The Best Sea kayaks for Exploring Open Waters

Choosing a sea kayak can sometimes be a complicated experience. There are many different types of kayaks on the market and knowing which one would suit our needs can be a real challenge.

In recent years, the kayak has experienced a real spike in popularity, thus earning it overtake the canoe in the hearts of users, and this, for many reasons. First, kayaks are much lighter and easier to maneuver compared to canoes thanks to their paddles allowing full control over all the movements of the craft. Second, kayaks are generally faster than canoes.

This article was updated in January 2023 with new products and the latest news available in the market.

Top 10 Best Sea Kayaks Reviewed

Kayaking is a very popular sport for a good reason: it allows you to be on the water and admire it from all angles while playing sports! You’ll be able to tone your upper body at the pace that’s right for you while casually casting a fishing line as you paddle quickly away.

No matter the destination, your kayak will always get you there. But it is also the reason why the choice of your kayak should not be taken lightly. Your boat should meet your needs. Indeed, a kayak designed for long-distance excursions is fine for weekend outings, but is not a practical choice for fishing or short walks.

We recommend that you brighten up your kayak with a few accessories such as a luggage rack, for example, or even fishing equipment or even cushions for your seats. You will be able to get the most out of your boat while feeling comfortable on board.

1. Ouassou Bic Sport sea kayak – The all-rounder

Features:

• Marque – Bic Sport
• Charge maximale – 110 kg

It is a recreational and versatile kayak perfect for cruising along the beach or between the waves thanks to its rigid hull. The handles on the stern will allow you to swim or snorkel while holding onto it.

They also offer the possibility of easily getting back on the kayak after a dip in the water. Its slightly keeled hull and its side edges give it good directional stability and a good grip on the waves. An optional thigh strap system provides grip to the cockpit floor for firmer wave attack.

This kayak offers you the possibility of adding 3 optional fins in the inserts on the hull, thus guaranteeing better glide. The hull of this kayak intended for outings by the sea, in the lake or in the rivers allows the initiation to freestyle. Technical dimensions: 260 cm long and 78 cm wide coupled with its reduced weight of 18 kg facilitate its transport and storage.

Special features: Rigid shell adapted to seaside and waves. Good directional stability. Compact shape. Easy transportation.

2. Intex 63307NP Explorer K2 kayak – The ergonomic seat

Features:

• Marque – Intex
• Charge maximale – 160 kg

Designed to accommodate two people, it is an ISO 6185-1 compliant inflatable kayak. It has two independent air chambers with Boston valve for faster and more convenient inflation and deflation.

This kayak contains two adjustable inflatable seats with removable backrests. The handles at the ends make it easy to transport.

Technical dimensions: 312 x 91 x 51 cm. Sold with aluminum oars and manual pump.

Special features: Two independent air chambers with Boston valve for rapid inflation and deflation. Two handles at the ends for easy transport. Supplied with aluminum oars and manual pump.

3. Intex 63305 Challenger K1 Kayak – Inflatable Seats

Features:

• Marque – Intex
• Charge maximale – 100 kg

Designed for one person, this kayak features an adjustable inflatable seat with removable backrest. The boat complies with the ISO 6185-1 standard. It has Boston valves, a directional fin, an inflatable bottom for increased comfort of use, a cockpit net and a lifeline on the bow. This kayak is sold with its aluminum oars and manual pump. Technical dimensions: 274 x 76 x 33 cm.

Special features: Inflatable bottom for increased comfort of use. Net and rope on the bow of the kayak. Supplied with aluminum oars and manual pump.

4. Sevylor 240 Inflatable Sea Kayak – The Safest

Features:

• Brand – Sevylor
• Charge maximale – 115 kg

The Sevylor kayak is light and versatile and is suitable for maritime outings. It has a reinforced shell for increased safety. Always with a view to safety, it has several independent air chambers: the side ones stabilize the kayak and the valve located on the ground adds rigidity to its base.

This kayak has many attachments for attaching accessories such as luggage racks or diving or snorkeling equipment. The polyester coated seats have adjustable straps to provide the necessary support for your back.

The transparent window on the bow of the kayak allows viewing of underwater life while paddling. Foam-padded footrests ensure ease of paddling and moving. Jumbo valves promote the inflation and deflation of the boat.

Fully inflated, the kayak measures 236 x 86 cm and weighs 7 kg. Included with the kayak: a pressure gauge, a directional fin, a transport bag and a repair kit.

Special features: Numerous fasteners for attaching luggage racks. Adjustable seat straps to ensure proper back support. Easy inflation and deflation thanks to its Jumbo valves.

5. Intex 68306 K2 Challenger Inflatable Kayak – Toughest

Features:

• Marque – Intex
• Charge maximale – 160 kg

Suitable for both adults and children, this kayak is made of sturdy Super-Tough vinyl. This type of PVC is not damaged by contact with petrol, grease or salt water. It is also highly resistant to damage from abrasions, impact and sunlight and it promotes higher air pressure for increased stability.

The boat combines a highly technical design with ease of inflation, deflation and transport: installing a luggage rack on the roof of your car or a cumbersome and impractical trailer will not be necessary to transport this kayak!

The Boston valve guarantees rapid inflation and deflation of the main air chambers. The kayak includes two adjustable seats with backrests. 122cm oars can convert to 244cm paddle.

Special features: Boston valve ensures the filling and emptying of the main air chambers. The manholes are designed for maximum comfort. Tapered design for easier paddling.

6. Orange Bestway Ventura Kayak – The most welcoming for a couple

Features:

• Marque – Bestway
• Charge maximale – 160 kg

Equipped with structures reinforced by a nylon coating, this kayak can be used in all conditions. It can comfortably accommodate up to two people and is sold with two very light aluminum paddles of 2.18 meters. The seats are adjustable and have storage to take everything you need with you. The PVC material is resistant to exposure to sunlight and salt water.

The bottom of the I-beam boat is water resistant. Its sturdy handles make it easy to carry and the kayak stores easily in little space. The standard equipment is completed with a hand pump, a repair kit, two removable directional stability fins and a removable carrying bag.

Special Features: Sturdy carrying handles. Easy transport and storage. Adjustable seats for comfortable paddling. Easily maneuverable aluminum paddles.

7. Bestway Hydro-force-Lite-rapid x2 Kayak – Best for Keeping Water Out

Features:

• Marque – Bestway
• Charge maximale – 160 kg

This kayak, ideal for accommodating two people, offers all the advantages of a professional boat and guarantees ease of inflation and quick and easy transport. Crafted in durable 0.57mm woven vinyl, it features a specific design developed to prevent water from entering the cockpit. One thing is certain, with this kayak, you won’t get your feet in the water!

Thanks to its rubber lifeline, its removable central fin for movement stability, its very comfortable navigation position due to its inflatable seats, this kayak provides you with the perfect combination for setting off on an adventure!

Its pleasant cockpit is enhanced by two inflatable seats with padded backrests to keep your back in a comfortable position during your long expeditions. A removable central fin provides valuable assistance for increased directional stability. The rubber lifeline will allow you to easily get back on board. The integrated drain valve makes it easy to deflate the kayak at the end of the day.

Standard equipment includes a pair of 2.18 meter aluminum paddles and a repair kit to deal with any accidents that may occur.

Special Features: Two-seater kayak. Its padded seats provide the comfort needed during a long day of expedition. Removable center fin for increased directional stability.

8. Kayak Aquamarina 2 Posti Tomahawk Air-K 440

The Aqua Marina Tomahawk inflatable kayak is inflatable and can carry 2 people. This kayak is designed for the best performance. The brand new Tomahawk Air-K is made entirely of Drop-Stitch material and stands out for its stunning appearance and high quality.

It combines efficiency, speed, comfort and stability and offers everything needed for relaxed cruising on the water. Slim, aerodynamic design and V-bottom fore and aft provide good maneuverability and easy glide through the water

The bottom and side chambers are made entirely of Drop-Stitch material. Stronger and faster than traditional inflatable kayaks, 3 air chambers separated from each other. V-shaped bow and stern for optimal glide on the water.

The seat of the high quality canoe is with high backrest for optimal comfort with pockets for accessories. The maximum number of people and the maximum load is 210 kg.

9. Bestway Hydro-Force Inflatable Sea Kayak

Bestway Hydro Force inflatable kayaks are available to most users who want to learn to kayak or go on short hikes in pairs. Bestway is only 20 years old, but has established itself as a benchmark in the market for mattresses and inflatable pools. The brand now offers sea-approved inflatable kayaks.

Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or adventurer, Hydro Force has the gear you need for your next rafting adventure.

Bestway offers light and easy to transport kayaks. The Hydro-Force range of kayaks are renowned for their quality, experience in the inflatable leisure market and value for money.

The kayaks in this range have been factory tested, they are resistant to UV, hydrocarbons and sea salt and are designed in such a way that water does not penetrate inside. They have good gliding properties. Finally, they have seats that improve comfort. Enough to walk for hours without back pain.

10. Aquamarina 2 Posti Betta-412 Inflatable Sea Kayak

Enjoy the great outdoors with this AQUAMARINA 2 inflatable kayak for two people with a very robust design. The inflatable kayak offers portability, easy storage and quick setup. It is a 13’9″ (412 cm) kayak for one or two people, designed for lakes and temperate waters.

This inflatable kayak weighs nearly 13.5 kg, and its load capacity is 155 kg (342 lb). It has tracking marks that make it easy to maneuver, even for a novice user. The inflatable kayak is a natural choice for beginners and intermediate paddlers.

The Aqua Marina Betta BE-412 2-Person Inflatable Kayak is specially designed for lakes and moderate waters, perfect for enjoying the outdoors with whoever you want. It is also ideal for beginners, as it has markings for easy maneuvering and a very robust design that allows portability, easy storage and quick installation.

Designed to be safe, stable and capable, these kayaks are the ideal low-maintenance boats for those looking to hit the water in a versatile, easy-to-paddle boat. In other words, it’s created with super-stiff materials that make it an inflatable kayak so stiff it performs like a traditional hard-shell kayak, or better.

How to choose my sea kayak?

The first piece of advice we have for you is to make a list of priorities. Are you a kayaking veteran and you don’t miss any opportunity to go on an adventure aboard your trusty boat? Or are you more of an occasional paddler who likes to kayak for the pleasure of the eyes in peace? Are you more daring or cautious? Do you want to go on expeditions on the high seas or will you be content with the coast?

In addition to having to find the answer to all these questions, you will also have to confront the market prices. Even the cheapest kayak requires a certain investment. But if you want to buy your kayak while saving money, you can find your rare pearl online. Indeed, the offers of kayaks and canoes online are often interesting and the boats are often versatile and suitable for almost any use.

Features to Consider Before Buying a Kayak

When the time has come to take the plunge, it is important to take into consideration every aspect of your future kayak that will allow you to find the model that best suits your needs. First think about the type of expeditions you do: do you like fishing, rafting or simply strolling along calm rivers?

Another aspect not to be underestimated is the transport of the boat. If you don’t want to invest in a trailer for your car, you can always opt for an inflatable kayak that will surely fit in a small space.

It is also obvious that you should choose your kayak according to the number of people who are going to use it. You must therefore think about whether you want to go on an excursion alone or accompanied. You might even want to bring your four-legged friend along.

Well, in this case, it will be necessary to choose the kayak that offers the most suitable space for him too.

In addition to all these points, there are still other aspects to consider!

Some of the best sea kayaks are long, tapered, responsive and demanding. If you are a beginner and are still getting to the basics, in this case it is better to opt for a wider and more stable kayak, as these are easier to use for beginners.

Also remember that you will improve based on how much you enjoy using your kayak. If you’re scared or not so keen on it, it may take longer to get used to your kayak and improve your skills, but once you’ve progressed well and feel like comfortable, you can always opt for a more stimulating kayak.

Although some argue that beginners should start with a high-level kayak to develop all the proper techniques, such a kayak can actually be very risky. Indeed, if you find yourself unable to cope with a fast current or strong winds, a health walk could turn into a real nightmare. Remember: you have to start small to aim big!

We advise you, as a general rule, to take with you only what is strictly necessary. Just because your kayak has plenty of space available doesn’t mean it’ll be easier to maneuver in rough seas if it’s packed to the last millimeter. You could even risk losing some of your belongings forever.

The management of the kayak includes the control of the boat and its maneuverability. While a high level of maneuverability is of paramount importance in tight spaces, it is less so on the high seas. This means that it is necessary to consider the level of control when choosing your kayak. sea.

Whether you are an apprentice kayaker who prefers quiet and calm rides or an advanced and daring kayaker able to face rapids, it is always good to have a kayak with a good level of immersion to avoid sinking. The immersion level is calculated according to the maximum weight necessary to lower your kayak one centimeter below the water level.

The higher the maximum load of your sea kayak, the more weight it will take to submerge it. If you use your sea kayak for sports, a low maximum load will be sufficient for you. On the other hand, if you use your kayak for pleasure, it may be better to choose one with a high maximum load so that you have peace of mind without fear of overturning your kayak.

Most of the name brand sea kayaks are made of materials that can withstand various weather conditions. However, lesser-known brands that offer kayaks at low prices tend to save on this aspect; It’s no longer a secret ! But don’t be fooled by brand appeal though, as even professional brands offering more budget-priced kayaks tend to use poor quality materials. We must therefore remain vigilant.

Pay attention to visible steel and non-waterproof wooden components. You should also know that materials such as plastic or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (known as ABS) are materials particularly appreciated for their high performance.

Since sea kayaks are generally designed for rough water, they need to be able to ride through waves. Unlike freshwater kayaks which may feature rounded, flat hulls, sea kayaks should have a V-hull, ensuring they can cut through waves big or small. V-hulls also help with the stability of the boat, although rounded hulls are acceptable for certain sea conditions such as crossing flat water creeks, coastlines or estuaries.

For coastal navigation on the high seas, narrow and medium-sized kayaks offer the best performance. Their reduced width allows them to navigate easily both in calm water and in rougher water. Owning a long sea kayak (between 3 and 4 meters) will help you keep your boat more stable.

Unlike kayaks designed for lakes and rivers, sea kayaks must have small manholes for the cockpit. Indeed, the passenger compartment should barely be wider than the legs. It should be comfortable enough to sit and move around in the cockpit, but not too tight to avoid discomfort or impede movement.

This particular shape of the manhole in the cockpit not only allows the piloting of the kayak, but also prevents sea water from entering it. Sea kayaks used for flatwater touring may sport wider openings.

The type of water your kayak will face plays an important role in your choice. For calm waters, such as those found in mangroves or quiet coves, less expensive kayaks or sit on top kayaks (kayaks without decks to sit on and intended for beginners) are very practical and are quite enough. On the other hand, if you plan to attack fast and unstable currents, it is necessary to consider only kayaks with V-hull.

Many models are supplied with standard equipment: a pump (often manual ) or a repair kit allowing independent intervention in the event of puncture of the air chambers.

How to choose the right material?

As already discussed above, there are different synthetic and natural materials that can be used to design a kayak intended for touring. These materials range from polyethylene to polycarbonate or from fiberglass to wood. Each material has its own unique properties and its own distinct pros and cons. It is necessary that you choose the kayak that best suits your needs, skills and budget.

As far as paddles are concerned, we advise you to opt for aluminum.

It is one of the most common kayak materials. It is slightly flexible and resists impacts well. Which means you’re unlikely to puncture him by impaling him on the ground or hitting a rock. They are almost unbreakable: a real advantage!

The flip side of polyethylene is that it is, over time, prone to damage from the sun’s rays due to inadequate sun protection ; which won’t be a problem if you keep your kayak out of direct sunlight or use it little. They are also generally slower than their wooden or fiber cousins.

It is similar to polyethylene but has no advantages. Polycarbonate can be used for smoother hulls that will glide better along the waves. For a tour kayak, this is the ideal material, as it makes long days of paddling easier. It makes your kayak very efficient and faster.

It is a material commonly used in the construction of kayaks and is highly valued for its durability, light weight and ability to retain an elegant, smooth shine. Buying a fiberglass kayak is a bit more expensive, but clearly worth it if you plan to use your kayak for a long period of time (a full day, a weekend or even a week) and for several years. They are particularly resistant to scratches.

Wooden kayaks are undoubtedly the least common on the market. Like fiberglass kayaks, they can be made by you, at home. This obviously requires a lot of time as well as a high level of creativity and resourcefulness.

Mastery of the wood is recommended so as not to find yourself in difficulty with an unsuitable or poorly designed kayak. We advise you to find out how to make your own wooden kayak, especially online, or directly from professionals.

If they are well designed, wooden boats prove to be very efficient, durable, resistant and playful when it comes to sailing them.

How do I choose the case that suits me best?

Hull shape refers to the shape of the kayak ideally cut in half and seen from the front. Any type of hull is designed to excel in certain characteristics. Not all shells are created equal and each has its pros and cons.

V-hulls are the most common and effective hulls for touring kayaks. They are a very tapered V-shape under the boat and are not rounded like U-hulls. At first they may seem harder to navigate due to their instability, but once you get the hang of it, they are highly maneuverable and cut through the waves like a blade.

U-shells are uniformly round and can change angle at a very precise point. They slope much more gradually compared to a V-hull. These kayaks are quite unstable at first, but are easily maneuverable once you know how to navigate them.

Flat-hull tour kayaks are hard to find on the market. A flat bottom is unsuitable for tourist craft, as they are less efficient and only offer increased stability when sitting still (for fishing, for example), rather than when sailing them.

Which type of keel is suitable for my needs?

The type of keel of your future kayak is a very important aspect to take into account. The keel is the part that serves as a junction between the side of the boat and the lower part of it.

The keel can be flexible, and in this case it forms a rather round angle, or it can be rigid and thus form a right angle.

Rigid keel kayaks have what looks like a crease all the way through the boat, forming a significant break in the design and material of the boat. The rigid and hard edges guarantee good stability in the vertical position (primary stability [the definition is in the rest of the article]) and exceptional speed.

Soft keel kayaks seem to have no creases, or almost none. This does not create a break in the design of the boat. They have considerable stability when leaning to one side (secondary stability).

These boats are maneuverable in rough water, as the waves glide along the rounded edges. On the other hand, they are slower than rigid keel kayaks.

Primary and secondary stability for a tour kayak

A few lines earlier, we told you about the concepts of primary and secondary stability. An important aspect in choosing your kayak is the type of stability you are looking for. Depending on many details, your kayak will have primary stability, secondary stability, or hybrid stability.

It refers to the stability of the boat in the vertical position, which has a significant impact on the stability of the boat when it is stationary (when entering the kayak for example or during a part of sin). It therefore refers to the ability of the boat to maintain an upright and level position on the surface of the water.

It refers to the stability of the boat when it is tilted on one side, that is to say its ability to remain stable when the boat is rocked. A high level of secondary stability is ideal in rough seas, open water or white water. For tourist boats, secondary stability is therefore less important.

What is the rocker of a kayak?

We have mentioned the shape of the kayak hull: V, U or flat. This is the perspective where you see your boat from the front. Well, now imagine your boat from the side: that’s where the rocker comes in.

If you ski, then you are already familiar with this term. Just like a ski, a boat has raised ends: a bit like a banana. When your kayak is stationary on land, the bow and stern are raised and form a sort of arc.

Most of the boats have a more or less important curve. This curve helps in maneuvering, as the bow and stern are made of more or less submersible material. So when kayakers try to turn their boat, they encounter more or less resistance. The rocker is used for this: it determines the ease with which a kayak can turn and roll.

As a general rule, it is better to sail a kayak with little rocker. A touring kayak, which is flatter, has more hull area under water at the bow and stern, allowing it to follow straight lines. Indeed, when the distances are long, it is better to have less impact on the zigzags that we make our kayak do.

Some kayaks even offer the option of modifying the rocker of the boat directly when you are in it by means of a handle located on the floor of the cockpit, thus allowing you to adapt the ease of navigation of your kayak in any situation.

What is the ideal size of a kayak?

Touring boats tend to be mostly longer compared to racing ones, and that goes without saying, considering that longer boats have more storage space. During your expeditions, you will need all the space available to store and store equipment, food or shelter for camping, for example.

Storage needs aside, a longer kayak holds and cuts through water better overall. These two factors affect the length of the kayak, which can reach 4 to 5 meters.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kayaking Tours

It is clear that it is not easy to identify the kayak of your dreams and especially the kayak best suited to your needs. But with the help of our frequently asked questions and the opinions of experienced kayakers or not, it may be easier to get an idea of ​​​​the perfect kayak for your next expeditions on the high seas.

Rather kayak one person or two-seater?

There aren’t a myriad of two-person tour kayaks out there, but if you have a child you want to take with you, then you’ll have no choice but to steer your search towards a two-person craft. . Be careful, however, of the maximum load that the kayak can support. We don’t want you to end up soaked or lose business!

If you want to venture on the waters with a friend or your companion, the best option is to opt for two single kayaks. Believe us, it will save you a lot of trouble… Obviously, if you want a lot of space or you intend to travel with an expert kayaker, it may be better to choose a two-seater model.

Should I wear a life jacket?

To comply with safety standards, you must always have a life jacket or a buoy on board, at the very least. Children MUST wear a life jacket in all circumstances. Adults should do the same. Know that 80% of drownings at sea can be avoided by wearing a lifejacket according to the sea rescuers of the National Society for Sea Rescue.

An inflatable life jacket is light and subtle, you won’t even realize you’re wearing one. Also remember to attach a buoy to the stern of your boat, this could prove useful in the event of a shipwreck.

Does the color of my kayak matter?

If you intend to use your kayak in places frequented by motorized boats or cruise ships, it is advisable to opt for a flashy colored kayak such as orange or yellow in order to be always more visible. Otherwise, follow your preferences.

Will I necessarily end up wet?

Yes ! Absolutely yes ! It is unavoidable when talking about kayaking or canoeing. Obviously, you will be less soaked if you choose a kayak that you can sit in, but you will inevitably end up with at least wet feet. It is therefore important to wear clothing suitable for kayaking.

Is it necessary to spend more to buy a carbon fiber paddle?

In this case, too, our answer is: yes. A carbon fiber paddle is much lighter and easier to handle. Remember that the paddle is your engine. The lighter it is: the easier it will be to move around and the less tired you will be. However, aluminum paddles are an excellent alternative.

Is it more interesting to take a short kayak or a long kayak?

Generally, a longer kayak is faster. This is why tour kayaks are longer. The longer your kayak is, the better. But whatever the length of your future kayak, we advise you to buy a waterproof cover to store all your belongings neatly, transport your boat more easily and protect it against bad weather and the sun’s rays which could damage it.

Conclusion

Finding the kayak of your dreams can take time. Each kayak requires a different budget and in addition to choose it according to the utility that you will make of it. It is essential to take into consideration all the aspects that we have mentioned throughout this article. For the rest: you will see well by gaining experience.

Among all the models mentioned, the favorite of our editorial staff is: Intex Explorer K2. Thanks to its inflatable and adjustable seats, this kayak will guarantee you an increased level of comfort even during your longest adventures! You can inflate and deflate it in the blink of an eye thanks to its two independent air chambers with Boston valve. A durable boat that will capsize your heart but certainly not your boat!

Aiden Freeborn

Aiden is a freelance journalist and content writer who writes about the outdoors, the environment, and travel. He is a Survival and Preparedness enthusiast who loves everything outdoors. Aiden has always enjoyed pushing people to step outside their comfort zones. His mission is to help others get out of their homes to have fun and stay active in nature.