10 best touring kayaks

Touring kayaks are a specific type of kayak designed for extended paddling trips, often over long distances and across various water conditions. These kayaks are engineered to provide stability, speed, and efficiency, making them suitable for exploring large bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Here are key features and aspects associated with touring kayaks:

Design for Long Distances: Touring kayaks are built for efficiency and speed, allowing paddlers to cover long distances with less effort.The hull design is often longer and narrower compared to recreational kayaks.
Length and Stability: Touring kayaks are generally longer than other types of kayaks, which contributes to increased speed and straight-line tracking. The longer waterline enhances stability and makes the kayak more capable of maintaining a straight course.
Tracking Performance: Tracking refers to the ability of a kayak to move in a straight line without excessive drifting. Touring kayaks often have improved tracking performance, making them suitable for paddling in open water where maintaining a straight course is essential.
Storage Capacity: Touring kayaks are designed with ample storage space to accommodate gear and supplies for extended trips. This includes waterproof hatches in the bow and stern for storing items such as camping equipment, food, and clothing.
Comfortable Seating: Extended paddling trips require comfortable seating. Touring kayaks typically feature adjustable and padded seats, providing support for long hours on the water.
Bulkheads and Hatch Covers: Many touring kayaks have bulkheads with hatch covers, creating sealed compartments that enhance buoyancy and prevent water from entering the kayak. This design adds safety and helps keep the stored gear dry.
Materials: Touring kayaks are often constructed from lightweight yet durable materials such as fiberglass, plastic, or composite materials. The choice of material can impact the kayak's weight, performance, and durability.
Deck Rigging: Deck rigging, including bungee cords and storage areas on the deck, allows paddlers to secure additional gear like dry bags, maps, or water bottles within easy reach.
Skeg or Rudder Systems: Some touring kayaks are equipped with skeg or rudder systems. These features help with directional control in windy or challenging conditions, providing better stability and maneuverability.
Versatility: While touring kayaks are optimized for long-distance paddling, they are often versatile enough to handle different water conditions, from calm lakes to more challenging coastal environments.
Paddle Compatibility: Touring kayaks are typically designed to be used with longer, more efficient paddles that suit the extended and efficient paddling strokes associated with touring.

When choosing a touring kayak, paddlers should consider factors such as their skill level, the type of water they plan to explore, and the specific features that meet their needs for extended journeys on the water.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best touring kayaks on the market

Be a Better Driver Subliminal Affirmations: Good Driving Skills & Control Road Rage, Solfeggio Tones, Binaural Beats, Self Help Meditation Hypnosis

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Faster: How a Jewish Driver, an American Heiress, and a Legendary Car Beat Hitler's Best

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Alone at Dawn: Medal of Honor Recipient John Chapman and the Untold Story of the World's Deadliest Special Operations Force

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BKC SK287 Angler Touring Kayak – 14.75-Foot Solo Distance Sit-in Travel Kayak for Open Water Paddling, Collapsible Paddle Included

Brooklyn Kayak Company

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

THE PERFECT KAYAK FOR DISTANCE TRAVEL: The Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC SK287 has everything an angler needs for the ultimate aquatic adventure except for a reel, bait, and a bit of luck.
FULLY LOADED ACCESSORIES: Our kayak comes equipped with an internal seat, adjustable aluminum paddle, pedal-operated rudder, 2 waterproof hatches, 2 flush mount rod holds, and 1 bungee cargo tie down. We have all the accessories you need for your next excursion.
CRAFTED FOR STABILITY: Our roto molded single piece high density polyethylene material is superior to inflatable kayaks and a capable craft on ocean, lake, or river, while supporting up to 330 lbs.
BUILT-IN FISHING ROD HOLDERS AND RUDDER CONTROL: The BKC SK287's pair of flush-mount fishing rod holders keep your fishing poles out of the way during paddling or keep lines in the water during trolling or still fishing. The BKC SK287 features a foot pedal-operated rudder for ultimate control in all water conditions and helps you deftly steer around obstacles or through chop, without paddle steering required.
WATER RESISTANT STORAGE: Keep all your valuables dry inside the BKC SK287's dual watertight storage hatches. With ample watertight storage and a large cargo area, bring along enough supplies for multiple-day adventures. The rear cargo space with bungee cord will hold all of your fishing stuff and outdoor gear.Rod Mounts: A pair of flush-mount fishing rod holders keep your fishing poles out of the way during paddling or keep lines in the water during trolling or still fishing

User questions & answers

Question:	what is the circumference of the cockpit? Any spray skirt sizes/products to specifically recommend
Answer:	Hello, The cockpit size is 24'' L x 18'' W. We have no size recommendation. To choose the best spray skirt, you have to make sure it fits tightly to the kayak rim, while you feel comfortable on your waist. Thank you.
Question:	Is there space between the rear of the seat and the rear bulk head to put a battery
Answer:	YES
Question:	is there a bulk head in the front
Answer:	yes
Question:	Does anyone have one of these and can provide a comprehensive review
Answer:	My husband loves how easy to get speed up. Turning though is very hard. Great on flat water. Not good in open ocean, but good on lakes or bays.

Product features

LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY

The BKC SK287 features a front and rear watertight hatch and a cargo area with bungee tie-downs help secure the supplies you need for any adventure.

CRAFTED FOR STABILITY

No matter the conditions, our BKC SK287 is ready to cruise: it rides currents, slices through the chop, and glides over still water with effortless grace.

PERFECT FISHING KAYAK

Keep your fishing lines in the water hands-free with the BKC SK287 flush-mounted rod holders.

CONTROL

The BKC SK287 features a foot pedal-operated rudder for ultimate control in all water conditions and helps you deftly steer around obstacles or through chop, without paddle steering required.

BKC KC274 Rolling Kayak Cart

Haul a kayak, canoe, surfboard, or SUP with the BKC KC274 Rolling Kayak Cart Chair. Don't work hard, work smart.

BKC DB281 Dry Bag

Keep your supplies reliably dry in the BKC DB281 Dry Bag. Available in 5 different sizes (5L,15L, 25L, 30L, and 40L) for all your gear. Our dry bags are made with puncture and tear resistant materials for years of use.

BKC Deluxe Paddle Leash

Never lose your paddle with the BKC Deluxe Paddle Leash. Constructed for rugged use with an adjustable collar for your paddle and a solid brass clip connection to your hull or top of your SUP, your paddle will never get lost even if you lose your grip. It's one piece of gear you can count on for years.

BKC RC291 Cooler

The BKC RC291 Multi-Day Camping and Fisherman's Cooler KEEPS THINGS COLD, very cold. Ice will stay frozen for multiple days thanks to our reliable freezer-style gasket closure and thick walls filled with polyurethane foam insulation. Its durable roto-molded construction and UV resistant materials ensure it will be around for many years of heavy use.

Vifucz Inflatable Boat, Touring Kayak Set with Oars and High Output Air Pump, Suitable for Water Sports

Vifucz

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【Qualified Material】Our inflatable boat is made of durable 3x Layer PVC material which is saline-alkali and sunshine resistance, anti-aging and corrosion resistance, with a soft inflatable floor that is not easily scratched by sharps and provides long-term water entertainment.
【No Leak】Our inflatable boats are Designed with 3 independent air tubes, made from the highest quality 1100D PVC fabric available to ensure your safety. Thermal bonding seams provide first-class air retention and fine manufacturing processes to ensure no leaks which is the mix of security and practicality.
【Have Fun on Water】This is a dinghy that can be rowed, sailed and motored. Take a breath, put this portable dinghy in the truck of your car, take your family or friends, have a pleasant drifting on the lake or a exciting surfing on the sea.
【Great for enjoyment】The inflatable boat is easy to use, the valve can be quickly inflated and deflated, allowing you to enjoy the leisure time on the water quickly. Max Load: 700 lbs (4 adults), it is the best choice for your water holiday, It is a good companion for your holiday with family and friends.
【Easy to Use】Our inflatable boats fold up when you don't need them, saving you storage space. Easy to transport and carry during summer vacations.

Flydem Inflatable Kayak,Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump,2-Person…

Flydem

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

We use thicker materials with a thickness of 7 cin,Super tough laminate PVC with polyester core: light weight and highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight
Our products come from non-COVID-19 areas. In order to ensure the safety of users, the production and packaging process has undergone strict inspections. Please rest assured to use.
The appearance of our products adopts extremely bright colors to ensure that search and rescue personnel can find it from a long distance when an accident occurs.
Kayak Specifications - Exterior: 10.5’(L) x 30”(W) x 13”(H) / Weight: 31 Lbs. / Capacity: 352Lbs. 2 Adults + Child, Gear, or a Furry Friend / Inflation Time: 9 Mins. / Inflation Pressure: 3 PSI Side Tubes & 6 PSI Floor
We usually deliver by international express, UPS, DHL or Fedex. Ensure that the goods are delivered to you in time, usually within 10 days.

User questions & answers

Question:	What kind of life vests come with this kyack
Answer:	Material, thick Oxford cloth, filled with foam inside。The default is an adult life jacket, unless you request a replacement。Buoyancy >=16.5 lb Recommended weight is less than 220 lb。size:21.6”16*”2”
Question:	is it US coast guard approved
Answer:	This product does not do the relevant certification you mentioned, you know that it takes a lot of time and money. However, this product is excellent value for money in terms of materials and workmanship. So far, we have not received feedback from buyers on quality issues, so you can buy with confidence.
Question:	Do you use triple laminent or better
Answer:	My kayak is inflatable, thick PVC, 70cin, the thickness of the general inflatable boat is 35cin,。life jacket，Material, thick Oxford cloth, filled with foam inside

Wilderness Systems Apex Fiberglass Paddle

Confluence Outdoors

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Product description

The all-new Apex Glass touring paddle is unlike any other, delivering maximum control and power for paddlers seeking peak performance and achievement. This paddle features a fiberglass foam core blade with a durable carbon-reinforced edge and a 50% carbon/50% fiberglass shaft. Well-suited to a variety of water types, the smooth hydrodynamic surfaces of the Apex’s lightweight foam core blades deliver crisp, clean and flutter-free strokes. Paddlers can customize both the length of the shaft and the degree of feathering with the simple flip of the lower-profile lever. Adjustability also enables family members of different sizes to use the paddle comfortably.

Designed to deliver maximum boat control for recreational and touring paddlers
Features a lightweight yet powerful mid-size foam core blade that works well in any type of water conditions
Delivers crisp, clean and flutter-free strokes without compromising power and efficiency
Adjustable Size – 205cm base length expandable up to 225cm
50% carbon/50% fiberglass shaft - weighs just 32oz
Works well with rec/touring kayaks from Wilderness Systems and other brands
Fiberglass foam core blade with a carbon reinforced edge

Product features

Light weight, Powerful, Versatile

Wilderness Systems Pungo Kayak Paddle for Recreation/Touring | Fiberglass or Carbon Fiber Blade | Adjustable Carbon Fiber Shaft (220-240cm)

Wilderness Systems

Based on 44 reviews Check latest price

designed to deliver maximum boat control for recreational and touring paddlers
features a lightweight yet powerful mid-size foam core blade that works well in any type of water conditions
delivers crisp, clean and flutter-free strokes without compromising power and efficiency
adjustable size – 220cm base length expandable up to 240cm
works well with rec/touring kayaks from wilderness systems and other brands
Sport type: Kayaking

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the Pungo carbon paddles foam core or straight carbon blades. Not clear on other sites
Answer:	The Pungo Carbon blades are compression molded carbon around a foam spine, but they are not "full foam core" blades like the Wilderness Systems Apex Carbon, Apex Glass, and Alpha Carbon Angler paddles.
Question:	I just got the paddle and it feels great. It is not grabbing when i slide the two side together. Any one have an idea or is it just not working
Answer:	Mine does not grab. I slide the two pieces together to the desired length, then I lock it. I have used it on more than 25 paddle trips, usually 3 to 6 miles each. Never came loose. When the paddle is over, I unlock it and the two pieces easily slide apart to stow in the car.

Product features

Incredible Performance for Maximum Boat Control

The Pungo paddle was designed and optimized for the Pungo family of kayaks, but also works exceptionally well with other rec and touring kayaks – The paddle’s shape, size and proprietary blade curvature deliver the optimal angle of entry and stroke depth for smooth, efficient, flutter-free strokes regardless of paddling style or experience level. With a simple flip of a low-profile lever, the Pungo Paddle can be adjusted to fit virtually any paddler, model of kayak or stroke style.

The Carbon style is the lightest weight option and features a carbon fiber blade and 100% carbon shaft.

Wilderness Systems stands behind this premium paddle line with our complete satisfaction “I’d Rather Be Paddling” policy.

Z&J SPORT Kayak Paddle Fiberglass Blade,10cm Adjustable Carbon Shaft for Ocean/River/Lack, 2-Piece Paddle for Touring Kayak，with 1 Free Paddle Bag

HANGZHOU ZIJIE SPORTS OARS CO., LTD

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【Adjustable Carbon Shaft】Ultralight and ultra-stiff carbon shaft make use of dry winding to achieve medium stiffness. Anti-corrosion aluminum alloy adjuster can easily adjust the length(200-210cm) and angle(0-90 degrees).
【Free Bag for Kayak Pddle】128cm paddle bag with compartment and foam provides sufficient protection for your 2-piece paddle. It is convenient for storage and carrying.
【Duable Seakayak Paddle】Blade size:SK-II(7"x18.9"/18x48cm). Multi-layer tiled glass fiber and PMI foam as stalk of blade have a long service life. It will not swell under the sun.
【Glass Fiber Paddle Blade】 The multi-layer paving of glass fiber makes the paddle hard and durable.Asymmetrical shape gives you smooth and stable paddling. suitable for beginners to relax.
【Lightweight Seakayak for Touring】Heavy-duty drip rings to keep the water from running down the shaft to keep your hands dry. 5cm wide Oval shaft for a less fatiguing grip even for paddlers with small hands.

User questions & answers

Question:	What is the differance between c-sl, c-sm and c-ss
Answer:	Hello, It is just different blade size: C-SS(8.1''16.5''), C-SM(8.1''17.3''), C-SL(8.3''*18.4'').

AQUAGLIDE Navarro 130 Convertible Inflatable Kayak with Drop Stitch Floor- 1 Person Touring Kayak without Cover, Green

AQUAGLIDE

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An intermediate cross-over touring boat, the Navarro gets you on the water in all weather. Whether you are gliding across a mirror lake at dawn or braving the rapids, Aquaglide knows about passion for paddling. The Navarro features drop stitched floor contstruction for higher pressure inflation making the floor more rigid for paddling performance without adding weight. Named after the Navarro River, our line of versatile kayaks incorporates features to handle the unknown. With HexShell covered pontoons and remove-able zip on decks, this line offers a vessel that takes to the water rain or shine as a value line of boats. Other key features include quick release fin, drain plug, Boston valve for tubes, Halkey-Roberts for floor, Velcro seat and footrest adjustment system, zip open dry compartments for storage, accessory strap, paddle keeper, molded handle and D ring. Optional cover available, not included.

TOURING BOAT: Navarro is equipped to handle the unknown. With industry leading drop stitched floors, zip on decks, & Hex Shell covered pontoons, this durable lightweight inflatable handles it all.
CREATE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE: Our inflatable kayaks are designed to play as hard as you do. Portable, lightweight & built to last, they're created for rapid waters and touring.
BUILT TO PERFORM: Features quick release fin, drain plug, Velcro seat and footrest adjustment system, zip open dry compartments for storage, accessory strap, paddle keeper, molded handle and D ring.
SPECIFICS:L 13'3" x W 37" (L 404cm x W 94cm). Weight: 35 lbs. Capacity: 300 lbs. (136 kg) 1 Person. Includes: Kayak, seat and storage bag. Warranty: 1-Year Limited. Optional cover available, not included.
AQUAGLIDE: Our passion for water sports drives us to engineer some of the best boating technologies available so you get the performance you want combined with the hassle-free portability you need.

User questions & answers

Question:	What pump connections are needed to inflate the Kayak
Answer:	Maximum capacity is 325 lbs.
Question:	Does the seat lean back a little while rowing or is it straight back
Answer:	If you are asking if there is another part you will need between the bait board and a Scotty bracket, the answer is no. There is a post below the board that goes into the bracket's socket. A handy accessory would be the Scotty Gear Head Mount Extender so you can position the board exactly where you want it.
Question:	Can this handle dog's nails? is a skeg included? how does it handle as far as straight tracking and turns? i am considering a purchase
Answer:	Not sure . Mine sets in a Scotty quick disconnect and slides in a gear track .