Are you trying to find lightweight tandem kayaks among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling lightweight tandem kayaks on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 29 hours of research and did 31 lightweight tandem kayaks tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best lightweight tandem kayaks you can buy today
- Unleash unmatched adventures with our 2 person sit-on-top kayak. Proudly made in the USA, this kayak is designed for easy paddling and supports up to 500lbs, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned kayakers.
- Experience unparalleled comfort with adjustable framed seatbacks, cushioned seat pans, and molded knee/thigh areas, ensuring a comfortable fit for all your journeys.
- Our American-made sit-on-top kayak adjusts to paddlers of all sizes with integrated footrests and offers generous storage with front and rear tank wells secured by bungee tie-downs.
- Keep essentials secure in two central hatches and enjoy efficient drainage with scupper holes for an extended paddling season (optional scupper plugs sold separately).
- Personalize your kayak experience with two solo mount recesses for additional mounts and accessories, and benefit from easy transport and secure storage with our durable, one-piece side carry handles.
- A versatile two seater that doubles down on comfort and fun - Made in USA
- Spacious sit-inside design that's easy to board and exit
- Supportive seats with adjustable backrests for optimal support and comfort
- Zone knee/Thigh pads for added comfort
- Adjustable foot pegs accommodates paddlers of various sizes
- Generous storage for longer outings or overnight expeditions
- Bungee deck rigging for additional gear storage
- Easily replaceable skid plate on hull lets you drag kayak without damage
- Water Types: lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, calm coastal and ocean
- Boat length: 14' 6"; Sport type: Boating
- THE PERFECT KAYAK FOR OUTDOOR FUN: Our Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC TK122U tandem kayak has extra space to fit 3 - making it ideal for paddling with kids on family adventures and epic fishing trips.
- FULLY LOADED ACCESSORIES: Our kayak comes equipped with 2 ergonomic aluminum frame seats, 2 adjustable aluminum paddles, 2 waterproof hatches, 4 built in rod holders, 2 paddle parks, and 1 bungee cargo tie down. We have all the accessories you need for your next excursion.
- CRAFTED FOR STABILITY: Our Roto Molded single Piece High density polyethylene material is superior to inflatable kayaks and a capable craft on ocean, lake, or river, while supporting up to 770 lbs. Our kayak will remain balanced even in choppy waters or swift currents thanks to its 34-inch beam, and it offers superb stability for fishing in all sorts of conditions.
- BUILT-IN FISHING ROD HOLDERS: 2 flush-mount rod holders and 2 articulating rod holders can keep multiple baited lines in the water at once or just keep the rods out of your way during paddling. Whatever your preference, convenience is always an option.
- WATER RESISTANT STORAGE: Keep all your valuables dry inside the BKC TK122U's dual watertight storage hatches. With one for each seat, your gear is always in reach. The rear cargo space with bungee cord will hold all of your fishing stuff and outdoor gear.
- The roomy, two-person design maintains the maneuverability of its smaller sibling, while adding stability | Can be configured for a solo paddler with installation of 4 deck loops
- Product dimensions – 162” L x 34” W | Deck height – 15.5” | Weight – 78 lbs. | Weight limit – 550 lbs. | Scuppers – 6
- One-piece rotational-molded kayak | Paddles are not included | Perfect for all skill levels
- Can be used on lakes, ocean bays, light surf or even slow moving rivers | Large rear open storage for cooler and other gear | Additional mold-in center seat for the kids or dog
- Roomy molded-in seat is easy for anyone to get in and out | Removable padded seat and backrest with adjustable support | Multiple footrest options accommodate paddlers of all sizes
- THE PERFECT KAYAK FOR OUTDOOR FUN: Our Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC TK219K tandem kayak has extra space to fit 3 - making it ideal for paddling with kids on family adventures and epic fishing trips.
- FULLY LOADED ACCESSORIES: Our kayak comes equiped with 2 soft padded seats, 2 adjustable aluminum paddles, 2 waterproof hatches, 6 built in rod holders, 2 paddle parks, and 1 bungee cargo tie down. We have all the accessories you need for your next excursion.
- CRAFTED FOR STABILITY: Our Roto Molded single Piece High density polyethylene material is superior to inflatable kayaks and a capable craft on ocean, lake, or river, while supporting up to 595 lbs. Our kayak will remain balanced even in choppy waters or swift currents thanks to its 34-inch beam, and it offers superb stability for fishing in all sorts of conditions.
- BUILT-IN FISHING ROD HOLDERS: 4 flush-mount rod holders and 2 articulating rod holders allow you and your fellow fisherman to keep multiple baited lines in the water at once or just keep the rods out of your way during paddling. Whatever your preference, convenience is always an option.
- WATER RESISTANT STORAGE: Keep all your valuables dry inside the BKC TK219K's dual watertight storage hatches. With one for each seat, your gear is always in reach. The rear cargo space with bungee cord will hold all of your fishing stuff and outdoor gear.
- Multi-chine flat bottom hull with keel extension: Feel ultra stable with this proven hull design known for its smooth and stable ride. The keel extension increases the hull tracking efficiency.
- Patented Ram-X material!: Crafted from a strong and feather-light material, this kayak is ideal for any level of paddling experience.
- Ergofit seating: Enjoy a comfortable and efficient seating position thanks to the soft cushioning and the adjustability of the Ergofit seating system.
- Adjustable footrests: The adjustable footrests offer complete support that can be adapted to fit paddlers, both big and small, with ease.
- Multiple storage zones: Ensure that you're fully equipped for any journey, whether short or long, with a waterproof hatch located at the back, a bungee tie-down at the front, and a convenient cockpit bottle holder on the inside.
- Upgraded Features: Additional storage in this tandem kayak includes quick lock hatch and a tank well equipped with bungee cords. It's also equipped with molded footrests, two bottle holders and four accessory eyelets for your convenience.
- Stable: The twin-arched multi-chine hull offers excellent stability giving you a secure and steady ride. It also makes it incredibly easy to get in and out of the kayak.
- Safe: Our unique manufacturing process allows us to include additional flotation inside the hull of all of our sit-on-tops in order to meet or surpass ABYC standards. Holds a maximum capacity of 500 lb. Don't worry, the added scupper holes at the bottom of the kayak are completely safe and help drain any excess water that might get into your watercraft. Along with a flat hull type design, it ensures you peace of mind during your ride.
- Comfortable: The adjustable ERGOFIT G2seating system is specially designed with thicker ergonomic padding to provide targeted cushioning and better air flow. An additional molded middle seat provides enough room for any small child, pet, or extra gear you might want to bring with you.
- Lightweight: Our kayaks being made with exceptionally durable high molecular density polyethylene, less material is needed to produce each boat. Weighing 73 lb, this tandem kayak is lighter than our competitors which makes it easier to transport.
- Recreational Tandem Kayak – 12’2ft 2 Person Kayak is perfect for Fishing, Travel, or Family Recreation - 500 pound weight capacity can accommodate two paddlers + center seat for child, dog or solo paddling.
- Tough and Rugged Design – Hull is constructed from single piece rotomolded UV Resistant high density polyethylene for unmatched strength and durability. This hard kayak is bulit to last all your adventures.
- Fully Outfitted – Our kayaks for adults hard shell comes loaded with great features: 4 flush mount capped rod holders and 2 mounting points for scotty accessories, rear tankwell storage with bungee, dual watertight storage hatches with inserts and built in cup holders. 4 fixed carry handles for easy transportation, two paddle park holders to secure paddles when not in use, and molded center cockpit seat.
- Fishing Kayaks for Adults - This tandem kayak hard shell is the perfect piece for you fishing adventures. It comes with all the accessories needed for a great evening in your favourite lake or river.
- Package Includes – (2) adjustable eva padded seats w/ high back support, (2) anodized aluminum performance kayak paddles with ergonomic grips and (8) scupper plugs for self bailing ports
- This best-selling tandem offers performance for pairs
- Converts with ease to solo use for a great day on the water
- Features a signature rounded hull that delivers swift acceleration, helping you paddle longer distances faster
- Phase 3 AirPro seats - fully adjustable, ergonomic seating with ventilated mesh to keep you cooler
- Thigh and knee padding for comfortable support and optimal boat control
- Large, padded foot rests for support and comfort; easy to adjust locking lever to accommodate paddlers of different heights
- Dry storage hatch in rear to keep your gear secure and dry
- Stern bulkhead foam adds extra buoyancy on the water; bulkheads are a safety feature often not found in less expensive kayaks
- Boat Length: 13' 6" | Cockpit Dimensions: 90" x 24" | Boat Weight: 72 lbs.
- Max Capacity: 500 lbs.; Sport type: Kayaking
- Enjoy sun and surf with a friend or a furry companion with the kayak's three seating positions, which support solo, tandem, or tandem paddling With a child or pet.
- A pair of comfort Plus seats provide four-way adjustability, Generating a custom fit and greater slip prevention over molded seats.
- Patented overlapping foot wells allow centre-seated paddlers to settle in and brace their feet comfortably.
- The open, sit-on-top hull makes it easy to get on and off the kayak and includes a pair of molded-in handles and skid plate.
- Usable weight capacity of 362 pounds; Measures 12 Feet long and 34 inches wide. Lifetime on the hull.
- Molded-in side carrying handles and bow/stern toggle handles
- Skid plate
- Screw-in drain plug
- OPTIONS: Up to three round Gaspachi hatches (bow, center, stern)
- BUILT TO LAST: Constructed with a rotomold injected body to ensure your tandem kayak will never crack or puncture and will last for years to come!
- EASY TO TRANSPORT: Two carry handles allow for convenient transportation in our kayaks for adults. Fits easily in the bed of a truck or a trailer!
- PLENTY OF STORAGE: An air tight compartment, two storage areas located on each end of the kayak along with a designated platform for ice chests means you will never have to leave anything at shore while using your fishing kayak!
- ACCESSORIES: Includes everything you need to hit the water including two seats, kayak fishing rod holders, kayak paddles for adults and bungee cords! All you need to do is find the lake! Ideal as a 2 person kayak.
- DIMENSIONS: 12.2 feet in length and 3 feet wide; large enough for two people and all the gear you need!
- Portable and Easy to Use: With a high pressure hand pump, the Beyond Marina Inflatable Kayak with Drop Stitch Bottom inflates to a full size kayak in less than 5 minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous adventures. Hull lightweight design at 25.35 lb allows for easy transport and maneuvering.
- Share Adventurer with Ease: Our Tandem Kayak comfortably fits two person with a weight capacity of 507 lb, allowing you to share your water adventures with a friend or loved one. With an exterior size of 12.5' x 36.5" x16.95" and a drop stitch bottom construction, you'll enjoy ultimate balance and stability on calm or choppy waters, giving you the peace of mind to focus on your adventure.
- Built to Last: Made with reinforced double layered PVC, the ADVENTURER Kayak is designed for durability and puncture resistance, even in challenging water conditions. Its high-pressure drop-stitch bottom and tri-chamber construction further enhance stability, making it a sturdy and reliable choice for all your kayaking needs.
- EVERYTHING INCLUDED: Our Kayak offers exceptional value for its price, including everything you need to get started. The package includes a blow up kayak, seat, quick-release fin, high-pressure pump, storage bag, and repair kit, as well as 2 x adjustable EVA padded seats, 2 x aluminum kayak paddles with ergonomic grip handles, 2 x adjustable footrests, and 2 x fins.
- SECOND TO NONE SERVICE: Tri-chamber construction serves for ultimate balance & stability while kayaking. As a brand player, we always stand behind our products. Just paddle around and enjoy the outdoors with the support of BEYOND MARINA's 24/7 commitment.
- 【2 Person Heavy Duty Kayak】GYMAX tandem kayak is made of water-resistant & puncture-proof reinforced laminated PVC, which is leak-free and could hold up to 507lbs. Measuring 12.5ft, this inflatable kayak could accommodate 2 adults comfortably.
- 【Cozy Fishing & Touring on Water】Coming with 2 padded EVA seat with backrest and 3-position footrest, GYMAX kayak would enable you have great time on water. The seats are adjustable and removable for flexible space use.
- 【Easy Setup】A hand pump will come with the kayak, helping to inflate the fishing kayak. Meanwhile, 3 independent air chambers make inflation and deflation and easier and faster.
- 【Portable Design】Featuring a carry handle, this 39lbs kayak is easy to move around. The aluminum paddles are also detachable, which could be separated into 3 sections. When deflated, the whole set could be stored in the included carry bag for transport.
- 【Complete Set & Storage Bag】GYMAX kayak set includes a 2-person kayak, 2 aluminum paddles, 2 seats with backrests, 2 fins, 1 carrying bag and 1 repair kit. And the zipper bag behind seats and bungee cords at front part of the boat offers convenient storage space.
- 【V420 2-PERSON】Inflated size is 13.8 x 2.95 x 0.79 feet with a weight capacity of 395 pounds and easily foldable to be put in the duffel bag that allows for easy transportation. Made of heavy duty vinyl, the kayak will be with you longer.
- 【Protected Journey】Built with durable vinyl materials with an drop-stitch floor to increase rigidity that withstands the unexpected outdoor elements. 3-chamber constracter add extra safety. Halkey-Roberts valves can withstand better pressure, easy to use and leak-free. Multiple safeguards to help you kayak safely.
- 【Enjoy Comfort】Drop-stitch floor could provide more rigidty and support than I-beam floor, and the surface will be flatter for you to sit. Padded EVA seat provides superior back support, footrest ensures a relaxed sitting position. Drain hole will drain out excess water timely. Always keep you in comfort.
- 【On Your Track】High-density drop-stitch core ensures rigidty, removable direction fin provides excellent stability to improve your kayaking efficiency, the 4-piece kayak paddle is also easy to use. Excellent maneuverability and stability could take you anywhere you want.
- 【Easy to Use】Easy to inflate and deflate with the Halkey-Roberts valves, easy to clean with the detachable floor design. And with the included duffel bag, it's convenient to transport. Hike-in, inflate, and enjoy kayaking in remote areas.
- 2 PERSON KAYAK: The Driftsun Rover 220 tandem kayak features a front and rear rocker profile, so you can maneuver and navigate through calm or rough water with less tracking. The foldable kayak inflates fully in 6 mins & seats 2 adults (600lbs max).
- WHAT’S IN THE BAG: Rover 220 inflatable kayak, 2 adjustable EVA padded seats, 2 adjustable aluminum kayak paddles, double action inflation hand pump, removable tracking fin & spacious travel backpack for all included kayaking equipment
- ULTIMATE COMFORT: Constructed with reinforced double layered PVC, this enables the 2 person kayak to handle obstacles in rough waterways. The high-pressure dropstitch floor boosts stability & sturdiness
- ADVENTURE READY: This folding kayak delivers unmatched stability in rough water compared to low-pressure kayaks for adults. Handles class III & IV rapids with speed and control. Features 8 self-bailing ports, tie-down points & front action camera mount
- SIT IN TANDEM KAYAK SPECS: Exterior 12.6ft (L) x 38in (W) x 1in (H) / Weight: 28 Lbs. / Capacity: 600 Lbs. 2 Adults + child, gear or a furry friend / Inflation Pressure: 3 PSI (side tubes) & 6 PSI (floor)
- Built-in aluminum ribs define the bow and stern and improves tracking
- Three layers of material for extreme puncture resistance.Folded size 35 X 21 X 12 inches. Max Weight-550 pounds. Weight-52 pounds
- Pre-assembled at the factory; simply unfold, inflate, and attach the seats
- High support, adjustable padded seats provide comfort for hours of paddling
- Three seat locations allow for paddling solo or tandem
- OPTIONAL DECK with Honey Comb Rip Stop Fabric Attach the optional Single Deck or Double Deck kit
- At just over 14-feet long and with a total weight of 25-pounds, the Deschutes 145 inspires confidence with its lightweight, rigid design built to perform and provide effortless paddling for two people on lakes, rivers, and other waterways.
- DIMENSIONS: 14’-7” (446 cm) L x 38” (96.5 cm) W x 10.5” (26.7 cm) H x 10″ tube diameter.
- CAPACITY: 2-person | 600 lb. (272 kg) max weight.
- BEST FOR: tandem 2-person touring and expeditions.
- HULL WEIGHT: 25.3 lbs / 11.5 kgs
- INFLATES QUICKLY: The Driftsun Voyager Tandem Kayak inflates to a full size kayak (10ft. x 35” x 16”) in less than 5 minutes with the included deluxe high flow double action hand pump. Go from garage, to trunk, to water in no time!
- COMPACT & MANEUVERABLE: When deflated for transport this portable kayak measures only 26”(L) x 16”(W) x 8”(H) and fits nicely into the included carry bag. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle by one person, weighing in at only 27 lbs.
- DURABLE DESIGN: Heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin bottom provides durable protection from punctures, making the Driftsun inflatable tandem kayak the prefect companion for all your adventures. Double Threaded Boston valves are guaranteed not to leak, and tough 840D coated nylon oxford fabric top cover is rip and tear resistant.
- SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE: Rocker profile and pointed nose entry (bow) delivers excellent performance in both calm and choppy waters on this folding kayak. Removable deep fin provides responsive tracking, rear drain plug for easy draining/cleaning and High Quality EVA padded seats offer High-back support for hours of comfortable cruising.
- EVERYTHING INCLUDED! – Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak, (2) Adjustable EVA padded seats, (2) Aluminum kayak paddles with ergonomic grip handles, Deluxe double action hand pump, Rear tracking fin, and Travel bag.
- Optimized for hull speed and paddling efficiency, the Chelan 140 is perfect for tandem outings, larger solo paddlers, or carrying extra gear.
- DIMENSIONS: 13’6” (413 cm) L x 35” (89 cm) W x 12” (30.5 cm) H x 10.5″ tube diameter.
- CAPACITY: 1 or 2-person | 400 lb. (181 kg) max weight.
- BEST FOR: 1 or 2-person performance touring
- HULL WEIGHT: 35 lbs / 15.8 kgs
- EASY TRANSPORT – Lightweight and compact, this kayak is easy to assemble and, with the Boston valve, it inflates and deflates in minutes; paddles come apart and the pieces can be conveniently stored with the boat in the included carrying bag allowing you to take the fun of kayaking wherever you go
- READY FOR ADVENTURE – Explorer K2 Kayak is great for experiencing lakes and mild rivers with a friend, this kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling, with the bright yellow color and sporty graphics this makes the kayak highly visible in the water
- STABILITY – Made with rugged vinyl construction and built for performance, this sturdy kayak has an inflatable I-beam floor, a low-profile deck, and high-buoyancy side chambers for stability, comfort, and function; the removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement
- 2-PERSON CAPACITY – The Explorer K2 is a two person capacity kayak with a 400 pound maximum weight capacity. When fully inflated the kayak measures at 10.3 feet X 3 feet X 1.8 feet
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two inflatable seats with backrests, heavy-duty grab handles with grab lines, two quick-fill Bonston valves, high-output pump and one repair patch
How to choose a good lightweight tandem kayaks
Does the idea of finding a fantastic lightweight tandem kayaks make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in lightweight tandem kayaks. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top lightweight tandem kayaks products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top lightweight tandem kayaks on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top lightweight tandem kayaks brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top lightweight tandem kayaks based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the lightweight tandem kayaks were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good lightweight tandem kayaks, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your lightweight tandem kayaks.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting lightweight tandem kayaks for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our lightweight tandem kayaks. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what lightweight tandem kayaks should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on lightweight tandem kayaks.
