If you’re looking for a kayak without the headache of transportation and storage, then inflatable kayaks are your answer. Inflatable kayaks are a great way for you to get a feel of kayaking without having to install a roof rack or sacrifice storage space. Then again, inflatable kayaks come for a wide variety of water-based activities and can either be solo, tandem, or three-person ones. In this article, we focus on the best 2-person inflatable kayaks, both fishing and non-fishing kinds. They not only allow you to fish and navigate narrow waters but even open bodies of water. And they allow you to explore so with your favorite kayaking companion, whether it’s your pooch, your pal, or your partner.
Inflatable kayaks are an excellent option for beginners as well since they’re simple to learn, easy to use and transport, and lightweight at the same time. What’s more, they’re less expensive than the hard-sided ones, so you can enjoy kayaking without making an initial investment that’ll burn a hole in your pocket. To that end, here are the 13 best 2-person inflatable kayaks out there, both fishing and non-fishing kind.
How To Choose The Best 2 Person Inflatable Kayaks?
Kayaking jargons
There are a few terms with respect to kayaking that you need to know before you delve into choosing kayaks, fishing, or otherwise. To begin with, there’s the hull, which is the kayak’s bottom portion and can be pontoon-shaped, flat, V-shaped. or rounded. Moreover, the hull affects kayak’s maneuverability and stability. Secondly, we have the rocker, which is the boat’s bottom’s curvature. The lesser the curvature, the more resistance or friction the kayak has against the water, and vice versa. The better the rocker profile, the better the kayak’s maneuverability. Next come the skegs, which is basically the little fin attached to the kayak’s bottom that helps you steer straight. Skegs essentially help you stay on a straight path in windy conditions.
Footpegs are, as the name suggests, little footrests that you can push against to brace your legs while kayaking. If footrests are adjustable, then you can position yourselves better in the kayak. Spray skirts are next, which either covers parts of the kayak or wraps around your torso. They help you stay dry on choppy waters and minimize water splashes. Finally, drain valves are plugs used to drain water out of the cockpit. Of them, self-bailing drain valves are better as they prevent puddles from accumulating beneath your feet. Moreover, they have one-way drainage systems that let extra water out of the kayak sans letting anything back in.
Types of inflatable kayaks
- Recreational kayaks – They’re usually designed for day use, such kayaks include ones for snorkeling, diving, and even fishing.
- Whitewater kayaks – These kayaks are designed for powerful whitewater, and are usually rated as Class IV or Class V.
- Expedition kayaks – The workhorses of the inflatable kayak world, expedition kayaks are designed for longer trips. While they’re completely capable of tackling powerful whitewater, they’re equally at home in flatwater too.
- Lake paddling kayaks – These are designed for paddling across large bodies of flat water.
Material and durability
The term ‘inflatable kayaks’ doesn’t exactly inspire confidence; in fact, it makes them sound like blow-up pool toys. However, don’t underestimate them, for they’re crafted from thick puncture-resistant material that goes several layers deep sometimes. Usually, PVC, Pennel Orca, or Nitrylon, or a blend of them all are used to design inflatable kayaks. Of them all, PVC is the most popular and most common, but all three materials are tough and hard-wearing. Moreover, inflatable kayaks come with many air compartments to reduce your chances of a shipwreck.
Weight capacity and portability
When it comes to 2-person inflatable fishing kayaks, it’s important to check recommended weight limits since kayaks have varying weight capacities. You might expect such a kayak to hold two full-grown, heavy adults. But, many can handle just one large and one small adult, or two small adults, or even an adult and their dog at most. So, consider how much you both weigh and the capacity of the kayak prior to making your selection.
Fishing kayak extras
While regular kayaks can be turned into fishing kayaks, it depends entirely on your personal needs. Then again, they’re dedicated and specific fishing kayaks as well. Some of the features you need to look for in fishing kayaks are comfortable swiveling seats, accessory pouches, and tie-down straps for additional fishing accessories. You might also want to go for kayaks that allow you to stand and those that have lure and rod holders. There are even kayaks that come with fish rulers and have a rowing frame that allows using oars instead of paddles.
Sea Eagle 330 Sport
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There’s no doubt that the Sea Eagle 330 Sport is one of the most popular inflatable kayaks ever. With its affordability, convenience, durability, and general all-around versatility, it’s hard not to like this kayak. What’s more, it’s perfect for beginners to learn on, and is just as much fun for more experienced kayakers. Besides its straight-out-of-the-box use, the kayak inflates and deflates within a matter of minutes, and is supremely packable too. So, you don’t have to break your back or your head about securing it to the car roof or struggling with unloading. The rugged, rough-and-tough hull is sun-resistant and perfect for both saltwater and freshwater.
Moreover, the 330 is almost unsinkable thanks to the three separate chambers’ construction. Plus, it’s inflatable I-beam construction floor provides a firm and stable paddling platform, thus contributing to the kayak’s loading capacity of 500 lbs. The best part? This tandem kayak even doubles as a solo one by simply adjusting the seats.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 6 minutes
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight.
- Affordable.
- Versatile.
- Comes with a carry bag, foot pump, and repair kit.
Cons:
- Some users mentioned that it’s takes a ton of effort to keep it stable in windy weather.
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Bestway Hydro-Force Bolt X2 2-Person Inflatable Kayak (CU)
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One of the Best Inflatable Kayaks For Less Than $500 is also one of the best tandem kayaks – the Bestway Hydro-Force Bolt X2 2-Person Kayak. The Hydro-Force Bolt X2 is one of the more premium lineups from Bestway, complete with a maximum carrying capacity of 400 lbs. It’s easy to inflate and deflate thanks to the drain valve and can get you out of the water in a matter of minutes. Plus, once it’s deflated, the kayak folds down to a carrying size that makes it easy to store as well as transport.
However, its best feature is the robust vinyl build that’s resistant to UV light, oil, and even saltwater. You’ll also find two lightweight aluminum reinforced paddles perfect for exploring whitewater. The removable keel fin at the hull’s center is perfect for aiding directional stability. In addition to that, the hull’s streamlined and hydrodynamic design allows the kayak to cut smoothly across the water. Rounding up the features are the D-rings on both sides near the front and rear, which are perfect for strapping on your gear.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 7 minutes
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros:
- Lots of room for people and storage.
- Comfortable seats.
- Removable keel fin.
- Affordable.
Cons:
- Not as durable as other kayaks on this list.
Intex Dakota K2 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
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One of the most expensive 2-person fishing kayaks on this list is the Intex Dakota K2, which costs as much as $450, but it’s absolutely worth it. For one, the durable and robust kayak is crafted from heavy-duty, puncture-resistant vinyl. What’s more, the I-beam in the floor panel provides rigidity, allowing you to even stand up for fishing purposes. If that wasn’t enough, the three separate air chamber build makes the craft virtually unsinkable! Even then, we aren’t done with the kayak’s pluses. For instance, it has tons of space for two people, complete with adjustable seats. Secondly, it boasts lots of storage too, and that too both at the front and rear. With a weight capacity of 400 lbs, it’s no wonder the Dakota K2 is such a popular kayak.
You’ll also find two dry bags and two skegs, which are perfect for both stability in calm waters and turning quickly in whitewater. Furthermore, the grab handles at the rear and front make carrying and storing it easy, while the grab ropes are perfect for climbing out of the water.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 10 minutes
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros:
- Strong build.
- Massive carrying and storage capacity.
- Portable and lightweight.
- Carry bag and two dry bags included.
Cons:
- Expensive.
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Sea Eagle 370 Pro Inflatable Sport Kayak
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The Sea Eagle 370 Pro Inflatable Sport Kayak is one of the best overall inflatable kayaks you’ll find. It is actually advertised as a kayak for three people, but it’s best used as a tandem kayak and is one of the Best Kayaks For Beginners. In fact, with the third seat removed, you have tons of space to keep your feet as well as your gear. The tough and durable inflatable kayak is resistant to both UV and saltwater, so you can take it out in sounds, fjords, rivers, lakes, and even the ocean. Useful spray shields on both sides help stay you dry and keep your gear dry too. Plus, the presence of paddles and a foot pump allows you to hit the water very quickly.
Since its hull is designed from 30-mm thick K80 PVC that’s anti-tear, you can even take this craft out in Class 3 whitewater rapids. The two skegs at the bottom ensure both speed and better tracking. Five deluxe one-way inflation/deflation valves make it easy to blow up and defalte the craft. Finally, the kayak even comes with two four-part paddles with aluminum shafts and asymmetrical blades for better paddling.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 15 minutes
- Weight capacity: 650 lbs
Pros:
- Quick to inflate and deflate.
- Lightweight and very portable.
- Lots of storage space.
- Can be converted from 3-person to 2-person kayak.
Cons:
- Not as speedy as other rigid kayaks.
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Sea Eagle 435 Catamaran Inflatable Kayak with Pro Package (CU)
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One of the most stable 2-person inflatable fishing kayaks is the Sea Eagle 435 Catamaran with Pro Package. Thanks to a rugged, rough design, the Sea Eagle 435 is a beautiful combination of stability, speed, and fun. Since it’s easy to inflate and deflate, the kayak is ready to be rowed within a matter of minutes. Moreover, it’s easy to pipe down and pack too, making it very portable. The craft is constructed from 1000 Denier reinforced material, making it superbly durable while heightening the bounce off rocks and other runnable objects. All-in-all, it boasts a stable, solid construction that cuts through both flatwater and whitewater with minimal resistance and friction.
One of the best parts about this kayak is that it comes with what is called a “Pro Package”. So, you’ll also find two very comfortable and ergonomic back seats, two paddles, a repair kit, a foot pump, two paddles, and even a carry bag.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 7 minutes
- Weight capacity: 650 lbs
Pros:
- Versatile.
- Easy entry and exit.
- Compact.
- Great maneuverability.
- Comfortable yet rugged and stable.
Cons:
- No back-end storage. Although, it has lots of front-end storage.
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak
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One of the most popular 2-person inflatable fishing kayaks that costs just around $100 is the Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak. This easy-to-use yet elegant inflatable kayak is ideal for flatwater and simply needs to be pushed off from the shore to be used. The kayak features a sporty, fun-looking, and graphic design that’s not only visible on the water but also easy to paddle. The bright green color can be spotted from just about anywhere and is visible when you deflate and store it up too. What’s more, the coating is UV-resistant, so you can rest assured that it won’t fade when exposed to the sunlight.
Thanks to the Intex high-output pump and the Boston valve that come along with it, the craft can be inflated and deflated within a matter of minutes. So, it’s also easy to repair or patch up when it gets punctured. That, and the two 86-inch aluminum paddles and the carry bag make this craft a great value-for-money buy.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 7-8 minutes
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros
- Durable and lightweight
- Includes paddles
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Removable seats with comfortable backrests
- Spacious cockpit with a cargo net for storage
- Tracks well with kegs on the underside
- Affordable
Cons
- Sometimes the water gets inside the body of the kayak
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Elkton Outdoors Cormorant 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak
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With a 450 lbs. capacity and a less than 10 minutes inflation time, the Elkton Outdoors Cormorant Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak is a cincher. One of the most portable 2-person inflatable fishing kayaks on this list, the kayak is designed from 18-gauge rip-resistant 1000D PVC that makes it virtually unsinkable. Besides being adjustable, the seats also come with a lot of back support that makes sitting for longer times comfortable. If you feel that the seating is a bit low, you can even add cushions for increasing your height.
There’s a lot more to the kayak than just the above-mentioned aspects. For one, it also comes along with four trolling rod holders as well as two vertical ones. You’ll also find double-sdied oars and a double-action pump that makes fishing and paddling easy, as well as inflation and deflation. Plus, the three removable air chambers allow for quick adjustment as well as repair.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 8-9 minutes
- Weight capacity: 450 lbs
Pros:
- The flat-water tracking fin is removable.
- Durable and lightweight.
- Comes with a whole lot of fishing extras.
Cons:
- Some users mentioned that paddling straight is slightly tricky.
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Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
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The rugged-looking Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak is one superb tandem fishing as well as casual paddling kayak. This two-seater, utterly durable kayak is made from 8 gauge PVC with a 1000D tarpaulin build of a surface. So, the kayak’s bottom can withstand all sorts of scrapes and damages, especially when running into rocks or sharp objects. What’s more, it allows you to stand upright while fishing as well. In addition to all this, the craft has multiple air chambers and an airtight system, making it both anti-leaking and unsinkable.
Since it was specially designed for fishing, the kayak has all the necessary fishing attachments and accessories that you could possibly want. To begin with, it has mesh storage pockets where you can stock snacks and other food items for long hours of fishing. Secondly, you’ll find Berkley rod holders that allow for fishing hands-free in a non-hassle way even while kayaking. Furthermore, the Sevylor trolling motor fittings allow for attaching a motor and navigating the water easily and better for exploring more fishing opportunities.
Specifications
- Inflation time: Less than 10 minutes
- Weight capacity: 470 lbs
Pros
- Convenient pockets for storage.
- Anti-sinking and anti-leaking.
- Durable and lightweight.
- Has all fishing extras.
Cons
- Tracking can be better.
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Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak
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If an inflatable family kayak is what you’re looking for, then look no further than the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak. It’s not only one of the Best Family Inflatable Kayaks, but also one of the best 2-person inflatable fishing kayaks too. The tandem kayak has a whopping capacity of 550 lbs! What’s more, it packs down to an amazing 52 lbs into a super-snug carry bag, making it one of the most versatile crafts ever. The kayak also comes all pre-assembled, leaving you to just unfold, inflate, and attach the padded adjustable seats. The three-layered build is anti-leaking and anti-ripping and comes with two very comfortable padded seats. Plus, the in-built aluminum ribs on the bow and the stern improve tracking.
There’s a lot more to like about this kayak, such as the integrated pressure relief valve, molded low-profile rubber handles, a skeg tracking fin for stability, and six chambers. Above all, the D-ring tie-downs and deck lacing are ideal for both storing the gear as well as transporting the kayak.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 6-7 minutes
- Weight capacity: 550 lbs
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable.
- Seats are padded, comfortable, and adjustable.
Cons:
- Deflation takes time.
- Time-consuming to clean and dry out.
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Intex Excursion Pro Recreational Kayak
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Are you surprised to see yet another Intex product on this list? Because we aren’t. The Intex Excursion Pro Recreational Kayak is one of the best 2-person inflatable fishing kayaks and works beautifully for both advanced kayakers and beginners. The kayak has a polyester core and is constructed using a laminate PVC, both of which are highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and sunlight damage. Not only is it stable or durable, but it’s easy to inflate and deflate as well. It also features two removable skews that make moving in both deep and shallow water easy, and two adjustable bucket seats that make sitting for long hours comfortable.
Since it’s a fishing kayak, you’ll find two floor-mounted footrests and two integrated recessed fishing rod holders that make fishing for long hours enjoyable. What’s more, there’s storage space on both the bow and stern sides, and there are stainless steel D rings for tying your gear also.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 10-15 minutes
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros:
- Removeable and adjustable bucket seats.
- Integrated rod holders and D-rings.
- Easy and simple to use.
- Durable and stable.
Cons:
- Heavy.
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Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Inflatable Tandem Kayak
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Can a full-size tandem kayak inflate in less than five minutes? The Driftsun Voyager 2-Person Inflatable Tandem Kayak surely can, all thanks to the double-action hand pump that’s included with the kayak kit. When it’s deflated, the kayak which has a capacity of a whopping 400 lbs fits into a beautifully portable carry bag. Plus, since it weighs just 27 lbs, the lightweight kayak is very easy to handle by two people. Settle yourself and your kayaking partner in the two comfy padded EVA seats before using the premium aluminum paddles with ergonomic grip handles. The rear tracking fin makes it easy to keep the kayak in a straight line in flatwater.
However, it’s the kayak’s robust 840D nylon oxford top cover and heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin bottom that lends stability to the craft and also make render it resistant to punctures and tears. Moreover, the rocker profile and pointed nose entry keep the kayak stable even in choppy waters. Plus, the padded seats are rather comfortable and perfect for hours of comfortable cruising and fishing.
Specifications
- Inflation time: Less than 5 minutes
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros:
- Padded, ergonomic seats.
- Portable and lightweight.
- Durable and tear-resistant.
- Comes with a whole lot of included accessories.
Cons:
- None, really.
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Sevylor Tahiti Inflatable Angler Kayak (CU)
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What makes the inflatable, sit-on-top Sevylor Tahiti Angler Kayak so great is that it folds up into a small yet convenient dedicated backpack, complete with shoulder straps. So, if you have to hike from your car to the body of water, you can literally carry your kayak on your back! When inflated, the kayak has enough room for you to stretch out your legs. The frontal cargo net can store everything from gear to food. Moreover, the lift handle allows you to carry it in and out of the water easily. What you’ll really like is the flat, rigid bottom, and three-chamber design that lends it a shape sturdy enough for you to stand too.
Thanks to the mini double-lock fast valves, the kayak inflates within a matter of minutes. The 21-gauge PVC build keeps it free from scratches, abrasions, rips, and tears in rough environments. In case you hit a snag, the multiple air chambers safely get you to the shore. Finally, the multi-position footrest and backrest work well to make you comfortable for hours together.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 5 minutes
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros:
- Easy to step and pack up.
- Adjustable, comfortable seats.
- Rugged, rough, and durable.
Cons:
- Not exactly suited for rough whitewater.
Advanced Elements Straitedge 2 Angler Kayak (CU)
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If you’re a pair of kayaking anglers, then the Advanced Elements Straitedge 2 Angler Kayak is the one for you. Armed with a patented rib frame, the kayak is made from multi-layered heavy-duty, abrasion-resistant material. It’s one of the best 2-person inflatable fishing kayaks and is designed keeping anglers’ needs and requirements in mind. To begin with, the kayak’s wide beam and multiple air chambers allow for greater stability when you make those big catches. What’s more, it has in-built aluminum ribs on the stern and bow that result in better tracking. If that wasn’t enough, the removable accessory frame allows you to customize the kayak with fishing-related equipment such as fish finders or rod holders.
The kayak has a ton of practical features too, such as the high back seats that also have inflatable lumbar support for ease and comfort. You’ll also find paddle holders, bungee deck lacing for additional storage, and even stainless steel D-rings. Finally, after you’re done for the day, you can roll the kayak up and store it in the trunk easily too.
Specifications
- Inflation time: 10 minutes
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
Pros:
- Reasonably priced.
- Extremely stable and durable.
- Portable and packable.
- Lots of practical and versatile features.
Cons:
- Very heavy.
