Sea Touring Kayaks

Best Sea Touring Kayaks 2023: Explore The Open Waters

5/5 - (1 vote)

When it comes to sea kayaking, it is always important to get the right equipment. With so many brands and models out there, it can be tough to make an informed decision on the perfect Sea touring kayaks for your needs.

Sea kayaking is a great adventure sport that will provide you with a lot of fun and challenge. However, it can be a dangerous sport if you don’t have the right equipment.

  • Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125

    Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125
    • Storage
    • Comfort
    • Stability
  • Perception Carolina 12

    Perception Carolina 12
    • Stability
    • Ample Storage
    • Comfortable Seating
  • Perception Expression 11.5

    Perception Expression 11.5
    • Comfort
    • Maneuverability
    • Durability

We made sure to select the best sea touring kayaks based on their stability, maneuverability, durability, and other key factors. We also considered the user reviews of each product to help you make an informed purchase.

Sea Touring Kayaks List 2023 Models

  • Riot Kayaks Edge 14.5 Sky
  • Dagger Stratos Playful & Sporty Performance Whitewater Kayak
  • Perception Expression 11.5 | Sit Inside KayakBest for Beginner
  • Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 | Sit Inside Touring Kayak
  • Perception Carolina 12 | Sit Inside Touring Kayak
  • Perception Kayak Conduit
  • AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak – Best for Inflatable
  • Riot Kayaks Edge 13 Touring Kayak
  • Pakayak Bluefin 14 Ft Kayak, The Only Hardshell Packable Kayak 
  • BKC TK122K 12′ 8″ Tandem 2 or 3 Person SIt On Top Fishing Kayak 
  • ADVANCED ELEMENTS AirFusion Evo Inflatable Kayak
  • AQUAGLIDE Navarro Convertible Inflatable Kayak
  • Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series – Best Cheap Kayak
  • AQUAGLIDE Chelan Inflatable Kayak
  • Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak

Riot Kayaks Edge 14.5 Sky 

Riot Kayaks Edge 14.5 Sky
  • Length: 14’6’’ (4.41m)
  • Width: 22” (57cm)
  • Weight: 58.2 lbs (26.4 kg)
  • Maximum displacement: 324 lbs (147 kg)

We’ve seen a few kayak models with storage hatches and bulkheads, but this Riot Kayaks Edge 14.5 Sky is our favorite.

The main reason why we like this one is that it has a very wide opening that makes it easy to get in and out, plus the fact that the bow and stern are both covered with a storage hatch and bulkhead. We know that we’re not the only ones who love the wide opening – there’s no doubt that this feature is going to help you and your friends get in and out of the kayak easily.

The storage hatch and bulkhead are made of rubber and come in a white color, which is nice and easy to see at night. On the deck, you’ll find self-rescue safety straps that are made of plastic and attached to the sides of the kayak.

You won’t have to worry about these slipping off because they’re pretty sturdy. The deck lines are reflective and make it easier to spot the kayak from the side. This model comes with a flex 4-seat design, which means that you and your friends can sit comfortably.

There’s also a large cockpit area that gives you plenty of room to move around. Overall, this Riot Kayaks Edge 14.5 Sky is a great choice and is a fantastic option for any kayaker.

Pros

  • Ample Storage Space
  • Self-Rescue Safety Straps
  • High Visibility Reflective Deck Lines
  • Comfortable Flex 4 Seat

Cons

  • Plastic Material
  • Style Limitations

Dagger Stratos Playful & Sporty Performance Whitewater Kayak, Red, 14.5 Large

Dagger Stratos Playful & Sporty
  • Item Weight: 57 pounds
  • Material: Polyethylene (PE)
  • Boat Length: 14′ 6″
  • Boat Weight: 57 lbs
  • Maximum Capacity: 300 lbs

Dagger has made some of the best kayaks in the market, and the Stratus is no exception.

This kayak has enough room for a comfortable ride on the water, and it has a sleek design that looks great in the water. It’s a great choice for beginners and experts alike, and it comes with the best features like adjustable leg lifters and an ergonomic seat.

The cockpit is roomy enough for multiple paddlers, and it has a comfortable seat that’s adjustable. The bow and stern hatches are perfect for quick access when needed, and they have bulkheads that help prevent the water from flooding the cockpit.

You can easily adjust the leg lifters for a custom fit, and the paddle straps have a quick-release feature that helps make them easy to remove. The truck skeg system will give you better tracking, and it also helps with the stability of the kayak.

There’s enough space for a full-size paddle in the cockpit, and the seat is fully adjustable for different paddlers. It comes with a carrying bag and carry handle, so you can easily carry it wherever you go.

The Stratus is great for multi-day adventures, and it’s a great choice for the beginner or expert.

Pros

  • Versatile Design
  • Roomy Cockpit for Larger Paddlers
  • Stability and Forgiveness
  • Sporty Hull for Maneuverability
  • Adjustable and Ergonomic Seating System
  • Ample Storage
  • Adjustable Skeg System

Cons

  • Limited Color Options
  • Weight (57) Pounds

Perception Expression 11.5

Perception Expression 11.5
  • Material: Polyethylene (PE)
  • Boat Length: 11′ 6″ / 353 cm
  • Weight: 44 lbs.

We bought our first kayak when I was 12 years old. I was really excited about learning how to paddle and wanted to get into the water as soon as possible. I ended up choosing a Perception Expression 11.5 because it had great reviews and seemed like it would be the perfect size for me.

The first day we got it, my brother and I went to the local pond and tried it out. The seats were a bit stiff and uncomfortable, but after a few days of practice, we were able to get comfortable.

We started paddling around and exploring the lake. It felt really good and was easy to maneuver around in the water. It also kept us dry, which was really important to me since it was a pretty rainy season.

Now, I’m 15 and I still use it almost every day. It’s a great boat and I recommend it to anyone who wants to learn how to paddle and get into the water.

Pros

  • Perfect for Beginners
  • Adjustable Premium Seat
  • Seatback Adjustability
  • Spacious Dry Storage
  • Easy-Entry Cockpit
  • Retractable Skeg

Cons

  • Limited Color Options
  • Weight
  • Touring Focus

Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 

Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125
  • Material: Polyethylene (PE)
  • Boat Length: 12′ 9″ (12 feet and 9 inches)
  • Boat Weight: 51 lbs (51 pounds)
  • Maximum Capacity: 300 lbs (300 pounds)

The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 is the perfect touring kayak. It’s stable, easy to paddle, and great for paddling around lakes and rivers.

The company is also known for its excellent customer service, which is something you’ll really appreciate once you buy this boat. They’re always willing to help you, and they even provide a 90-day money-back guarantee on their kayaks.

If you want a kayak that can take on the whitewater but is still looking for a fun, relaxing day trip, then the Tsunami 125 is the kayak for you.

Pros

  • Adjustable Footrests and Thigh Braces
  • Convenient Gear Storage
  • Ample Storage Hatches
  • Under Deck Water Bottle Holder

Cons

  • Weight
  • Limited Color Options

Perception Carolina 12 | Sea Touring Kayaks ‘

Perception Carolina 12
  • Product Dimensions – 144″D X 26″W X 14.5″H
  • Weight Limit – 275 lbs
  • MaterialPolyethylene (PE)

This is an excellent kayak for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. It’s very stable and very comfortable. I love it! I bought the Perception Carolina 12 because I wanted a kayak that could handle rough water and still be comfortable. This kayak has been the best for both purposes.

It’s a little heavier than some of the other kayaks, but it has a lot more room. It feels like a smaller boat, but it has plenty of space. It doesn’t feel like a mini-SUP at all. I have taken it out on small, medium, and large-sized lakes, as well as ocean waves.

The seats are comfortable and fit my body well. The cockpit is spacious enough that I don’t need to store anything extra. The storage is great! There is a place for everything, and the dry bag is perfect. Overall, I love this kayak. It’s very stable, comfortable, and fun to paddle.

You can definitely get more bang for your buck with another brand, but this is a great option for the price.

Pros

  • Enhanced Comfort and Fit
  • Easy Entry Cockpit
  • Adjustable Footrests
  • Ample Storage Space
  • Added Buoyancy and Safety

Cons

  • Limited Color Options
  • Weight

Perception Kayak Conduit

Perception Kayak Conduit
  • Product Dimensions – 156″D X 26.5″W X 12″H
  • Item Weight: 54.5 pounds
  • Maximum Capacity: 295 pounds (134 kg)

Perception Kayaks are the leading manufacturer of kayaks in the world and they are definitely worth checking out. They have a wide range of kayaks and they’re really good at what they do. Their kayaks are made to order, so you can customize them to your exact requirements.

Their kayaks are built to last and the materials used are strong and durable. If you’re looking for a kayak that won’t let you down, this is the brand to get. They offer a 2-year warranty on the frames and a lifetime warranty on all other parts.

They also offer a 3-month trial period, which gives you plenty of time to try it out before you decide to purchase. The Conduit 13.0 is a stable and well-designed kayak that is sure to last you a long time.

You can add optional accessories such as foot braces, knee pads, and keepers for even more versatility. If you’re looking for a great kayak that is easy to maneuver, comfortable to paddle, and has good stability, then this is the kayak for you.

Pros

  • Paddler-Friendly and Unrestrictive
  • Stability for Beginners
  • Speed and Tracking
  • Zone Seat Outfitting
  • Knee/Thigh Pads
  • Keepers Foot Brace System

Cons

  • Weight
  • Limited Color Options

ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak

ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite
  • Dimensions: Length: 13 feet, Width: 32 inches, Weight: 42 pounds (19 kg)
  • Capacity: Maximum Weight Capacity: 450 pounds (204 kg)
  • Material: Polyester

The Advanced Elements Expedition Elite is an ideal first kayak for a beginner. It is simple and easy to learn how to paddle. It has enough space for you to bring along all your fishing gear. This kayak is made from high-quality materials. It is durable. Its design is comfortable and stable.

I really like the fact that it is easy to put together. It is very easy to get in and out of it. It is also easy to carry around. I like the fact that it has a wide opening at the top. You can easily put in a fishing pole and then pull it out when you are ready to go fishing.

You can take a few things with you. The only thing that I would suggest is to leave your fishing rod at home when you are using this kayak. If you are fishing off the shore, you might want to consider bringing a rod holder to use.

The only negative thing that I have to say about this kayak is that it is not made to be used in cold weather. It is recommended that you should only use it in warmer weather. I have paddled this kayak in the summer and in the fall. I have found that it works great in warm weather.

I do not recommend paddling this kayak in the winter. It is not made for cold weather.

Overall, I think this is a great kayak. It is worth the money that you pay for it. It is a good choice for a beginner.

Pros

  • Superior Tracking and Maneuverability
  • Durable and Strong Hull
  • Enhanced Tracking and Rigidity
  • Optimum Safety
  • Quick and Easy Setup
  • Comfortable Paddling

Cons

  • Pump Not Included
  • Limited Color Options

Riot Kayaks Edge 13 LV Flatwater Day Touring Kayak (Yellow/Orange, 13-Feet)

Riot Kayaks Edge 13
  • Item Weight: 44 pounds
  • Material: Polyethylene (PE)
  • Dimensions: Measures 13 feet in length, 25 inches in width, and 12 inches in height
  • Weight: Weighs 58 pounds

This is a great entry-level kayak for those who want to get into the sport but are hesitant to spend a lot of money on it.

It’s a stable kayak that’s suitable for beginners. If you’re not sure about kayaking or if you’re not comfortable spending a lot of time in the water, then this is the best kayak for you.

It’s lightweight and easy to transport, which makes it ideal for camping trips. It’s made with PE, which is a durable material and can handle harsh conditions. The kayak has a low deck profile and a low center of gravity, which helps in maneuvering and stability.

The kayak also features a retractable skeg that you can use to protect yourself from rocks, logs, and other hazards when paddling. It also has custom-fit seating, which means that you won’t need to worry about finding a seat that fits your body perfectly. This is a great kayak for beginners and can be used for fishing, camping, and cruising.

Pros

  • Stability
  • Agility
  • Retractable Skeg
  • Low Deck Profile
  • Custom-Fit Seating System

Cons

  • Weight

Pakayak Bluefin 14 Ft Kayak, The Only Hardshell Packable Kayak 

Untitled design 10
  • Product Dimensions – 170″D x 24″W x 16″H
  • Weight Limit – 1200 Pounds
  • Material – ‎Polyethylene (PE)

The Bluefin is a very popular kayak among all levels of kayakers. I actually prefer this kayak over a traditional hardshell kayak because it packs down easily into the included carrying bag. I’ve used this kayak in the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean, and it has held up well in both locations.

The Bluefin has a rigid hull design, which allows for excellent maneuverability and stability. I really like the shape of the Bluefin too – it has a sleek profile that is comfortable to sit in for hours on end. The seats are also comfortable, but I do wish they had a bit more padding.

The only drawback is that the Bluefin doesn’t have the same level of durability as a traditional hardshell kayak. If you drop the kayak, it will likely break apart and pieces will scatter all over the place. However, the Bluefin is easy to repair, and the parts are inexpensive. Overall, the Bluefin is a great value and a recommended kayak for those looking to get into a sit-on-top kayak.

Pros

  • Leak-Proof Design
  • Portability with Good Performance
  • Sustainability
  • Ample Storage

Cons

  • Weight
  • Limited Seating Capacity

BKC TK122K 12′ 8″ Tandem 2 or 3 Person SIt On Top Fishing Kayak

BKC TK122K 
  • Product Dimensions – 80″D X 12.8″W X 34″H
  • Weight77 Pounds
  • MaterialPolyethylene (PE)

This kayak is the ultimate one for families. It’s made from high-quality polyethylene, so it’s tough and durable. It can support up to 770 pounds, which makes it suitable for adults and kids of various sizes. It’s fully loaded with all the accessories you’ll need, including 2 paddles, 2-rod holders, 2 seats, 2 hatches, and 1 bungee.

It’s also stable and comfortable for a wide range of paddlers, and it can be used for fishing or touring. Its Roto Molded single-piece construction is built to last, and it won’t split or puncture like inflatable kayaks.

Pros

  • Capacity: Spacious tandem kayak for up to 3 people.
  • Accessories: Comes fully equipped with essential items.
  • Durability: Roto Molded high-density polyethylene construction.
  • Stability: Wide 34-inch beam for excellent stability.

Cons

  • Portability: Requires assistance or additional equipment for transport.
  • Personal preference: Style may not suit everyone.

ADVANCED ELEMENTS AirFusion Evo Inflatable Kayak

ADVANCED ELEMENTS AirFusion Evo
  • Dimensions: Length: 13′, Width: 24″, Weight: 32 lbs (14.5 kg)
  • Weight Capacity: Maximum weight capacity of 235 lbs (106 kg)
  • Item Weight: 32 pounds
  • Material: PU Tarpaulin/Drop-stitch

We bought this kayak after having tried other inflatables, but we were really disappointed with them. They all felt flimsy and the ones that were made of vinyl had a very cheap look. But this one, it just looked so good. The color was really bright and vibrant, and it had a nice soft touch.

And it was a lot lighter than we expected. We could actually carry it ourselves with no problem. And when we got it inflated, it was really stable and solid. It felt like a real kayak, not some toy.

We didn’t get any chance to use it, because we were only able to test it in a lake. But we saw that the paddling experience was pretty close to that of a hard-shell kayak. It felt really smooth, and it was stable enough to do tricks. We even tried to stand up and paddle, but the kayak would fall down immediately. So we decided to just sit down.

And the best part about this kayak is that we could fold it up into a small package. There are so many places to put stuff in it, and it’s really easy to store. It’s like carrying a duffel bag around, and it’s even more convenient than carrying a regular kayak.

Overall, it’s a great inflatable kayak, and we highly recommend it.

Pros

  • Hybrid Design
  • Durable Construction
  • Portability
  • Included Accessories

Cons

  • Weight Capacity
  • Pump Not Included

AQUAGLIDE Navarro Convertible Inflatable Kayak with Drop Stitch Floor, Green

AQUAGLIDE Navarro
  • Item Weight: 40.24 pounds
  • Material: Nylon
  • Dimensions: Length: 13’3″ (404 cm), Width: 37″ (94 cm)
  • Weight: 35 lbs (15.9 kg)
  • Capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg) for 1 person

The Aquaglide Navarro is an excellent inflatable kayak that’s made with high-quality materials. It’s very durable and is easy to carry around.

This kayak has an ultra-light weight of only 35 lbs. and a compact size of 13’3”x37”. It’s designed to be stable and easy to maneuver, even when paddling at high speeds.

The Navarro is made from a reinforced nylon material, which makes it very durable. The floor is designed to be easy to wipe clean and will not tear easily. This is very important because you may end up in the water while paddling around, and the floor needs to be easy to clean.

The paddling area is large and spacious, so you can fit 2 people inside the kayak comfortably. The drop stitch stitching on the floor makes it super tough, so the kayak will be able to take the abuse of rough water. This is an excellent inflatable kayak that’s made with high-quality materials. If you want a kayak that will stand the test of time, you should get this one.

Pros

  • Durable Construction
  • Portability
  • Suitable for Touring
  • Included Accessories

Cons

  • Optional Cover Not Included
  • Limited Warranty

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series

Intex Excursion Pro
  • Product Dimensions – 151″D X 37″W X 18″H
  • Weight Limit – 400 Pounds
  • Material Polypropylene (PP)

This kayak is extremely sturdy and very comfortable. I would recommend this kayak to anyone who is interested in getting into whitewater kayaking. The kayak is very stable and has a smooth ride. I love the color red because it is very flashy and stands out. It has lots of storage and is very easy to get around in. The only thing I would change is the seat. The seat is too high. But overall, it is a great kayak!

Pros

  • Durable laminate construction
  • high-pressure inflation
  • versatile skeg options
  • convenient features.

Cons

  • Relatively heavy weight
  • potential valve issues

AQUAGLIDE Chelan Inflatable Kayak

AQUAGLIDE Chelan
  • Item Weight: 33 pounds
  • Material: Duratex
  • Capacity: 1 or 2 persons
  • Maximum Weight Capacity: 400 lbs (181 kg)
  • Dimensions: 13’6″ (413 cm) L x 35″ (89 cm) W x 12″ (30.5 cm) H x 10.5″ tube diameter

This is a great inflatable kayak that’s super easy to inflate, deflate, and transport. The paddling experience is great and it’s a lot of fun too! It’s very easy to use, and the adjustable seat is just right for a variety of users.

The Chelan is the perfect size for one person, but if you have a larger group, you can add an additional seat. The Chelan is suitable for all levels of paddlers, but beginners will enjoy its smooth ride and easy handling. This is a great product that you can use for fishing, camping, and touring too.

Pros

  • Versatile Design
  • Spacious Layout
  • Durable Material
  • Repair Kit Included

Cons

  • Limited Color Options
  • Touring-oriented

 Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak

Explorer K2 Kayak
  • Product Dimensions – 123″D X 36″W X 20″H
  • Weight Limit – 400 Lbs
  • MaterialPolypropylene (PP)

When you think of kayaks, you probably think of big, powerful boats. But Intex makes small, comfortable kayaks, and their Explorer K2 is no exception. The kayak has an inflatable seat and backrest, so it’s easily portable. It’s also made with sturdy, puncture-resistant polypropylene, and comes with a paddle and two oars.

There are two positions for the backrest. It’s adjustable, so you can sit comfortably whether you’re paddling or relaxing. The cockpit is designed for comfort and stability. There are handles for carrying it and a removable skeg for directional stability.

The kayak is made for smaller bodies of water, including lakes and mild rivers. It’s made to handle rough conditions, so it can withstand strong winds, waves, and other conditions. While the kayak isn’t designed for open ocean use, it can handle a few inches of water. It’s not suitable for swimming though. If you’re looking for a lightweight, comfortable kayak that’s great for lakes and smaller bodies of water, then this is the kayak for you.

Pros

  • Seat with backrest for comfort
  • Spacious cockpit design
  • maneuverability and stability
  • Removable skeg for enhanced
  • Bright yellow color for increased visibility

Cons

  • Designed for smaller bodies
  • Material may not offer the same durability

FAQ’s

What kayak is best for the sea?

The best kayak for the sea is a sea kayak.

What is the difference between a sea kayak and a touring kayak?

The difference between a sea kayak and a touring kayak is its design features for specific water conditions.

Are kayaks good for the sea?

Kayaks can be good for the sea with proper skills and precautions.

What are the 4 types of kayaks?

The four types of kayaks are recreational, touring, sea, and whitewater.

Conclusion

Kayaking is an excellent sport for health, fun, and enjoyment. If you’ve been thinking about giving Sea Touring Kayaks a try, the following tips can help you get started and make sure that you have all the gear you need before you hit the water.

Here are some basic things to consider before getting out on the water. You’ll want to take a look at what you’ll need to keep yourself comfortable, safe, and healthy when you’re on the water.

When you are ready, have fun! Make sure you bring your Sea Touring Kayaks with you on your next vacation. Take your kids or grandkids along for the ride!

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