Best Of
Kayaking
Updated: February, 2025
Top 10 Best Ocean Kayaks 2025
Are you looking for the best Ocean Keyaks? With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is the best for you. We've done the research and have narrowed down the top rated Ocean Keyaks available today. In this article, we will compare the features, pros and cons of each of these top rated models, so you can make an informed decision and purchase the perfect Ocean Keyak for your needs.
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#1 Platinum Award
Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak
Love the Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak?
- Holds 2 people up to 400 pounds
- Designed for speed and agility in the water
- Tough vinyl construction for adventuring
- Easy to handle in and out of the water
- Includes inflatable seats with backrests, 2 dry bags, and a carry bag
. . .
The Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak is a great choice for recreational paddling, fishing, and hunting, and assembles and disassembles easily. It is stable and portable, but can be affected by wind and currents, and is prone to punctures. It is recommended to carry Flex Tape for temporary repairs, and to invest in a longer paddle.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
- Lightweight and portable
- Stable and difficult to flip over
- Fast inflation and deflation times
- Maneuverable
- Five-chamber design system prevents sinking
- Excellent value for money
- Resistant to punctures
Cons
- High profile can be redirected by wind
- Currents can cause drag and spin unexpectedly
- Included paddle is often too short
- Punctures are common near rocks and sticks
- Getting in and out of the boat will likely leave you with wet feet
- Racing against rigid hull boats is impossible
Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak Rating
8.8
Portability
Stability
Speed
Durability
Maneuverability
Paddle Length
#2 Gold Award
Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak
Love the Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak?
- Made in USA
- Optimized and elevated seating console
- Frame seat folds and is removable
- Large bow and stern tank wells provide ample storage for crates and fishing gear
- 2 double-barrel rod holders can accommodate up to 4 fishing rods
- 3 solo mount recesses enable you to easily add mounts & accessory holders (sold separately) without drilling
- Molded-in trays and cup holders keep important items and refreshments within easy reach
- Length: 11' 6"
- Width: 35"
- Weight: 77 lbs
- Max Capacity: 425 lbs
- Two Integrated, dual fishing rod holders for hands-free storage
- Self draining scupper holes in the footwell to keep you dry (scupper plugs not included)
- Water Types: Lakes & Ponds, Slow-Moving Rivers & Calm Coastal
. . .
The Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak is an excellent choice for anglers looking for an all-day fishing experience. It offers great stability while standing up, has plenty of storage space, and is even compatible with a trolling motor. It can be difficult to transport due to its size and weight, but overall it is a great product that lives up to expectations.
Pros
- Stability when standing up and fishing
- Maneuverability
- Plenty of room on the deck
- Enough storage space to fit camping gear
- Paddles well despite its size and weight
- Trolling motor compatible
- YakAttack RotoGrip Paddle Holder
- Accommodates larger individuals comfortably
- Tracks well through slightly fast water
- Handles like a barge when turning
Cons
- Difficult to transport due to its size and weight
- Paddle holder located near the front of the boat can get in the way
- Minor scuffs from shipping
- Requires planning ahead of time
- Barge-like turning
- Heavy and bulky
- Elbow grease required to remove scuffs
- Need help to load it
- Takes time to get set up with a trolling motor
- Can be expensive
Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak Rating
9
Stability
Maneuverability
Storage
Transport
Paddle Holder
Cosmetics
#3 Silver Award
Perception Rambler Tandem Kayak
Love the Perception Rambler Tandem Kayak?
- Two-person design with stability
- Configurable for solo paddler
- 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 not included
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Can be used on lakes, ocean bays, light surf or slow moving rivers
- Large rear open storage for cooler and other gear
- Mold-in center seat for the kids or dog
- High performance kayak paddle
- Thick aluminum and rugged plastic construction
- Two-piece breakdown design for storage and transport
- Asymmetrical spoon-blades for increased stroke efficiency
. . .
The Perception Rambler Tandem Kayak is an excellent choice for recreational use, with features such as a third middle seat, comfortable ergonomics, and sturdy construction. It is lightweight enough to be transported by one person, but may require additional assistance due to its weight. It is easy to maneuver and tracks well through choppy waters, and is perfect for families looking for a budget-friendly outdoor activity.
Pros
- Durable and stable
- Comfortable ergonomics
- Third middle seat for extra seating capacity
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Good performance in choppy waters
- Easy to maneuver
- Affordable price point
- Great for families
- Can accommodate larger riders
- Perfect for recreational use
Cons
- Limited storage space
- Additional assistance required when loading/unloading
- Longer paddles recommended for solo use
- Heavyweight
- Modification may be required for additional storage solutions
- Not suitable for long-distance trips
- Not suitable for whitewater or rough waters
- Can be difficult to turn
- Can be difficult to paddle in windy conditions
- Can be difficult to paddle in shallow waters
Perception Rambler Tandem Kayak Rating
9
Durability
Stability
Ergonomics
Weight
Storage
Tracking
#4 Bronze Award
BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak
Love the BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak?
- Extra space to fit 3 people
- Fully loaded accessories
- Roto Molded single Piece High density polyethylene material
- Built-in fishing rod holders
- Water resistant storage
. . .
The BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak is a great choice for those looking to get out on the water with friends and family. It is constructed from durable materials and has a hull design optimized for stability in both calm and choppy waters. It comes with multiple storage compartments, a wheeled cart system for easy transportation, adjustable foot braces, and a trimaran style hull shape for excellent maneuverability. All in all, it is a reliable and budget-friendly tandem fishing kayak that is worth considering.
Pros
- Constructed from durable materials
- Hull design optimized for stability
- Multiple storage compartments
- Weighs under 90 pounds when fully loaded
- Comes with wheeled cart for easy transportation
- Lightweight construction and built-in handles for easy launching and retrieving
- Excellent maneuverability
- Adjustable foot braces for optimal seating
- Reliable and won't break the budget
- Plenty of space onboard
Cons
- Not suitable for solo use
- Not as fast as some other models
- Not as much storage space as some other models
- Can be difficult to transport on smaller vehicles
- Not ideal for larger bodies of water
- May require additional accessories for optimal performance
- May require some assembly
- Can be difficult to maneuver in strong winds
- May require additional maintenance
BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak Rating
8.2
Durability
Stability
Storage
Transport
Maneuverability
Comfort
#5 Runners Up
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Love the Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak?
- Solid drop stitch floor for a solid bait-casting position
- Especially designed for fishing with front bungee storage and multiple universal hard mounting points
- Rough build to last rough waters with 1000D Reinforced Layered PVC
- Stress-free setup and storage with dual-action hand pump and travel bag
- 1 Year Guarantee on materials, workmanship, and assembly + 30 Day No Hassle Returns
. . .
The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak is a great choice for avid anglers, offering a reliable and durable experience with its sturdy construction and inflatable design. It is stable enough to allow one to stand up in it, and is easy to transport despite weighing 40 lbs. However, the paddle provided by Elkton Outdoors is too short for comfortable use and the dual action pump can be difficult to attach. We recommend investing in this product, but make sure you have all the necessary accessories before hitting the open waters.
Pros
- Durable and reliable
- Sturdy construction
- Inflatable design
- Stable enough to stand up in
- Easy to transport
- Can handle choppy waters
- Can maneuver through tight spaces
- Can handle strong winds
- Weighs only 40 lbs.
- Dual action pump included in package
Cons
- Paddle provided is too short
- Slight waddling effect when paddling
- Dual action pump can be difficult to attach
- Dual action pump cracked after only four uses
- Additional accessories may be needed
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak Rating
8.8
Durability
Stability
Portability
Speed
Paddle
Pump
#6 Runners Up
Perception Tribe Sit on Top Kayak
Love the Perception Tribe Sit on Top Kayak?
- Made in the USA
- Adjustable framed seatback with cushy padded seat pan
- Molded knee/Thigh areas for added comfort/fit
- Integrated footrests to accommodate paddlers of different sizes
- Front and rear tank well storage with bungee tied owns
- Center storage hatch for keys and other small items
- Built-in drink holder
- Bow and stern toggle handles for easy carry
. . .
The Perception Tribe Sit on Top Kayak is a great recreational kayak that is lightweight, has a sit-on-top design for optimal visibility, and is designed for both novice and experienced kayakers. It offers adjustable seating and footrests for maximum comfort, and is suitable for both flatwater and open ocean conditions.
Pros
- Lightweight design for easy loading and unloading
- Sit-on-top design for optimal visibility while paddling
- Ample storage space for gear
- Sleek profile and vibrant colors
- Ultra-stable design for novice kayakers
- Tracks straight with minimal effort for experienced kayakers
- Adjustable seat for ergonomic support
- Adjustable footrests for custom positioning
- High quality recreational kayak at an affordable price
- Ideal for both flatwater and open ocean conditions
Cons
- Not suitable for extreme whitewater
- No rudder or skeg for directional control
- Limited color options
- No built-in cup holders
- No protective deck padding
- No anchor or tie-down points
- No built-in rod holders
- No built-in hatches
- No adjustable backrest
- Seat may become uncomfortable after extended use
Perception Tribe Sit on Top Kayak Rating
9
Portability
Stability
Visibility
Comfort
Tracking
Storage
#7 Runners Up
Reel Yaks Pedal Kayak Fishing Angler
Love the Reel Yaks Pedal Kayak Fishing Angler?
- Effortless pedal drive
- Ultimate fishing platform
- All day comfort
- Easy to carry
- Simple to store
. . .
The Reel Yaks Pedal Kayak Fishing Angler is an ideal choice for anglers looking to get into kayak fishing. It's lightweight and easy to transport, and comes with a smooth pedal drive and seven rod holders. It also offers plenty of storage options, and is stable enough to handle choppy waters. Plus, Reel Yaks offers great customer service, with free replacement parts and improved chair straps.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Flat bottom allows it to glide through shallow waters
- Smooth pedal drive provides plenty of power
- 7 rod holders located around the boat
- Additional equipment rails for extra gear
- Compatible with Watersnake 24 thrust and 55 lb thrust motors
- Plenty of storage options with bungee straps and hull
- Stable in choppy waters
- Excellent customer service
- Great value
Cons
- Seat does not adjust up or down
- Trolling motor mount system sold separately
- Chair straps included are not the best quality
- No cup holders
- No paddle included
- No anchor included
- No fish finder included
- No battery box/battery included
- No dry storage compartments
- No scupper plugs included
Reel Yaks Pedal Kayak Fishing Angler Rating
8.2
Ease of setup
Stability
Storage
Speed
Comfort
Customer service
- Measures 10.6¡¯(L) x 21¡±(W) with 20.4-pound weight and 325-pound maximum capacity
- Comes with a waterproof cell phone bag to better protect your phone
- Made of ultra-light PVC eco-friendly material, wear-resistant and easy to clean
- High quality hull is resistant to salt water, oil, ozone and low temperature
- Compact package for easy storage and transportation
- Bright yellow color helps improve visibility
- 10 independent air chambers with valves to improve safety index
- Comfortable removable and adjustable seat with backrest
. . .
The HotMax Inflatable Kayak is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get out on the water. It is lightweight and easy to transport and store, and comes with adjustable footrests and backrests as well as bungee cords for storage. It is surprisingly stable and affordable, but may be difficult to maneuver and lacks a stabilizer fin. Assembly is straightforward, but you will need your own pump. Overall, it is a great value for those just starting out in kayaking or looking for something convenient for camping trips.
Pros
- Quickly inflates and deflates
- Lightweight construction
- Adjustable footrests and backrests
- Bungee cords for storing items
- Surprisingly stable
- Relatively low price tag
- Perfect for camping trips
- Easy to transport and store
- Effortless paddling when loaded
- Great value considering affordability
Cons
- Tendency to lean if not centered correctly
- Lack of a stabilizer fin underneath
- Instructions could be improved upon
- Need to purchase own pump
- Difficult to maneuver
- Not suitable for windy or current conditions
- Included pump is too small
- Not suitable for long distances
- Not suitable for white water
- No storage compartments
HotMax Inflatable Kayak Rating
7
Price
Features
Stability
Assembly
Maneuverability
Pump
#9 Runners Up
Wilderness Systems Tsunami Kayak
Love the Wilderness Systems Tsunami Kayak?
- Ideal for larger paddlers
- Exceptionally fast and stable in all conditions
- Most comfortable kayak seat
- Slidelock XL foot rests and adjustable padded thigh braces
- Two mesh gear pockets on deck
- Two storage hatches and bulkheads
- Under deck water bottle holder
. . .
The Wilderness Systems Tsunami Kayak is an excellent choice for both experienced and novice kayakers alike, offering superior comfort, adjustable features, and excellent performance in a variety of water conditions. It is well-suited for day trips and multi-day expeditions, and comes equipped with two large storage hatches for packing gear. It is a great value due to its versatility and build quality.
Pros
- Comfortable seat and adjustable thigh braces
- Generous cockpit space
- Adjustable foot pegs
- Good primary and secondary stability
- Balanced speed and maneuverability
- Two large storage hatches
- Sealed against potential leaks
- Versatile for a variety of activities
- Superior build quality
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Not as fast as some longer touring boats
- Not suitable for extreme whitewater
- Not as maneuverable as some shorter models
- Not as light as some other models
- No rudder or skeg included
- Not designed for overnight camping
- No built-in fishing rod holders
- No built-in storage compartments
- No drink holder included
Wilderness Systems Tsunami Kayak Rating
8.6
Comfort
Performance
Maneuverability
Durability
Storage
Value
#10 Runners Up
Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL Fishing Kayak
Love the Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL Fishing Kayak?
- Easy-to-use forward/reverse pedal drive for comfortable, hands-free fishing and navigation
- Customizable accessory tracks, cushioned floor pads for both better comfort and grip, a custom tackle box, and plenty of rod holders
- Tank wells in the bow and stern offer big open areas for cooler, tackle crate, dry bags, or a dog
- Superior seat design with great lumbar support and premium mesh seat to help stay cool and comfortable all day long
- 12-foot kayak with a 450-pound maximum capacity and usable capacity for people and gear of 346-pounds
. . .
The Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL Fishing Kayak is an excellent choice for anglers of all levels, offering a lightweight yet durable design, easy-to-use pedal drive system, comfortable seating, adjustable footrests, and low profile design for stability in windy conditions. It provides great speed, maneuverability, and comfort, making it suitable for long trips and more agile than a canoe/kayak hybrid.
Pros
- Lightweight yet durable design
- Excellent stability
- Easy-to-use pedal drive system
- Comfortable seat
- Adjustable footrests
- Low profile design
- Responsive pedal drive system
- Ergonomic seating
- Reliable build quality
- Agile than a canoe/kayak hybrid
Cons
- Pricey
- Weight limit
- Pedal drive system can be tricky to use for beginners
- Not suitable for whitewater kayaking
- Needs to be stored in a dry place
- Not suitable for larger bodies of water
- Not suitable for extreme weather conditions
- Needs regular maintenance
- Requires some assembly
- Not suitable for long-distance trips
Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL Fishing Kayak Rating
10
