Regardless of their shape or size, sea kayaks are perfect for exploring coastal waterways nearby. The following are some of the best sea kayaks available in Australia.
Although this continent has nearly 16,000 miles of shoreline, there are plenty of places for sea kayaking. Before heading out into the ocean, you should be confident in your boat and your paddling skills.
It’s not uncommon for protected bays to be subject to things like tides and ocean currents. When paddling in the best recreational kayak on a calm lake, you might not need as much preparation as if you were paddling in these environmental factors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best sea kayaks Australia.
7 Best Sea Kayak Australia
[wptb id=66562]1. Sevylor Tahiti Plus 2+1 Man Canadian Canoe Inflatable Sea Kayak, 361 x 90 cm
Specification
- Item weight: 11.7 Kilograms
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride
- Brand: Sevylor
- Style: Tahiti Plus
There’s no limit to the number of passengers that can be transported in the Sevylor Tahiti Plus. It can accommodate two adults and one child or furry friend. A kayak’s inflatable nature makes it ideal for paddling in calm saltwater bays and protected inland waterways. The inflatable design, however, allows it to be compressed very small for easier transportation and storage. The kayak also comes with a backpack-style carrying bag, making it much easier to carry down to the water before inflating it.
As a result of its PVC construction, the kayak has three internal buoyancy chambers that provide continued buoyancy in case one chamber becomes compromised. A skeg system designed by Sevylor can be attached to the bottom of this kayak to improve tracking, but it must be purchased separately. Within about ten minutes of arriving at your paddling destination, you can inflate this kayak and get started. This kayak comes with three seats that can be removed and repositioned as needed, so it can accommodate up to three passengers as well as one.
Features
- This stable kayak can carry two adults and one child, and is ideal for lakes, fishing, or camping, with its wide shape combining stability and comfort. The bow and stern have integrated spray decks.
- Featuring a PVC hull, two PVC side chambers, and a floor chamber with i-beam construction, the compact Canadian canoe offers high stability and safety.
- This Kayak is 361 x 90 cm, with a maximum load capacity of 200 kg; repairs included. Please make sure to inflate the Kayak only on even surfaces with caution.
- A backpack system is included with the canoe so that it can be transported more easily
- Paddle comfortably on both inflatable kayak seats; integrated gauge provides accurate inflation; easy-to-adjust and remove.
2. ADVANCED ELEMENTS Lagoon 1 Kayak
Specification
- Item weight: 23 Pounds
- Material: Rip-stop Polyester/PVC Tarpaulin
- Brand: ADVANCED ELEMENTS
- Seating capacity: 1
- Colour: Orange/Gray
One of the leading brands in the inflatable kayak industry, Advanced Elements offers a Lagoon model that is ideal for bay paddling on a casual basis. One of the lightest models on our list, it’s a little small for open waters, but it has the benefit of being one of the most compact.
Because of its fold-down design, it’s easy to transport when you can’t park right next to your launch location and can even fit in the trunk of a smaller sedan or SUV. Inflating it doesn’t take more than ten minutes when you’re ready to use it, however. With its rigid panels, unlike most inflatable kayaks, the Lagoon 1 has more structure and improves overall performance. Also, the kayak is covered with thicker material on the outside to enhance its stiffness and reduce abrasion when you pull up to rocky shores.
Explore More: 9 Best Inflatable kayak Australia – Buyer’s Guide
Features
- Added stiffness and abrasion resistance are provided by the inner tube cover.
- An owner’s manual, inflatable kayak, duffel bag, repair kit, folding seat, and owner’s manual are included with the kayak.
- Setup is easy with Twistlok valves and spring valves that allow for quick and easy installation.
- Seat integrated into kayak for maximum comfort and performance – This inflatable kayak has a seat built into it to provide maximum comfort and performance.
- Designed with a unique outer cover that provides durability and lightness.
- The bow and stern are defined by built-in rigid panels that improve tracking and define the bow and stern.
- The dimensions are: length: 8’4″, width: 34″, and weight: 23 lbs (10 kg).
- Tracking fins and landing plates improve the performance of the hull.
- Capacity – Maximum. Weight 113 kg (250 lb)
3. Pakayak Bluefin 14 Ft Kayak, The Only Hardshell Packable Kayak – Packs Down into Included Rolling Bag That Fits Inside of Your Trunk! Nests into Itself for Ultimate Portability and Storage!
Specification
- Weight: 59 Pounds
- Batteries Included? No
- Color: Surf
- Manufacturer: Pakayak, LLC
- Brand: Pakayak
With its Pakayak Bluefin Sea Kayak, you can paddle in any body of water, from lakes to rivers to oceans. The buoyancy of the buoy remains stable in salt and freshwater alike because it cuts through waves like a knife.
With a weight of 59 pounds and a length of 14 feet, the Pakyak Bluefin is an extremely stable kayak. The bag has plenty of space to store all of your weekend essentials, as well as some extra space for your small valuables. There are no problems maneuvering this kayak with its double-chined hull and pedal rudder system. Thanks to the rudder that can be stowed away, even if it is used in shallow waters, its performance will not be compromised. When you’re craving fresh fish once in a while, you may want to use it as a fishing kayak, too. Designed for kayakers who need a kayak that is very stable and maneuverable, yet offers lots of space and control, the Pakayak Bluefin is a good choice.
Also Read: 10 Best Fishing Kayak – Buyer’s Guide
Features
- A portable / packable design that can be assembled by anyone in less than 3 minutes without having to worry about losing small loose parts. Place in your closet, fit in your trunk, and take with you wherever you go.
- An innovative shape modeled after the Bluefin tuna, one of the world’s fastest fish, makes the Bluefin 14 a fast, stable sea kayak. Guaranteed leak-free!
- A leak-proof rigid kayak has been designed using technology from aerospace and underwater product designs. UV-resistant rigid high-density polyethylene for kayaks. It is easy to turn, turn around, surf and control the boat thanks to its double-chined hull.
- The product specs include a one-person sit-in rigid hull sea kayak that clamps together (6 pieces) and has a patented 1200 lbs of force pulling each section together. A large watertight hatch for dry storage. It is comfortable to ride on the foam seat. A cockpit measuring 18″ by 34″ fits a spray skirt measuring XL. Wheeled ballistic nylon bag. This unit measures 168″L x 24″W x 16″H / 427 x 61 x 41 cm when assembled, and 42″L x 24″W x 16″H / 107 x 61 x 41 cm when nested.
- The models are named after endangered marine species and a percentage of profits go to saving that species. A proudly American product.
4. Pedal Pro Fish XL – 4m Pedal-Powered Fishing Kayak
Specification
- Brand: Bay Sports
- Item weight: 32010 Grams
- Colour: Blue/Black Camo
You should consider the Pedal Pro Fish XL if you plan on ocean fishing in bays, harbors, or other protected waterways. So you don’t have to use your hands when casting or reeling in your next catch, you can propel it with your feet. In addition to the cockpit, the fishing kayak is equipped with a stern rudder system that allows you to control the boat manually from the comfort of the cockpit. Kayak paddles are almost unnecessary since you can pedal the kayak with your feet, which makes it possible to steer the kayak while pedaling (though we advise bringing one along for safety).
It even comes with a built-in fishfinder transducer and six track rails that run from the bow to the stern of the kayak. Rails like these can easily be attached to a kayak GPS unit, GoPro camera, or portable depth finder. Additionally, the Pedal Pro has a luxurious stadium-style seat with added width and length for supreme comfort. Seats even have tracks so they can slide forward and backward based on legroom requirements.
You might also like: 10 Best Pedal kayak For Fishing – Buyer’s Guide
Features
- You can cast from a standing position with this 85cm wide kayak, which belongs to the extra stable kayak category.
- A spacious and comfortable cockpit, topped off with a first-class Stadium seat, makes it an angler’s dream boat.
- Bay Sports’ high-quality and well-designed pedal kayak is the best value pedal kayak on the market when compared to the other pedal-powered watercraft on the market.
- The 250 kg weight capacity and catamaran-style hull allow you to stand and fish while also supporting the bigger angler with a full day’s worth of gear.
- Fish-finders from Lowrance or Garmin fit well on this kayak, and you can mount them using either a scupper or tracking mount.
- It weighs just 7.5kg, but is powerful enough to propel you effortlessly through the water!
5. Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Inflatable Kayak
Specification
- Item weight: 42 Pounds
- Colour: Ocean Blue
- Material: Polyester
- Brand: ADVANCED ELEMENTS
A great inflatable kayak for touring coastal environments, the Advanced Elements Expedition Elite Sea Kayak is ideal for day trips or weekend trips. The classic touring kayak model may compromise performance, but it delivers portability in spades. Advanced Element’s Expedition is one of the company’s most ambitious products since it is the first inflatable sea kayak to compete in strength with hard shells.
Among all the sea kayaks on the market, the Expedition is the most comfortable once it’s adjusted correctly. For kayakers interested in using their sea kayak in a variety of places, this inflatable kayak can be deflated for more compact transportation. Despite having plenty of cargo space, Expedition kayaks can be cramped for larger kayakers, and anyone taller than 6 feet should consider another model. Because the Expedition is an inflatable kayak, its tracking is worse in more strenuous conditions, such as currents and waves, making it better suited to flatwater lakes and rivers. The Advanced Elements Expedition is an excellent portable kayak for travelers and kayakers searching for a high capacity for gear and equipment.
Features
- The seat has a high back and lumbar support
- A repair kit is included
- Mounting the rudder
- A removable shoulder strap is included with this duffel bag
- There is no pump included
6. Hug – Sit-in Double 5.2m Touring Kayak
Specification
- Item weight: 34000 Grams
- Brand: Bay Sports
- Colour: White/Blue
Whether you are looking for a seaworthy kayak for you and your partner to paddle together or for two people on their own, the Hug Double kayak is an excellent choice. If you’re ready to explore extended kayak camping trips, you can also use this touring kayak for longer paddles. It’s better suited for intermediate-to-advanced paddlers because it’s slightly longer and skinnier. If you’re paddling in adverse weather, it’s equipped with two separate cockpit compartments compatible with kayak spray skirts.
An electric rudder is controlled by foot pedals in the rear cockpit compartment of the boat at the stern. The sit-inside kayak features three waterproof storage compartments that provide plenty of room for your sea kayaking essentials.
Features
- This boat can glide effortlessly through the water due to its rounded, ‘torpedo’ hull design and foot-controlled rudder.
- As a result of the deep blade rudder system, it has excellent tracking properties in windy or strong current conditions.
- A credit to the design team is that the back seat can also be used for solo paddling.
- A two-seat ocean kayak that focuses on comfort, speed, and stability, the Hug has an open cockpit design.
- For beginners just starting out in sea kayaking, this kayak is surprising stable.
- In addition to cruising, fishing, camping, or just having fun exploring, the boat is versatile and has many uses.
7. Riot Kayaks Edge 14.5 LV Flatwater Day Touring Kayak (Yellow/Orange, 14.5-Feet)
Specification
- Size: 14-Feet x 6-Inch
- Construction: Polyethylene
- Color: Yellow/Orange
- Features: Recreational
- Length: 174 inches
In addition to being classified as a day touring kayak by Riot Kayaks, the Edge 14.5 comes with bow and stern hatches for ample storage during overnight trips or weekend trips. With its Polyethylene construction, the Edge 14.5 has withstood the test of time. This boat features an integrated rudder system, a custom seating construction with sliding foot braces, and reflective lifelines.
Whether you’re planning to bring a few changes of clothes or other essentials for a multiday trip, the dry sealed hatches will keep everything waterproof, and additional deck bungees will store the gear you want to access on the water. A wide, comfortable cockpit, excellent handling, and excellent stability make the Edge 14.5 a great choice for flat-water or ocean paddling. In terms of comfort and cost-effectiveness, it’s a great option for beginners and intermediates looking for a comfortable, cost-effective boat for light multiday trips.
Features
- The bow is narrow and the deck line is slim
- The aircraft is equipped with a pilot rudder
- Kayak for day tours that is well-rounded
- Weighs 60 pounds and measures 14.5 feet by 22.5 inches by 12 inches
- Seating system with advanced custom-fit technology
How to choose the best sea kayak Australia?
A sea kayak is an investment that requires a few considerations before you buy one. While you should consider these factors when comparing different sea kayak models, you should prioritize them according to your personal preferences.
1. Kayak Style
In terms of ocean kayak styles, there are a lot of options. Among all the kayaks available, a sit-on-top kayak is best used for bay paddling, a shorter sit-in kayak is best for light touring, a long touring kayak is designed to endure extended expeditions, and even a shorter surfing kayak is ideal for surf paddling. It is important to analyze the specific environments in which you intend to paddle when making your kayak choice. If you’re planning to paddle on the open ocean occasionally and bays elsewhere, you might want to consider a crossover kayak that can accommodate ocean conditions.
Additionally, you can choose between rigid (also known as rotomolded) kayaks and inflatable kayaks. You might find an inflatable to be better suited for casual paddlers who only intend to head out on protected bays for short paddles. You can use inflatable kayaks if you do not have a kayak storage rack at home or if you do not have a way to transport a kayak. You should stick to rigid kayaks for added durability and safety if you plan on paddling open ocean or on longer trips.
2. Number of Paddlers
Also, you might want to consider whether you’ll be spending most of your time alone or with a partner. Inflatable kayaks can usually be converted for one or two paddlers, but rigid kayaks rarely do. With the exception of a few kayaks, most of these are intended for a single paddler. Consider some of the best tandem kayaks if you know you want to paddle with your partner.
3. Primary Activity
When you are spending time out on the water, consider what your primary activity will be. How about a leisurely paddle for a few hours, or do you like to fish from your kayak?
Some people use kayaking as a primary form of exercise and enjoy pushing their cardiovascular limits. Besides that, some of you might be interested in a kayak you can pack for camping trips along Australia’s coastline.
Make sure your kayak has features that will accommodate the purposes you will mostly use it for. A kayak camper who needs to keep some gear dry should have enclosed storage space, but an angler who wants quick access to their fishing gear should have open storage space.
4. Weight and Weight Capacity
Final considerations involve the kayak’s weight and how much cargo it is rated to carry safely. Weight is an important factor both on and off the water when it comes to kayaks. Almost all kayakers spend just as much time working on their kayaks off the water as they do on them. It is therefore important that your kayak does not weigh so much that it makes it difficult to reach the water’s edge.
To make on-land transportation of your kayak a bit easier, you can always invest in the best kayak carts for rough terrain. In general, choosing a kayak with a lower base weight will allow you to load in more gear and supplies without overextending its weight capacity. In addition, all kayaks have an advertised maximum weight capacity that should not be exceeded. If you plan on exceeding the weight limit of your kayak, you’ll need to take into account the weight of yourself, any additional passengers, and any cargo.
The weight capacity of your kayak should also be kept under about 80%. You won’t sink if you exceed 80%, but your kayak will sit lower, be slower, and respond slower to your paddle strokes if you need to maneuver in a hurry.
Frequently asked questions related to the best sea kayak in Australia
What is the best sea touring kayak?
There are several factors that must be taken into account in order to determine which sea touring kayak is right for a particular paddler, such as what the kayak will be used for, where the paddler intends to paddle, and the level of experience of the paddler.
What is kayak touring?
As if kayaking were hiking with a backpack, kayak touring is the water equivalent. It is actually becoming more popular in kayak camps. There are different types of kayak touring, just like hiking:
1. Touring during the day
2. Touring with light luggage
3. Touring over a number of days
4. The expeditions
The difference between these categories is simply how much gear you’re hauling and how long you’ll be touring. You can kayak tour to access remote environments using your own human power, but carry multiple backpacks worth of gear. Kayak touring is a great alternative to hiking since you can access remote environments while using your own human power.
There is some kayak touring trips that are not comparable to glamping (glamorous camping). Choosing food and gear for an expedition requires careful planning. In most touring kayaks equipped with watertight hatches and bulkheads, you can pack a two-burner stove, your most comfortable sleeping pad, and a lot of food for an overnight trip.
The kayak provides a great way to explore remote coastlines and islands that you cannot reach by car or on foot. A unique touring experience must be experienced to be fully appreciated.
How do I balance in a sea kayak?
As a first step, select a kayak with the appropriate stability for your level of experience. For a beginner paddler, a narrow hull feels tippy.
It depends on the design of the hull and whether a kayak has good primary stability or secondary stability. Kayaks with primary stability are stable at first, but if they’re edged too far on one side, they tip very quickly.
Kayaks with good secondary stability may feel tippy at first, but with a softer chine, they can be edged a long way before flipping completely. In addition, how you load the hatches with gear can affect your kayak’s stability. The front and back hatches should be evenly weighted, and you shouldn’t have a lot of heavy items like food and water on one side only.
You should always keep your paddle in the water if you want to feel stable and balanced in your kayak. You will be kept balanced by your paddle, which acts as an outrigger. Paddling is the best way to stay stable in a kayak if you’re feeling unstable.
How fast is a sea kayak?
It is the paddler’s skills and experience that determine how fast and efficiently a sea kayak can be paddled, but it is also the kayak’s features that affect how fast and efficient it can be paddled. Due to the way the finish on the hull glides through the water, fiberglass or thermoformed kayak will travel faster than a roto-molded polyethylene kayak.
As well as moving through the water more efficiently, a kayak with a narrow and longer hull will also provide greater stability. It is also important to note that kayak speed depends on the paddler as well. An average kayaker will travel at about 3.5 miles per hour (or 2.5 knots), whereas a more experienced paddler may be able to reach up to 8 miles per hour if he or she is racing.
Are inflatable kayaks good in the ocean? (Inflatable Sea Kayaks vs. Hardshell)
The performance of inflatable kayaks in the open sea isn’t as good as that of hardshell kayaks. Having an inflatable kayak allows you to easily transport it to your nearest waterway and store it in a bag during transport.
The disadvantage of inflatable kayaks is that they lack the rigidity of hardshell kayaks made from fiberglass. Paddling in the open ocean requires more stability, so rigidity is a very important feature when kayaking. Inflatable kayaks appear more stable because they are wider, but rigidity provides greater stability.
A hardshell boat moves through the water more efficiently than an inflatable kayak because of its width and construction. Long, open-water crossings may be required while kayaking on the ocean, which should only be attempted with a kayak built for speed and distance.
When paddling on the ocean, conditions can change quickly, and paddlers need to be able to move quickly.
Hardshell kayaks offer better steering capabilities than inflatable kayaks. Most will not come with a skeg or rudder system, which allows for greater steering control, though some fins may be fitted for tracking purposes. In the ocean, there are often strong winds and larger waves, which makes steering and navigating more challenging.
It is recommended to purchase inflatable kayaks made from a puncture- and abrasion-resistant materials, such as PVC. The best choice for ocean paddling is a hardshell boat, even though inflatable kayaks come with puncture repair kits and can be easily repaired on the fly.
Conclusion
Here in the above details, we have provided a 100% unbiased review of these products in the 2022 marketplace. I hope so the above how to choose a guide helps you in choosing the best one according to your requirements.