Updated November 1, 2022
The allure of kayaking is unmistakable. It’s fun! It’s adventurous! It can be a great workout and a chance to commune with nature and enjoy the fresh air and wildlife. What’s better than that? How about making it more social by doing some tandem paddling with a friend, spouse, or family member?
Tandem canoes are often longer and heavier but now you’ve got two to handle the load of portage. You’ve also got a partner to share the paddling and the experience.
There are tandem kayaks set up for a range of environments from calm lakes, to oceans, and river rapids. Maybe you would like to do some camping, go on a picnic, or catch a few fish. Models are available to handle all these and some even accommodate extra passengers like a child or your trusty dog.
Many tandem kayaks are on the market in various lengths, weights, and configurations. To make your selection process easier, 10 of the top models from the diverse range available are described below. Each has its key features outlined, photos, and videos, followed by a comparison table, and a basic buying guide to help you make your choice.
If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know in the comments section at the bottom. I’d love to know your thoughts.
For some other reviews of kayaks and boats, please check out these posts:
Marine VHF Radios / Small Outboard Motors / Kayak Trolling Motors / Kayak Fish Finders / Marine GPS / Marine Binoculars / Touring Kayaks / Whitewater Kayaks for Beginners / Lake Kayaks / Ocean Kayaks / Fishing Kayaks / Beginner Kayaks / Recreational Kayaks / Inflatable Kayaks / Inflatable Boats / Canoes
Best Tandem Kayak Review
- Ocean Kayak Zest Tandem Expedition Ocean Kayak
- Intex Explorer K2 Tandem Inflatable Kayak
- Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL
- Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible Tandem
- Sevylor Coleman Colorado Tandem Fishing Kayak
- BKC TK219 Tandem Fishing Kayak
- Aquaglide Columbia 145 XL Tandem
- Lifetime Manta 10 Foot Tandem
- Airhead Montana Tandem Inflatable Kayak
- Sea Eagle 370 Pro Tandem Inflatable Kayak
Ocean Kayak Zest Two Expedition Ocean Kayak
The Ocean Zest Two Expedition is a long narrow tandem great for ocean touring.
Well set up with comfortable 4-way adjustable seats and molded foot braces for paddlers of different sizes, there is ample storage in open tank wells with bungees front and back.
Each side has paddle holders and there are grab handles around the kayak for easy portage.
The manufacturer shows confidence in the durable polyethylene construction with a lifetime warranty on the hull.
- Weight capacity of 600 pounds
- 2 paddlers
- Single-layer polyethylene construction
- 4-way adjustable seat
- Molded foot braces
- Molded cup holders
- Skid plate
- Screw-in drain plug
- Large front and rear tank well with bungees
- Paddle holders on each side
- Bow and stern grab handles, side-mounted carry handles
- Lifetime warranty on the hull
- Length: 16 feet 4.5 inches, Width: 31 inches
- Weight: 75 pounds
- Price: $$$
Intex Explorer K2 Tandem Kayak
At a super low price, the Intex Explorer K2 works well for one or two paddlers on lakes and mild streams.
The durable vinyl construction and 3 air chamber design for safety have a bright yellow color for visibility.
It is easy to set up and lightweight for easy portage in its carry bag, with a low-profile design, comfortable seating, and a removable skeg for effective tracking.
- Weight capacity of 400 pounds
- 2 paddlers
- Rugged vinyl construction
- 3 air chambers
- Inflatable I-beam floor
- Quick inflation/deflation using Boston valves on each side
- Removable skeg
- 2 adjustable seats with backrests
- Grab line and handles at each end
- 6 mesh pockets for storage
- Includes two aluminum oars, high-output pump for easy inflation/deflation, repair patch kit, and carry bag
- Length: 10 feet, Width: 36 inches
- Weight: 31 pounds
- Price: $
Great for a family outing for a couple and child that can be configured for a solo paddler, as well, the Ocean Kayak Malibu
Two XL is a stable and durable platform with a well-defined keel for excellent tracking.
With ample dry storage and bungees fore and aft, it is well set up for a day of paddling on a lake or mild-flowing river.
- Weight capacity of 500 pounds
- 2 paddlers
- Rotomolded polyethylene construction
- Keel protector
- Molded-in seats with pads and backrests
- Molded footwells and calf rests
- Molded-in paddle holders
- Up to 3 dry storage areas
- Bungee storage fore and aft
- Screw-in drain plate
- Bow and stern toggle handles and molded-in side handles
- Available in 5 color patterns
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Length: 13 feet 4 inches, Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 61 pounds
- Price: $$$
Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible Tandem
The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible is an easy-to-set-up and take-down 15-foot inflatable with an improved valve design.
The durable 3-layer material is mounted on a frame defined by aluminum ribs that can be quickly converted from solo to tandem.
With comfortable seating, plenty of legroom, and ample storage, you’re in for great days of solo or tandem paddling on the lake of your choice.
- Weight capacity of 550 pounds
- 2 paddlers
- Puncture resistant with 3 layers of double-coated material
- Aluminum ribs built into the bow and stern
- Adjustable high-support padded seats
- 3 seat locations for single or tandem paddling
- Substantial storage space
- Bungee webbing in front
- Carry handles fore and aft
- Easy to set up
- Easy-to-use inflation/deflation valves
- Optional single and double-deck conversion
- Comes in red or green
- Length: 15 feet, Width: 32 inches
- Weight: 52 pounds
- Price: $$$
View More From Advanced Elements
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Tandem Fishing Kayak
A moderately-priced lightweight inflatable, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado is great for a day of solo or tandem paddling on the lake fishing, or touring.
Easy to set up and transport, it has durable PVC construction with multiple air chambers that provide a safety backup in the rare event of leakage or a puncture.
With adjustable seats and storage in mesh pockets and with D-rings, it also has rod and paddle holders freeing up your hands to go about the business of gearing up and fishing for that record muskie.
For the serious fisherman, a mount for an optional trolling motor is also provided.
- Weight capacity of 470 pounds
- 2 paddlers
- Rugged 18 gauge PVC construction
- 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover
- Multiple chambers
- Paddle holders
- 2 adjustable rod holders
- Double-threaded Boston valve for easy inflation/deflation
- Trolling motor fittings
- Mesh pockets for storage
- D-rings
- Carry bag
- 1-year warranty
- Length: 10 feet 9 inches, Width: 39 inches
- Weight: 41.2 pounds
- Price: $$
BKC TK219 Tandem Fishing Kayak
The BKC TK219 is a durable, comfortable, moderately-priced, stable platform for 2-3 paddlers.
Set up for fishing with 6 rod holders, paddle holders, 2 dry hatches, and rear storage well, it has comfortable padded seats for two for a calm day on the lake fishing and paddling.
- Weight capacity of 440 pounds
- 2-3 paddlers
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) construction
- 2 soft padded seats
- 4 flush-mount and 2 adjustable rod holders
- Front and rear waterproof storage hatches
- 2 paddles included
- Integrated paddle holders
- Front, rear, and side carry handles
- Molded footrests
- Bungees over the rear storage well
- Bungees in the front
- Available in 6 color patterns
- Length: 12 feet 24 inches, Width: 3 inches
- Weight: 70 pounds
- Price: $$$
Aquaglide Columbia 145 XL Tandem
The Aquaglide Columbia 145 XL is an excellent inflatable for recreational flatwater touring.
This 15-footer has room for two on the comfortable seating and there is space in between for a kid on a child saddle.
The inflatable floor is rigid like that of a solid boat, and there are ample bungee storage and even 4 fishing rod holders.
Lightweight and easy to set up, it comes with a quick-release tracking fin, repair kit, and backpack
- Weight capacity of 600 pounds
- 2 paddlers, 3rd passenger possible
- Blended Duratex and 600 D polyester hull
- Rigid inflatable floor
- 2 core seats with high backrests
- Center child saddle seat
- Fore and aft splash-guards
- Sturdy molded handles
- Bungee storage fore and aft
- Accessory straps
- 4 rod holders
- Quick-release fin
- Travel backpack
- Repair kit
- 1-year limited warranty
- Length: 15 feet, Width: 36 inches
- Weight: 42 pounds
- Price: $$
The Lifetime 10 Foot model is relatively short for a sit-on-top tandem that will work well for a solo, and a third rider may also be added.
It has “high and dry” comfortable adjustable seating with padded backrests and footrests and a tunnel hull design that tracks well for use in fast or slow water and is remarkably stable.
Two paddles are included in the package that comes with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
- Weight capacity of 500 pounds
- 2-3 paddlers
- UV-protected high-density polyethylene (HDPE) rotational molded construction
- 3 adjustable seating positions with 2 padded backrests
- Multiple footrest positions
- Molded front and rear carry handles
- Shock cord straps, ditty trays, and a cargo area in the front for storage
- Self-bailing cockpit drainage holes
- 2 paddles included
- Choice of green or yellow
- 5-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Length: 10 feet, Width: 36 inches
- Weight: 60 pounds
- Price: $$
Airhead Montana Tandem Inflatable Kayak
Designed for lakes and moderate whitewater, the Airhead Montana is a durable, lightweight, easily portable inflatable.
It has two removable seats, neoprene elbow guards, and spray guards for a comfortable ride.
Four fins on the bottom aid in tracking, 6 D-rings, and elastic cord fore and aft give you a place to secure baggage, and 3 air chambers allow a margin of safety in the rare incidence of a puncture or leakage.
The bright orange color alerts all to your presence on this reasonably priced model that will provide years of enjoyable paddling.
- Weight capacity of 500 pounds
- 2 paddlers
- 840 D nylon construction
- Bottom reinforced with trilaminate
- Tubular I-beam floor
- Fore and aft spray covers
- Boston valves for easy inflation/deflation
- 3 air chambers
- Neoprene elbow guards
- 6 D-rings and elastic cord both fore and aft to secure gear
- Removable inflatable seats
- Drain hole with a threaded plug
- Grab handles
- High-visibility orange color
- 4 bottom fins for tracking
- 1-year limited warranty
- Length: 12 feet, Width: 32 inches
- Weight: 36.3 pounds
- Price: $$
Sea Eagle 370 Pro Tandem Inflatable Kayak
The Sea Eagle 370 tandem will hold three, inflates and sets up in less than 10 minutes, and can handle class III whitewater.
It has comfortable movable seats and a spray skirt to keep you dry, 2 skegs for maneuverability, and a package that includes 2 paddles, a foot pump, a pressure gauge, a repair kit, and a carry bag for this lightweight, durable kayak.
- Weight capacity of 650 pounds
- 3 paddlers
- Heavy-duty 38mm PolyKrylar (K80 PVC) construction
- Open and close drain valve
- 5 one-way inflation/deflation valves
- 3 air chambers
- 2 movable seats
- Inflatable spray skirts
- 2 paddles, foot pump, pressure gauge, repair kit, and carry bag
- 2 skegs for tracking
- Length: 12 feet 6 inches, Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 32 pounds
- Price: $$
Best Tandem Kayak Comparison Table
| Picture | Kayak | Type | Length | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
  | Ocean Kayak Zest Two Expedition Ocean Kayak | Sit On | 16 feet 4. inches | $$$ |
  | Intex Explorer K2 Tandem Kayak | Sit In/Inflatable | 10 feet | $ |
  | Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL | Sit On | 13 feet 4 inches | $$$ |
  | Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible Tandem | Sit In/Inflatable | 15 feet | $$$ |
  | Sevylor Coleman Colorado Tandem Fishing Kayak | Sit In/Inflatable | 10 feet 9 inches | $$ |
  | BKC TK219 Tandem Fishing Kayak | Sit On | 12 feet 2 inch | $$$ |
  | Aquaglide Columbia 145 XL Tandem | Sit In/Inflatable | 15 feet | $$ |
  | Lifetime Manta 10 Foot Tandem | Sit On | 10 feet | $$ |
  | Airhead Montana Tandem Inflatable Kayak | Sit In/Inflatable | 12 feet | $$ |
  | Sea Eagle Pro 370 Tandem | Sit In/Inflatable | 12 feet 6 inches | $$ |
| Picture | Kayak | Type | Length | Price |
Tandem Kayak Buying Guide
Weight
Tandem kayaks tend to weigh more than solo models with a range of roughly 30 to 100 pounds. You need to make sure you have the capability of carrying it to and from the water and place of transport. Inflatable models weigh considerably less and pack up into small bags for easy transport. Tandem kayaking has the benefit of having the strength of two people available for this process.
Weight Capacity
Each kayak is rated for maximum capacity. For a safe ride, you need to make sure that the weight of the paddlers, any other passengers, and all the gear and baggage does not exceed this number. The models reviewed here have weight capacities in the 400 to 650-pound range. There are those available rated at 800 pounds or more. For two large men on a camping and fishing expedition along with their baggage and gear, it may require a large capacity.
Length and Width
Longer kayaks are generally less maneuverable but better at tracking a straight course and handling waves and more suitable for touring. Shorter models turn more easily. Wider models tend to be more stable which is a valued feature of tandem kayaks.
Types of Kayaks
Kayaks can be solid, made of various materials, or inflatable. Inflatable models are lightweight and have the capability of being packed up into a bag easy to transport and store. Inflatables and solid models both are made in sit-in or sit-on-top designs. Sit-in models position your legs and feet inside the cockpit area placing you in low-profile seating. Sit-on-top kayaks are more open and allow for simplified access into the water and back on board again providing a more open feel.
For a more detailed discussion, click here: How to Choose a Kayak.
For some other reviews of kayaks and boats, please check out these posts:
Marine VHF Radios / Small Outboard Motors / Kayak Trolling Motors / Kayak Fish Finders / Marine GPS / Marine Binoculars / Touring Kayaks / Whitewater Kayaks for Beginners / Lake Kayaks / Ocean Kayaks / Fishing Kayaks / Beginner Kayaks / Recreational Kayaks / Inflatable Kayaks / Inflatable Boats / Canoes
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