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Tour kayaking is a type of kayaking that involves paddling longer distances, being as efficient as possible and carrying greater equipment with you than other types of the sport might require. Tour kayaks can be used in a variety of environments, but they particularly excel in calmer waters such as lakes, the ocean and rivers. In this article, we will have a look at some of the best touring kayaks and some alternative options.
Recreational kayaks are typically made of cheaper materials than tour kayaks, such as polyethylene. They are simpler, and have fewer features, but are subsequently a cheaper option, therefore more accessible to new paddlers. Their less complicated design and nature make them ideal to learn the basics and are adequate for bodies of water such as lakes and calm rivers.
If you are not too concerned about performance during your early paddling adventures, then a recreational kayak is an ideal place to start. They are generally heavier than higher spec touring boats and are wider meaning greater stability, but more drag through the water. A recreational kayak is traditionally shorter in length than a touring boat, which makes it more agile and easy to turn, but reduces its tracking stability, which enables the paddles to carve a straight line through rough waters and prevailing winds.
In comparison, most touring kayaks typically utilize a V-shaped hull and are constructed of more advanced, lightweight materials. This increases performance but also cost. The V-shaped hull streamlines the boat, reducing drag, and increasing speed and is accompanied by a shorter width and greater length. This all adds up to improve speed and tracking ability, but reduces lateral stability. In addition, the best touring kayaks boast many features such as storage hatches, deck rigging, adjustable sliding foot braces, carbon fiber hulls and more.
You will need to know how much weight your touring kayak can actually take before it sinks! If you have a larger frame and plan on using all of the available gear storage space, then a higher capacity is a good idea.
The length of a kayak is important for performance characteristics such as the ability to track in a straight line. You will also need to consider how the length of the vessel will affect your ability to transport it.
The height of the kayak is linked to stability and whether or not a 'spray deck' will be required.
The greater the width, the greater the stability. The boat will not be able to roll as easily and will therefore aid lateral stability. This is ideal for beginners and those that may want to do kayak fishing, but the extra width will slow you down and reduce efficiency and tracking performance.
Weight is important when it comes to transporting the kayak around in lifting it in and out of the water. Once in the water, weight is not so much of a concern. A heavier kayak will require more effort to reach cruising speed, but its momentum will help efficiency over long distances.
The kayak materials used for each construction can have a significant impact on its performance and price. Some popular options include:
| Dimensions | Weight | Capacity | Check Price |
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16’6” x 13.5” x 22” |
50 lbs |
340 lbs |
The Fathom touring kayak is a wonderful example of what Eddyline produces. This new touring kayak is perfect for extended trips. Its efficient design and features allow maximum comfort and control. The Fathom touring kayak has many sea kayak features making this a truly versatile model. Its V-shaped hull makes it easy to accelerate, as well as its 'rocker' makes turns effortless.
Constructed of a composite 'ABS' material which resists abrasions, and damage from small impacts and even protects against sun damage. The hull seams are fusion welded ensuring high strength and durability and hand sanded edges for top-quality workmanship.
Equipped with a fully adjustable seat (Infinity Seat system) with a padded seat and backrest allows you to get that seating position just right. This will prevent any backache, especially on those long weekend trips.
This sit inside the kayak allows you to perfect your seating position and the thigh braces not only improve performance but also stability. The adjustable skeg system allows you to choose when to deploy it to maximize the tracking ability, particularly useful in windy conditions
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| Dimensions | Weight | Capacity | Check Price |
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12’9” x 15” x 26” |
51 lbs |
300 lbs |
The wilderness systems Tsunami 125 is a new and improved model. It looks great and incorporates useful new features such as removable mesh deck storage bags and internal storage compartments, all ideal features for kayak touring and multi-day trips. Although this touring boat is efficient through the water and is stable, it doesn't lose any performance when it comes to agility, which is great for all levels of paddlers and dynamic environments.
A single mold construction for simplicity and strength.
The 'Phase 3 AirPro Tour Seat' is possiblythe most comfortable kayak seat on the market! It is fully adjustable meaning you can fine-tune your seating position and avoid the dreaded bad back from long trips.
The V-shaped hull flared sidewalls and high volume increase this kayak's stability, with no decrease in straight-line speed or efficiency.
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| Dimensions | Weight | Capacity | Check Price |
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14’ x 15” x 24.75” |
59 lbs |
375 lbs |
The Old Town Castine is a day-touring kayak, with stability and comfort at the forefront of the designer's mind. A sleek-looking touring boat that is available in a variety of sizes, so smaller and larger paddlers are catered for.
Constructed from 'Single Layer Polyethylene', for greater strength and durability. Although this is not the lightest material, it is much cheaper than fiberglass and composite models.
The Castine 140 is a highly buoyant and stable kayak. With features such as external deck rigging and T-handles, re-entry from the water is a simple task.
Internal thigh braces allow the paddler to be firmly seated and connected to the hull of the kayak, meaning balance and therefore stability is improved. In support of this, a rudder kit is available which can be purchased directly from 'Castine'.
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| Dimensions | Weight | Capacity | Check Price |
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19’2” x 13.4” x 18.9” |
35.7 lbs |
285 lbs |
This kayak is an ultimate blend of traits from the best of the racing kayaks, sea kayaks and composite kayaks. Not only is it a formidable race kayak, but it is also a stable touring kayak for those longer trips.
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| Dimensions | Weight | Capacity | Check Price |
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15.75’ x 26.77” |
68.3 lbs |
485 lbs |
The Fusion 480 is part of the 'Stealth Range' from 'Stealth Performance Products. This affordable new model is an upgrade when it comes to stability when compared to its predecessor, but at no cost to performance or the speed at which it cuts through the water.
This touring kayak utilizes the 'rotomolded' technology, which reduces weight, yet enhances rigidity.
A highly buoyant boat due to large internal storage compartments and a rudder system increases stability through choppy waters.
The natural design of this touring kayak provides stability yet maintains its natural agility, for all levels of paddlers to enjoy.
Some of the best features include:
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| Dimensions | Weight | Capacity | Check Price |
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11.65’ x 31.89” |
26.46 lbs |
331 lbs |
This is one of our favorite British-style kayaks! This inflatable touring kayak is a real competitor to the hard hull designs. Its pointed bow allows the hull to cut through the water and pierce waves, making it a high-performing and efficient boat.
To support this, an easily attachable fin can be installed to boost its tracking performance. This inflatable kayak can easily be transformed into a 'sit inside' kayak with an optional cockpit cover. This is perfect for intermediate and advanced paddlers looking to explore rough waters.
Constructed with Drop- Stitch technology using 'Nitrilon' material. This material is lightweight and strong, allowing the material to withstand high pressures which are required with inflatable boats. Once inflated, this material is rigid, providing good performance through the water. Not only is this material strong, but further benefits include abrasion resistance and UV resistance.
Multiple inflatable chambers allow for redundancy in case one or more chambers are punctured. In addition to this, multiple external deck rigging features such as safety ropes both on the bow and the stern allow easy re-access from the water.
Inflatable kayaks are generally very stable and buoyant. In support of this, adjustable footrests, a comfortable seat backrest and a tracking fin boost the stability of this inflatable kayak enormously.
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| Dimensions | Weight | Capacity | Check Price |
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11.6’ x 6” x 35.5” |
19 lbs |
425 lbs |
This Stand Up Paddle Board from 'Switch' is a good example of an alternative solution to a touring kayak. This two-in-one combo allows you to get the most out of both paddle boarding and kayaking. The paddle board is a lightweight 11'6 long inflatable package that can be easily inflated and folded down.
A well-constructed SUP board with a large traction pad on the deck will ensure you feel like you've got great value for money.
A tough abrasion-resistant body and SUP board deck reduce the risk of tears and puncture considerably, so you can adventure with confidence. Note: this package from 'Switch' does not include safety gear such as a buoyancy aid, so make sure you select this additional option when purchasing from 'Switch'.
A stable platform with a width of 35.5". The kayak conversion backrest is assisted by the footrests, allowing the paddler to get maximum efficiency from every paddle stroke.
Items which are included in the package include a Kayak conversion seat and footrest, a four-piece adjustable paddle, hand pump, travel bag, center fin and a blue coil leash. Everything you need to get started!
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| Dimensions | Weight | Capacity | Check Price |
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12’6” x 6” x 31” |
24 lbs |
300 lbs |
This 12'6 Meno series SUP board from GILI Sports is a great competitor to the 11'6 Switch SUP board we previously looked at. Another board is available with a kayak conversion kit. As can be seen from the board specifications, the Meno board is longer and narrower than the Switchboard. At a glance, this would enable it to be somewhat more efficient through the water, but perhaps slightly less stable when it comes to lateral stability. So this could be an ideal option for those with previous SUP experience.
The 12’6 Meno SUP Board has a sleek profile which allows it to cut through the water effortlessly. A carbon fiber rail which runs the length of the board naturally increases rigidity, so you can get the most out of what you put into each paddle stroke. GILI Sports SUP board stand apart from the rest when it comes to quality. If you are looking for impressive detail and durability, look no further! The material of the SUP board is made up of Fusion Dual Layer Technology, making this one of the strongest and lightest SUP boards on the market!
All GILI Sports SUP Boards include leash and abrasion-resistant materials which will significantly reduce the chance of tears and punctures, giving you the confidence to explore further than before. A large diamond rear traction pad connects you to the board and prevents you from slipping around on the deck as water splashes over the sides.
The GILI sports package is generous and full of top-quality accessories. The bag is large, padded for comfortable transportation and looks awesome! It includes a dual-action pump, meaning it is inflated in a much shorter space of time with less effort. A set of three fins which easily clip into in-built attachment points. A coiled high-quality leash is tucked away neatly. The composite single-bladed paddle is easily extended and retracted simply by depressing a quick-release pin, allowing the desired length to be chosen and secured in seconds.
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Both share many of the same qualities, such as high stability, a skeg system, optional foot pedal steering, ample storage space and so on. A true sea kayak will usually have a higher ' rocker' than a touring boat, which allows it to cut through oncoming waves with ease. In addition to this, sea kayaks tend to be narrower and have more of a pronounced V-shaped hull.
This is completely down to your own personal preference. However, there is no reason why you can't buy the boat of your dreams straight away. Often, the boat that you thought was right for you and looks perfect, just isn't the same when you finally drop it into the water and go for your maiden voyage. It's always a great idea to test-paddle a few different kayaks and explore all of their features before investing. Joining a local kayak club is a perfect way to improve your skills and try out lots of different boats.
Approach this one with caution! When comparing touring kayaks and whitewater kayaks, there are more differences than similarities. Whitewater kayaks are typically very buoyant, unstable, have a rounded hull and don't have anywhere near as much storage space. They are designed to be easily handled, agile and resilient against persistent knocks and scrapes and naturally deflect away from rocks due to their rounded nose and hull. Although great for fast-flowing water, over short distances, these kayaks will drain your energy over longer distances and require constant steering correction due to poor tracking.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding has taken the water sports industry by storm, and for good reason! It has created a new sport altogether. You can get some of the best aspects from kayaking such as the freedom, ability to cover long distances and general satisfaction from paddling through glassy waters. Paddleboarding gives you the option to stand up and change your stance, explore the waters with a different point of view and explore without the sometimes claustrophobic feel of a compact sit-inside kayak. With the GILI sports kayak conversion kit, the transformation is quick and effortless. Naturally, there are some downsides such as a slight reduction in speed and tracking performance when compared to a thoroughbred expedition kayak. Our advice... take the leap of faith and try it for yourself!
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