What To Look For
Tandem kayaks offer advantages and challenges not found with single kayaks. They come in two styles: rigid and inflatable. The rigid models are durable, relatively lightweight and made of fiberglass or plastic. Inflatable models are made of canvas or nylon or other materials.
Many ocean-worthy as well as other models have waterproof cargo hatches, bow and stern handles for lifting and flexible cargo netting for securing items to the top side of the kayak.
Because they carry two paddlers, they are considerably longer and heavier but also somewhat more stable than those used by one person. Designed more for long-distance and/or open-ocean travel, tandem sea kayaks usually have more storage space and a foot-pedal-operated rudder, which improves maneuverability despite their greater length. Tandem kayaks, like singles, have rider openings that can be sealed and backrests.
Recreational tandem kayaks, upon which paddlers sit in an open cockpit, don't have the cargo capacity or water-tight construction, but they are naturally buoyant and usually have foot-bracing chocks and are fairly maneuverable.
Common Pitfalls
Many of the concerns about tandem kayaks involve their operation and adaptability. While more stable with two paddles steadying them and wide-ranging, they also bear the implicit assumption that two people can work together efficiently, not always the case in any conditions, adverse or optimal. Loaded with cargo, they are heavy, low-riding and tend to wallow in turbulent open-water settings. Rudder-controlled versions rely upon a rear paddler who is adept at paddling while controlling the kayak's direction via foot controls, not an easy task in difficult seas.
While recreational models are made of tough hull materials, they lose their buoyancy quickly if gashed by underwater obstacles such as coral heads. Inflatable models would obviously fare the worst if torn.
Where To Buy
A variety of manufacturers offer tandem kayaks online. Prevalent retailers include Perception, Necky, Old Town, Wilderness Systems, NRS, Aire Inc., Ocean, L.L. Bean, Native, Advanced Elements, Pelican and Apex. Packages offer savings and often include a kayak, life vest, paddles and a pump (with inflatable models). Online sporting goods clearinghouses, such as NexTag, offer comparison shopping and discounts. National sporting goods retailers such as REI, Eastern Mountain Sports and L.L. Bean offer online and in-store shopping. Local and regional sporting goods outlets provide in-person shopping and advice on what models are appropriate under specific conditions.
Cost
Prices range from as low as $360 for an Apex open cockpit model to more than $2,800 for Aire's Sea Tiger package. Accessories such as lightweight sails, rudder kits and cockpit covers are available at additional cost. Costs for tandem kayaks in general range from about $500 to $1,500.
