Best 2 Person Kayak: Complete Reviews With Comparisons
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Without a doubt, kayaking is one of the most exciting water recreational activities out there.
For that same reason, it’s no surprise that you’ll want to share it with your buddy.
This is where the best 2 person kayaks comes in.
Despite being called a tandem kayak, though, you don’t necessarily have to bring another with you.
Instead, you can use the extra space to carry and hold your gear.
To help you start your journey on the right track, here are five of the best two-person kayaks you’ll find on the market today.
Comparison Chart
2 Person Kayak Reviews
1. Sundolphin Bali 13.5 Tandem
Since 1982, Sundolphin’s watercraft line has been a staple among kayakers of all skill levels.
What you’ll love about them is that they’re all manufactured in the owner’s home state, Michigan.
The Bali 13.5 Tandem is currently Sundolphin’s only two-person kayak under its sit-in category.
Review
At a glance, the Sundolphin Bali 13.5 Tandem appears to be a run-of-the-mill kayak that lacks any distinct qualities.
Is there any truth to this, though? Let’s check each feature to find out.
- Impressive User Capacity
Rather than just two persons, this kayak can accommodate up to three persons, which could be convenient in certain circumstances.
It has a 500-pound weight capacity, so it can easily carry one adult plus two children of average weight.
However, since the design only allows for two seats, you’ll need to buy and install a new seat if you want to include a third person.
Also, you’ll find that the kayak’s 13.5-foot length might hamper your mobility if you’re planning on paddling solo.
- Self-Bailing Floor
The Sundolphin Bali 13.5 Tandem features a floor with well-placed holes that allow any water within the vessel to drain back out.
Self-bailers like this model have a larger-than-average floor with an inflated chamber beneath it.
Then, water splashing inside will come to the drainage holes because of the deck’s height and the floor’s slope.
As you can imagine, this self-bailing design is extremely efficient when it comes to emptying water from the kayak.
As such, this feature becomes highly beneficial, especially when traveling down rapids.
- Safe and Comfortable Seats
For comfort and safety, the Sundolphin Bali 13.5 Tandem has adjustable cushioned seats with a high backrest.
The seats have a general build and materials, though, so don’t expect too much from them as they don’t come with too many significant components.
If you’re looking for something that can give you the comfort and support you need for long periods in the water, you might want to shop for better seats.
- Ample Storage
To ensure you have everything you need, the Bali 13.5 Tandem has more than enough storage and additional compartments.
Use the hatches at the front and rear to keep your tools and other equipment secure.
Even better, dry storage for your electronics and other valuables is also available.
This model has some mesh bungees and a storage room in the rear for any additional items essential for your water activities.
- Premium-Quality Plastic Build
For the Bali 13.5 Tandem’s hull, the primary material used for its construction is Fortiflex’s HDPE (high-density polyethylene).
It’s a high-grade plastic, so you can be sure it will deliver where longevity and strength are concerned.
While it may not have the cosmetic aspect and affordability of LDPE (low-density linear polyethylene), it remains the preferred choice by many trusted kayak manufacturers.
After all, Fortiflex is among the leaders in making high-quality, industrial-grade HDPE.
Hence, there’s no doubt that the durability of this kayak is comparable to models in the more expensive end of the spectrum.
PROS
CONS
2. Lifetime Sport Fisher Angler 100 Kayak
From furniture pieces to watersports equipment, you will not run out of things to want from Lifetime’s line of products.
The brand started from humble garage beginnings but now has more than a thousand employees under its name.
Throughout the years, it has brought to light a couple of quality releases, all with a reasonable price tag.
At 10 feet, Lifetime’s Sport Fisher Angler 100 is one of the brand’s most well-loved 2-person kayaks.
Review
Despite its relatively shorter length, the Lifetime Sport Fisher Angler 100 is more than capable of delivering an enjoyable experience for two persons.
Not sure if it’s for you? Here are this 2-person kayak’s most notable aspects to help you decide:
- Included Paddles
Unlike the other kayaks on this list, this Lifetime entry includes two paddles on its package.
Because you won’t need to shop for paddles separately, this saves you some time and budget.
Also, this means you can go ahead and enjoy kayaking as soon as you receive the package.
You can expect that these inclusions are compatible with the Lifetime Sport Fisher Angler 100, as they are specially made to complement this kayak.
The paddles themselves appear fairly standard, as they feature a monochromatic color scheme and no distinct details.
- Multiple Footrest Positions
It’s hard to ensure that different paddlers encounter no issues with their posture and comfort when riding a kayak.
To address this, the Sport Fisher Angler 100 comes with multiple adjustable footrest positions.
While this is not relatively revolutionary, it is still worth mentioning because this means that the kayak supports users of different sizes.
What’s more, kids and adults could interchange positions during 2-person kayaking without too many adjustments.
- LDPE Hull
For its hull, the Lifetime Sport Fisher Angler 100 features a UV-protected linear LDPE construction.
As mentioned, the only advantage LDPE has over HDPE is in how it looks.
Sadly, any benefits that this grade of plastic has are easily overshadowed by its lack of durability and overall longevity.
We recommend only using the kayak in calm, debris-free waters, which severely limits its versatility.
It would also be best to exercise extra caution when using it, as it’s not as wear- and impact-resistant as the others.
- Effortless Transport and Storage
Unlike the Sundolphin Bali 13.5, this Lifetime tandem kayak is shorter at only 10 feet.
It measures 36 inches across and weighs 60 pounds overall.
Thanks to these numbers, loading, unloading, transporting, and storing this kayak away requires little to no effort.
2-person kayaks usually measure longer and weigh heavier to accommodate two or more paddlers.
However, Lifetime used a compact design to ensure that almost anyone would efficiently handle the kayak with little help.
- Comfortable Seats
The Lifetime Sport Fisher Angler 100 includes two padded backrests to support your back as you paddle.
Without these, though, you won’t get much support from just the seats.
The seats are essentially elevated parts of the floor, but they claim to have an ergonomic design.
To maximize your experience with the kayak, you might want to buy and mount quality chairs with adjustable features and support.
PROS
CONS
3. Intex Explorer K2
Intex is an active manufacturer of various recreational products, from above-ground pools to sporting goods.
In fact, the brand has more than half a century of experience in the industry, with a commitment to quality and safety.
For kayaks, the Explorer K2 is one of its two-person models alongside the Challenger K2 and the Challenger 2 Boat Set.
Review
Despite being the first inflatable option on this list, the Intex Explorer K2 has sufficient qualities that make it worthy of consideration.
- Striking Aesthetic
The kayak’s bright yellow hue and sporty look make it easily noticeable in the water.
Because of these eye-catching details, spotting the Intex Explorer K2 even at far distances should be easily.
Other kayaks often go for a darker color, which may be a deterrent if the vessel gets lost or flips over.
- Lightweight Construction
For inflatable kayaks, vinyl or PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is the most common material used. The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is no exception.
This material is known for being lightweight and inexpensive, which is preferable for those who are on a budget and have issues with portability.
The problem is, vinyl is susceptible to UV damage and extreme temperatures, so it’s not the best choice if you intend to stay on the water for hours.
- Package Inclusions
The Intex Explorer K2 comes with a travel bag that has a reasonably thin appearance.
Regardless, the bag should be enough for a short trip and is suitable for keeping the kayak and other items secured.
This bag can store the deflated Explorer K2 and all of its original accessories.
Also included in the kit are a repair patch and an Intex high-output pump.
With these, you won’t need to buy any other essential equipment to start paddling.
As you can imagine, these inclusions give you peace of mind that you’re getting the most out of your money.
- Separate Air Chambers
The Explorer K2 has two side chambers and one bottom chamber.
If the kayak is punctured, just one of the air chambers will deflate, while the other two will stay inflated.
In case something sharp punctures one of the air chambers, you’ll have enough time to go back ashore and to safety.
- Straightforward Setup
Inflating the kayak’s air chambers is quick and easy, thanks to the included high-output air pump.
Each chamber features a measurement scale, allowing you to check the air pressure using the included measuring strip or ruler.
The key is finding the correct air pressure level.
Inflate it too low, and it’ll limit your driving performance. On the other hand, high air pressure could be disastrous for the chambers.
Overall, the setup is not so different from other inflatable kayak models.
- Comfort
The Intex Explorer K2 is quite pleasant to sit in because of its soft, inflatable construction.
Compared to most kayak seats, which are usually made of mesh, you’ll have a better time relaxing since you’ll have more cushioning.
Still, remember that the chairs would not provide adequate support for longer or more strenuous trips.
PROS
CONS
4. BKC PK14
BKC is one of the most recognizable brands in the kayak manufacturing industry.
Besides its collection of kayaks, the New Jersey-based company is known for quality yet reasonably-priced water vessels.
You will find several options for tandem kayaks from BKC, and one of them is the PK14.
Review
With the BKC PK14, 2-person kayaking could be more exhilarating thanks to its set of features.
Unlike the other kayaks we reviewed, the BKC PK14 exhibits bicycle-style pedals.
When used in sync, the pedals could turn into highly efficient manual propellers.
What’s more, the rear seat has a hand-operated rudder control mechanism that enables accurate, responsive maneuvers.
You can experience more dynamic movement when you opt for an optional trolling motor.
- Impressive Stability
The single-piece Roto-molded hull of the PK14 is capable of carrying up to 670 pounds of total weight.
With its HDPE construction, it can outperform inflatable kayaks and handle conditions on the beach, lake, or river.
The kayak can ride currents, cut through choppy waters, and maneuver over still waters with little effort.
Considering its weight, length, and width, the BKC PK14’s exceptional stability is unquestioned.
Fishing, swimming, or snorkeling in your favorite water spot becomes more feasible due to its advantageous measurements.
You can even stand or safely jump into the water from the PK14 without worrying about losing your balance.
Even when paddling solo, the kayak provides sufficient maneuverability for all-day fun in the water.
- Storage and Transport
The BKC PK14’s bow has a big front waterproof storage hatch and a recessed luggage space behind the rear seat.
These storage options will come in handy during multiple-day excursions.
Plus, you can use the three flush-mounted rod holders for fishing rods to secure them in place while on transit.
The four handles make transporting the kayak or loading it into a trailer or your vehicle hassle-free.
- Included Accessories
The BKC PK14 comes with two ergonomic aluminum frame seats, two customizable aluminum paddles, three watertight hatches, and three rod holders.
You will also receive two paddle parks, four accessory plates, and one bungee cargo tie-down.
With all of these extra gear and built-in features, there’s no reason why you should postpone your trip to a nearby river this weekend.
- Portability
Given its weight (99 pounds), it would be challenging to carry it around without the assistance of a companion.
As such, make sure that you have someone who can help you load and unload the BKC PK14 to avoid accidents and damages.
PROS
CONS
5. Driftsun Voyager
Compared to other established kayak brands, Driftsun only has a couple of years of experience as a water sports equipment manufacturer.
However, the passion of its founders for outdoor activities more than makes up for its relatively short experience in the industry.
The Voyager, an inflatable 2-person water kayak, is one of the brand’s featured releases for kayaks.
Review
Planning to take on fun water adventures with a friend or family member?
In that case, the Driftsun Voyager is a reliable kayak to have because of its numerous features.
- Sturdy Construction
One of the downsides of having an inflatable kayak is the fact that it is vulnerable to punctures and other types of damages.
To minimize these risks, the Voyager uses a heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin bottom.
Compared to other inflatable materials, PVC is portable, durable, easy to patch, and lasts longer.
At the top, you’ll find an 840D-coated nylon oxford material that guarantees exceptional rip and tear resistance.
There are also Boston valves with double threads to reinforce protection against leaks.
- Compact Design
When deflated, the Driftsun Voyager measures a compact size of only 26 inches long and 16 inches wide.
Because of this, you’ll find no problems packing it inside its carry bag, which also comes with the package.
What’s more, transporting and storing it away is easy because of its 27-pound weight.
- Solo or Tandem Kayak
Depending on your needs, you’ll find that the Driftsun Voyager works well both as a solo or 2-person kayak.
Its pointed nose bow, V-shape hull, rocker profile, and detachable tracking fin work together to deliver outstanding performance in calm and rough water conditions.
Even better, the high-capacity side tubes ensure remarkable stability and buoyancy.
- Other Inclusions
If you opt for this 2-person kayak, you’ll also receive two padded, adjustable EVA seats and two aluminum paddles.
Compared to other kayak models with included paddles, this pair is superior.
Not only are these paddles made of a hard-wearing material, but they also come with ergonomic grip handles.
Lastly, the package also comes with a double-action hand pump, a rear tracking fin, and a carry bag to keep everything organized.
PROS
CONS
Which Is the Best 2-Person Kayak?
Of the five, it’s no surprise that the BKC PK14 takes the top spot as our 2 person kayak of choice.
While it shares some similar qualities with other HDPE kayaks, the difference is that the PK14 also offers pedal drive.
For amateur and young water enthusiasts, paddling could be a cumbersome task after some time.
As such, the pedal system provides a more hands-free experience that translates to more freedom and fun.