Best Inflatable Kayak for Ocean in 2021 | Top 10 by Editor’s Choice

Nowadays, the most common kayak are inflatable ones. They are preferred for their lightweight, portability, and ease of storage. However, when considering going kayaking, you need to ensure that it can stand different water types. Kayaking in the ocean, for instance, can be very dangerous if you are inexperienced or get a less stable kayak. If you are not an experienced kayaker, do not drift too far from the ocean or get an instructor. An inflatable kayak for the ocean should be stable and very secure.

So if you are thinking of kayaking in the ocean you need to know which is the best inflatable kayak for ocean available in the market within your budget. Learn to compare the various specifications, weight capacity, storage area and more.

If you are in a hurry we did a comparison based on their features and specifications. Take a look at the below to decide which one to buy from the top 5 inflatable kayak for ocean available in the market.

Comparisons on Top 5 Best Inflatable Kayak For Ocean

Things to Consider Before Buying Inflatable Kayak For Ocean

Quality

For an inflatable kayak for the ocean, you need to check its quality. First of all, the kayak needs to be from a well-known company or manufacturer. Popular brands are known for their quality, so you can never go wrong with this. The quality of a kayak will determine how well it can handle all the harsh conditions in the water while ensuring the security of the kayaker. In your purchase, always make sure you do not compromise the quality for any other factor.

Material

The material of any product will determine its sturdiness and strength. The different materials used in making an inflatable kayak include PVC, Pennel Orca, and Nylon material. The PVC material is a durable, soft, and flexible plastic. However, this material is affected by chemicals and extreme temperatures.

The other material is the Pennel Orca material, this material extremely tough and durable. It is ideal for heavy whitewater and rugged use. The nitrylon material is environmental-friendly and it’s stronger than the PVC material. It is also abrasion-resistant and easier to patch. The downside of this material is that it is very heavy.

Safety

When using an inflatable kayak, you need to be extra careful and ensure your safety. Firstly, you need to check whether the kayak is designed for the ocean. Otherwise, using a kayak meant for rivers and lesser dangerous waters in an ocean will be getting you in trouble. You also need to ensure that it is safe and easy to navigate. If you find it difficult to move forward or turn, do not drift far from the shore. Also, you need to determine the stability of the kayak. If it is highly unstable, get another kayak; otherwise, you might flip over in the water, resulting in fatalities. Another safety measure to keep in mind is the separate air chambers. Kayaks with separate air chambers are more secure and safe.

Use and Maintenance

When dealing with inflatable kayaks, always ensure that you know how to maintain them and the tools. Most of them come with a foot pump or a hand pump. These two pumps are easy to use and will get the job done perfectly. You just need to learn and understand how to inflate your kayak. If you have a large kayak, it takes more time to inflate and needs a lot of air. Most pumps take five to eight minutes to inflate a kayak.

Price

Price is an essential determinant when making any purchase. With the increase in manufacturers, there are so many varieties of kayaks, and they vary in price. As you look for the most affordable product, ensure it can stand the test of time and has the specifications you require. Some brands will overprice certain products even if they are not of good quality. You only need to ensure that the quality is standard before making your purchase.

Top 10 Best Inflatable Kayak For Ocean Review

1. Intex Challenger Kayak Inflatable Set With Aluminum Oars

This inflatable ocean kayak is made of heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl and inflatable I-beam floor for rigidity and stability. It comes with an 84-inch aluminum oar, a repair patch, and a Hi output manual hand pump.

The kayak’s inflated size is 9’x2’x1′ with 27.2-pound weight and a maximum capacity of 220 pounds. The inflatable sea kayak is also highly durable, and the welded material comes with eye-catching graphics that improve the safety of your kayak. The comfort of the kayak is impeccable since it comes with an ergonomic, adjustable, and removable seat. You can adjust it to your liking and in the most comfortable position.

The cockpit is designed to provide comfort and maximize space. There is also a cargo net where you can store your extra gear and grab line on both ends of the kayak. The kayak also contains two separate air chambers and has Boston valves that ensure quick inflation and deflation. You only require five minutes to inflate it, and it deflates instantly. The upgrades of this Intex challenger are the challenger K2, Explorer K2, Excursion Pro, and Dakota K2. They are bigger and have a higher weight capacity.

Read More: Best Kayak Paddle Holder of 2021

2. Sea Eagle 370 Pro 3 Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak

This 3 person ocean kayak is the perfect sport kayak since it is lightweight and portable. Get this kayak, and you will not be disappointed by its stability and durability. The inflatable kayak’s dimensions are 34x19x11 inches and weigh 44.25pounds. Do not be fooled by its lightweight; it has a carrying capacity of 650lb.

The Sea Eagle kayak has evolved from 1968, with every new make having better features and performance. Its lightweight is an added advantage since it makes portability easier. You can move it to your most preferred water body without any hassle.It is suitable for up to class III White water. It is a great kayak for beginners and persons of all ages.

You are assured of comfort since it features two ergonomic seats with back support. It also comes with two paddles, a foot pump, and a carry bag. There are also two kegs at the bottom for better tracking and speed. The pedal inflatable ocean fishing kayak also contains an open and close drain valve and five one-way inflation and deflation valve that makes it easy to inflate and deflate it.

3. Intex Excursion Pro Inflatable Fishing Kayak

This inflatable kayak for ocean fishing features two removable skews for deep and shallow waters, two floor-mounted footrests, two integrated recessed fishing rod holders, and two adjustable bucket seats. Its dimensions are151x37x18inches weighs 43.64 pounds, and a carrying capacity of 400pounds.

It is made of a tough laminate PVC material with polyester. It is also very light, so you can easily transport it to your preferred water body and for storage. You don’t have to worry about the type of water you chose to go kayaking and fishing since it is highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, and sunlight. Your comfort is also ensured since the seats and footrests are adjustable so, you can always adjust them to your liking.

It also contains high-pressure spring-loaded valves for easy inflation and deflation. High-pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability. You can also add extra accessories like GPS, fish finders, and swivel fishing rod holders since they contain a removable and adjustable fishing bracket. There is; also a carry bag to carry all your accessories easily and a repair patch. This kayak is an upgrade of the Intex challenger. However, there are various upgrades of this kayak the Explorer K2, Challenger k1, and Dakota K2.

Read More: Best Two Person Fishing Kayak of 2021

4. Intex Explorer K2 2-Person Inflatable Kayak

This inflatable 2 person kayak is an upgrade of the Excursion Pro Kayak. Its dimensions are10’x3’x1’. It weighs 30.6 lb and a weight capacity of 400lb. The upgrades of this kayak include Explorer K2, Excursion pro, and Dakota K2. It features three separate air chambers, two 86 inches paddles, a pump, and a carry bag.

It features an adjustable inflated seat with a backrest. So, you are assured of comfort anytime you are in the water. The seat also inflates quickly, so you can inflate it before you get in the water. It also has a removable skeg that enhances directional stability. However, it is made for smaller water bodies like rivers and lakes.

The high-quality polypropylene material enhances the strength of the inflatable kayak, and it has a heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl. It is yellow, and so it enhances vision in case of an accident or emergency. The inflatable I-beam floor makes it rigid and stable. There are also Boston valves that ensure quick inflation and deflation.

5. Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Kayak

This inflatable 2 person ocean kayak can be used for tandem or solo paddling. The package includes

• A voyage kayak hull
• Two removable EVA padded seats with high back support
• Two adjustable aluminum  paddles with ergonomic grips
• A deluxe double action hand pump
• Removable tracking skeg
• Travel carry bag

The inflated dimensions are 10ftx35”x16” and the deflated dimensions are 24.5″x21″x10″. It is super light and only weighs 23lbs, so it can be easily carried by one or two people and has a weight limit of 400lbs.

It also features a comfortable and padded high backrest seat so, you will not tire easily even when fishing or sailing for long hours. There are also carry handles and integrated bungees for extra storage. The deluxe double-action hand pump is easy to use and inflates the kayak in less than five minutes.

Read More: Better For Fly Fishing: Canoe vs. Kayak

The heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin bottom is abrasion and impact resistant. So you are assured of the durability of your product, and you can be sure that you will not have punctures. There are also double-threaded Boston valves for easy inflation and deflation and ensure there are no leakages.

It is also an excellent performer in water. The pointed nose entry delivers excellent performance in calm and choppy waters. The removable skeg provides responsive tracking, and the 840 coated nylon oxford fabric top cover is rip and tear-resistant.

6. ADVANCED Elements Advanced Frame Inflatable Kayak

This inflatable is a hybrid. Its folded size is 30″x17″x10″, and the inflated size is 125.98×32.28×9.84 inches. It weighs36lbs and has its weight capacity is 300lbs. It has a sturdy construction since it is made with multiple layers of materials that enhance its durability. It features a combination of an aluminum frame, rigid panels, and inflation chambers that give the kayak advanced performance.

The hull material is a polyester fabric sandwiched by layers of vinyl making it sturdy and creates a durable and strong outer cover. It contains two air chambers that enhance your safety in the water. There are also built-in aluminum ribs that define the bow and stern, so improving your tracking.

The inflatable kayak is usually preassembled at the factory, so you only need to unfold, inflate and attach the seat. The seat is adjustable and padded; hence it offers hours of comfortable paddling. It looks and paddles like a hard shell kayak but has the portability of an inflatable kayak. These features make it the most durable inflatable kayak.

7. Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak

This inflatable 3 [person ocean kayak is made of heavy-duty PVC material and a rugged tarpaulin bottom that is puncture resistant and highly durable. This makes it ideal for calm and choppy waters. It also contains multiple air chambers that allow you to get back to the show even after an accident or leakage.

It also contains an airtight system that guarantees that there is no leakage. It is also very comfortable since the seats are adjustable, and you can move them to fit your specifications. There are also carry handles so you can easily move it in and out of water.

This kayak also has a spray cover block to keep you dry and protect you from splashes. The inflated dimensions are 12ftx3inx3ft. The weight is 34.76 pounds and has a carrying capacity of 490lbs.

8. Sea Eagle 330 Pro 2 Person Inflatable Kayak

This kayak is made of quality PVC material and has a large I-beam tube that enhances the floor’s durability, and natural chines improve its speed and tracking. Its dimensions are 34x19x10 inches, and it weighs 47 pounds so that you can carry it on your own or with a partner.

It has two rear skegs so that it can be used as an inflatable surfing kayak. The rear skegs allow you to move faster with less paddling effort. The skegs are made of indestructible molded plastic, so they cannot be harmed by hitting rocks. It also inflates fast, so you can inflate it when you get to a water body, and within five minutes, you will have inflated it.

The 2 person inflatable kayak for ocean waters has a carrying capacity of 500 pounds and is suitable for Class III whitewater. It comes with four paddles with an asymmetrical blade and aluminum shaft. It also has an open and close drain valve and five one-way inflation/deflation valves.

9. Airhead Montana Two Person Inflatable Kayak

This two-person inflatable kayak is an advancement of previous 10-foot kayaks and is more spacious. It has a semi-rigid heavy gauge PVC construction and a tubular I-beam floor that improves your comfort, tracking, and buoyancy.

It is designed for lakes and moderate whitewater. It features three air chambers that are enclosed by rugged 840 denier nylon with UV and water-resistant coating. There are also Neoprene elbow guards that enhance your comfort when paddling. The seats are adjustable and removable, and they provide great back support.

The inflatable kayak dimensions are 0.04×0.04×0.01 inches, weighs 36.3 pounds, and has a carrying capacity of 500 pounds. It is also lightweight, compact, and easily portable. Another important feature is the 6D-rings at the bow and stern that help secure your gears. Its bright orange color enhances your safety since it improves its visibility in the water.

10. BOTE Deus Aero Inflatable Kayak

This inflatable kayak is built for fun. So it is an ideal inflatable ocean kayak for surfing. It has a sturdy make and is built for stability with four chambers. It also has a military-grade PVC construction that makes it light so you can easily get it in and out of water.

It has a draining cockpit, so it drains out unwanted water and D-rings that are perfect for lashing down an anchor or a rope. It also contains a BVA multi-textured that is heat-sealed to shed water and provide extra cushioning. There is also a keel guard that helps one paddle with ease. This kayak can be converted into a stand-up paddle by removing the top.

Safety Tips for Safe Ocean Kayaking

Whether you are an experienced, intermediate, or just a beginner, the ocean is a risky place to go kayaking. Although it is a lot of fun and you will be able to access deeper waters, you need to enhance your safety. Here are a few safety tips for ocean kayaking.

1.   Always carry a means for calling for help and keep it within reach–

When kayaking out in the open, you need to have a way to contact people and call for help in case of any emergency. You can carry a mobile phone and have your kayak. Also, make sure they are easily accessible and protect them from getting destroyed. You can always get a waterproof case. You can also have a tracker on your kayak so people can easily trace your location in case you go missing for long.

2.   Wearing buoyancy aid and the right clothing–

Always get PFDs and get comfortable clothing before sailing out. When ocean kayaking, you can flip over, and you need to have comfortable clothes so you can easily swim with them and always wear a PFD since it will keep you afloat EVEN WHEN YOU ARE UNCONCIOUS.

Read More: What Should You Do If A PFD Has A Tear In The Outer Fabric?

3.   Check weather and tides–

Checking the weather and tides will also help you ensure your safety. Always understand the effects the weather and tides will have on you. If it is stormy and rainy, it would be best if you do not go kayaking. Also, check the tides and their directions to prevent any fatalities.

4.   Inform someone you are going and when you will be back–

It is always safe to inform someone you will be going kayaking and where you will be going. Also, make sure you state what time you will be back. This way, in case of any accidents or delays, people can easily find you and look for you. You can easily get lost in the ocean, so if no one is aware of your whereabouts and you do not have any communication tools, you might have a rough day or worse.

5.   Get training–

Before you go kayaking in the ocean, always ensure you have had enough training, and you can comfortably sail on your own. You can also get an instructor if you do not have the expertise to help you maneuver.

Frequently Asked Questions By Buyers

Q1. Can you use an inflatable kayak in the ocean?

Answer: Due to the previous inflatable kayaks, most people think they are not a good fit for the ocean. However, with the recent manufacturers, they are incredibly durable, and you can choose the sturdiest material to get a highly durable and stable kayak. They can withstand tough conditions in the ocean and move on flat waters, rivers, lakes, and even the ocean. You only need to ensure that you maintain your stability in water and you are experienced. With the right inflatable kayak, you can go out sailing or fishing without fear of sinking.

Q2. How to launch an inflatable kayak in the ocean

Answer: Launching an inflatable kayak in the ocean is not as difficult as it seems. Especially if you are used to moving waters, you will have an easy time. First, you need to pick a launching spot sensibly. Move to where the waves are less powerful and launch. To launch, you first need to ensure you are stable enough to maintain a strong forward motion. Then make sure you are in a position in which the waves start to come towards you and paddle so that you get over the hump before the wave breaks. Also, ensure you do not lose control by getting caught up in the break. If you take the waves head-on, you will be assured that you can easily predict the timing of a wave and improve on your timing.

Q3. Are inflatable kayaks worth the money?

Answer: Inflatable kayaks are getting more and more popular since they are affordable, lightweight, and easy to transport. So, they are definitely worth the money. The question about how safe AND STABLE are they? It still lingers on people’s minds. Previously, inflatable kayaks were not safe for oceans and lakes. But with the improved technology, you will easily find an inflatable kayak that can stand the test of time and one that is highly durable, and you can use it when fishing, sporting, or just for fun. However, to settle on a good inflatable kayak, you need to check its features and make sure you have a high-quality kayak from a well-known brand. Also, make sure you get something that has been tested by other people to determine its stability and whether it is worth the money.

Q4. Is it dangerous to kayak in the ocean?

Answer: Kayaking is fun and interesting, but you are faced with multiple risks. Especially when it comes to the ocean, it can get quite dangerous, especially if you do not know how to use a kayak in the ocean. It can also get extremely dangerous if you do not know how to deal with waves, wind, and large chops. If you do not realize when the ocean conditions are too much for you and your kayak to handle, it is also dangerous even with some level of experience. To ensure your safety in the ocean, you need to ensure you have your PFDs all the time and learn how to control your kayak even in the tides and currents.

Read More: Do You Need To Know How To Swim To Kayak?

Q5. What is the best type of kayak for the ocean?

Answer: When kayaking in the ocean, you need to ensure you have a stable kayak.  For an ocean, you need to check the length, width, and hull shape. Length and width affect maneuverability and speed. Long kayaks are fast, while wider kayaks are stable. The hull shape is also a determinant of a kayak’s performance.  The hull shape determines the primary and secondary stability of a kayak. When it comes to an ocean kayak, always ensure you get a more stable kayak unless you need one for competitions. Also, ensure the hull shape combines both the primary and secondary stability.

Final Thoughts

Despite the discouragement and people’s fears, it is clear that inflatable kayaks are also perfect for oceans. You only need to ensure that you get a stable kayak and have your protective gear. With the right weather conditions and excellent training, you can go fishing in the ocean and participate in different kayak activities in the ocean, provided you have the right inflatable kayak. We recommend the Driftsun Voyager 2person tandem inflatable kayak for its stability and comfort. The Advanced Element advancedframe inflatable kayak is also perfect due to its durability, space and sturdy construction.