considering the following kayak factors:

  • Durability
  • Stability

What Are The Features I Should Look Out For in a Tandem Kayak?

Considering purchasing a tandem kayak, there is a need for you to decide on the essential features your kayak must have to meet your desired needs.

Ensure you go for the durable one that can serve a purpose for a long period without limitations. The fact that the manufacturer offers you a good warranty doesn’t guarantee its durability more than the built-up materials.

Ensure the materials are of high quality, sturdy, and durable. Tandem kayaks are usually crafted from either plastic or PVC as well and the paddle bars, handles, and other elements can be made from aluminum and steel.

So when choosing your kayak, consider the type of tandem kayak, its material, engine type, design peculiarities, and weight capacity. Check out the kayak’s names as well because it can help you determine what type fits your needs the best.

Have your budget well stated out and stick to it no matter how appealing other models of tandem kayak look. Tandem kayaks can be paddled or automatic and motor-driven.

Recently, the most advanced tandem kayak models are upgraded to an electric trolling motor which enables them to operate with a power supply all through their lifespan.

Tandem kayaks are constructed using different materials and in different widths and lengths to meet different standards and goals. For a kayaker who wants to be on board with friends and family, and as well have storage space for essential properties, ensure you go for a longer kayak.

This allows for a comfortable kayaking adventure for hours at a go without having to take a break. Moreso, longer kayaks are more stable when in the water than shorter kayaks.

Having a longer boat (tandem kayak) guarantees comfortable paddling for hours at a time without having to take breaks. Moreso, when in the water, you are bound to experience more stability than when in the water with shorter kayaks.

The bigger the weight capacity of your tandem kayak is, the higher the chances of you enjoying your kayaking trip. The kayak’s weight has to comfortably support the weights of the two paddlers on the boat and still have enough space for fishing or other gear.

Otherwise, the boat can tend to tip over, and instead of being comfortable at the moment, you’ll constantly be worrying about making the wrong move.

Can a Tandem Kayak Be Used By a Solo kayaker?

Tandem kayaks are designed to accommodate two kayakers and that makes it difficult and tricky for inexperienced solo kayakers (especially kayaking in windy weather with less experienced skills).

Nevertheless, according to some experienced kayakers, paddling a tandem kayak solo can be done with you sitting at the back and adding some weight in the front to distribute the weight along the whole body of the boat.

This process makes it easier to have full control over the boat when paddling and allows for smoother turns with little effort.

Can a Tandem Kayak Accommodate a Heavier Person?

Tandem kayaks are best operated by heavier and more experienced persons seated in the back. But in windy weather conditions, or when the counter-currents appear, it is more advantageous to have the front side of the boat heavier.

How do you paddle a kayak?

You might be right to say that paddling a Tandem Kayak that accommodates two persons is harder than a solo kayak. 

Of course, the size of the boat along with the syncing you have to do with your kayaking partner affects the increased difficulty of paddling. But if you abide by the set kayaking rules, paddling will be easy.

There is always a positive result of smooth sailing when a synchronized rhythm by both paddlers is met. Paddling a tandem kayak requires the front sitter to set the pace while the rear sitter bounces back when the kayak seems to go off course.

How to transport a kayak?

Transporting both solo and tandem Kayaks is of the same mechanism. The slight difference is that a tandem kayak is bigger than a solo kayak.

Once you have either a roof rack or a kayak trailer that can be carried by hand or attached to the back of the vehicle, you can easily transport your kayak to any destination.

How to store a tandem kayak?

A Tandem kayak is generally longer than a solo kayak. For this reason, it requires more storage space. Ensure to get a kayak trailer that keeps your kayak away from the ground unless you are willing to spend extra for a kayak carrier. 

When storing your tandem kayak, do well to store it vertically on a cushion-like surface to keep it looking new for longer. For your tandem kayak to last long and effectively, always rinse and put it in a dark place away from direct sunlight even if it has to stand outside.

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