What Is A Tandem Kayak? | + 5 Things To Know About Them!

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Kayaking alone can sometimes be long and boring. Well, the good news is you can enjoy this activity with friends. If you already did some research on how to paddle with a partner, you probably came across the term “tandem kayak”.

But you might have no idea what it actually is. That’s good because I’m here to help you figure out everything you need to know about tandem kayaks. It might be the perfect solution to go on paddling adventures with a loved one.

First things first, everyone should understand what this article is all about. So here’s a short definition of the main subject for today.

What Is A Tandem Kayak?

A tandem kayak is a type of kayak with two seats to accommodate more than one paddler at the same time. It’s a long boat ranging from 18 to 24 feet, depending on the model. Also called two-person or double kayaks, they are ideal for couples and friends to go paddling together.

Tandem Kayaking Barefoot

Before using a tandem kayak, there are some things you should know about it. This boat designed for two people might not be the best option for your situation, even if you want to paddle with someone else.

Sometimes, getting one single kayak for each person can be more appropriate. But tandem models are well-suited for certain purposes, and they have a lot of advantages to offer. Thus, let’s discover them together.

5 Common Questions About Tandem Kayaks!

Now that you know what they are, you probably wonder how they work and why they are so different from solo kayaks. Well, I also had the same questions not a long time ago. So let me reply to some of the most frequent concerns people have about tandem kayaks.

Are Tandem Kayaks Hard To Use?

Compared to single models, tandem kayaks are generally harder to use. With another paddler and extra weight, navigating on the water isn’t as easy as if you were alone. That’s why a tandem might be slightly more difficult to navigate for beginners. But with good paddling skills and some practice, you should be alright.

Although they aren’t simple to use, tandem kayaks can be great for introducing someone to this water sport. Learning might also be more fun and efficient with an experienced paddler in the same boat.

The thing with a double kayak is that it kind of combines the two people’s skills and divides them into two. So it can be less complicated for a beginner to get started in a tandem with an advanced partner than alone in a solo model.

Can You Use A Tandem Kayak Alone?

You can use a tandem kayak alone, but it’s not recommended. It will be more difficult to navigate in a boat with an empty seat place and no partner to help you. Tandem kayaks are designed to be used by two people, so using them alone can increase the risk of running into problems, and it won’t be comfortable.

The boat size, weight distribution, sit emplacement, and many other features of a two-person model aren’t intended for solo use. Your paddling experience will therefore be affected if you don’t have an appropriate kayak for when you want to go alone on the water.

If you really want a two-person kayak that can comfortably be used alone, you should choose one with a convertible design. My recommendation would be the AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak or the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two.

They are both adjustable for solo paddling. However, versatility often means you will have to sacrifice a little bit of performance. So I would still recommend one tandem and solo model if you can afford two kayaks.

Read more about whether or not you should use a two-person kayak alone!

Which Is Better? Single or Double Kayak?

Depending on your needs and what you’re looking for, both single and double kayaks can be good options. Tandem models are usually more stable, will go faster, and can boost the confidence of new paddlers. On the other hand, single kayaks offer more freedom and maneuverability. 

Like most intermediate to advanced kayakers, I prefer solo paddling. Being in a boat with someone else will restrict you a lot, and it’s not as easy as most people think. Nonetheless, my dad used to do tandem kayaking with me when I was a kid.

It has definitely helped me develop more confidence and improve my skills. But now I would rather use my single kayak than paddle in a double one. The only reason I might take a tandem model in the future is to introduce someone to this sport, just like my dad did for me.

At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preferences. Both options have pros and cons, which I will get into after answering the questions. So you will have to experience both to know if a tandem or single kayak is better for you.

Tandem Kayaking | Who Sits Where?

In a tandem kayak, the paddler with more experience and strength should sit in the back. The person behind is responsible for controlling and maneuvering the boat, which requires paddling skills and strong arms. So beginners should sit in the front place of a two-person kayak to make the ride more enjoyable for everyone.

Where Should The Heavier Person Sit In A Kayak?

Apart from the experience, weight can also influence where people should sit in a tandem kayak. For navigation purposes, it’s always better if the heavier paddler is in the back. But I wouldn’t place an inexperienced person there only to have more weight on the rear.

Someone with good skills in bad conditions will generally do better than a beginner in excellent conditions. If both paddlers have a similar level of experience with tandem kayaking, then the heavier person should probably sit in the back.

Who Steers A Tandem Kayak?

In a tandem kayak, it’s the person in the back that steers the boat. Also called the helmsman or helmswoman, he or she has the task to direct the kayak where to go. The front paddler generally sets the pace while the person in the back follows it and controls the direction at the same time.

So you can understand why it’s generally recommended to put the more experienced kayaker in the rear position. I’ve seen a few exceptions where the best paddler is in the front while still being the one who’s steering the boat.

The most important is that not both people try to maneuver the kayak. Otherwise, it will probably not end well. Steering a boat alone is already difficult, so you risk bothering each other more than anything else if the two of you do it at the same time.

How To Paddle A Tandem Kayak?

In general, the best way to paddle a tandem kayak is to be synchronized with your partner. Paddling in unison allows you to go faster and prevent the paddles from clashing. The person in the front will paddle normally to set the pace, and the helmsman or helmswoman has to follow and direct the tandem kayak when needed.

How To Turn A Tandem Kayak?

For small direction changes, the person sitting in the back can maneuver the tandem kayak with the strength of his paddle strokes. Then, paddling twice on a specific side will make the boat turn on the other side. You can also perform a reverse stroke while the person in front paddles normally on the opposite side.

Thus, navigating a tandem kayak is generally harder than a single model. Unless you’re in the front, you have to follow your partner’s pace and control the boat on your own. It’s not simple, but anyone can do it with time and practice.

Tandem Kayaks | Pros & Cons

Now that I’ve answered most questions you probably had regarding tandem kayaks, it’s time to understand what’s good and bad about them. I may have already touched on some advantages and drawbacks up there, but let’s compare them and go into more detail.

Pros

Ideal For Kayaking Introduction!

The best use for a tandem kayak is to introduce people that are new to this sport. Paddling alone in a boat can seem very intimidating for beginners. So having a more experienced paddler to help can’t hurt anyone.

With someone behind to maneuver the kayak, the person in the front will be able to work on his technique and enjoy his first experience more. The feeling of not being left on its own can also give a boost in confidence, which is always good when you’re just getting started.

You Won’t Paddle Alone!

Another benefit is the company you will have to share your paddling adventures with. It’s generally more fun and safe to have someone with you on the water. Kayaking in tandem is excellent for bonding too.

More Room For Storage!

Regarding the practical use of double kayaks, you can take advantage of the extra space. It’s always convenient to have more room, especially if you plan to do long trips or have a lot of gear to store. A long boat with two seats can also be suitable for bringing your dog.

Tandem Kayaks Are Faster!

With the paddling force of two people combined, your speed can increase drastically. As long as you’re synchronized, it will be easier to go fast and keep a good pace for extended periods. That’s why a tandem kayak is usually better for long trips.

Cons

Bulky Kayak Design!

Heavy and long enough to accommodate more than one person, tandem models aren’t convenient to carry and transport. You will very likely need two strong adults and an appropriate roof rack for bringing a tandem kayak where you want to go paddling.

It’s Also Called The Divorce Kayak!

Although kayaking in the same boat as someone else can be great for bonding, it can also lead to confrontations and disputes. Tandem paddling requires a lot of communication and teamwork, but some people won’t be able to do so in a kayak.

Frustration, impatience, and wanting to control everything can easily ruin your day on the water. Some couples or friends might end up arguing more than paddling. Thus, sometimes it’s better to opt for two single kayaks instead of one tandem.

Lack Of Freedom!

The main reason I don’t really enjoy paddling with someone else in a boat is that you don’t have as much control as if you were alone. Kayaking solo allows you to go where you want, do what you want, when you want, and only if you want. With a partner, it’s not as simple.

For example, I enjoy paddling in rapids and trying some tricks from time to time. In a tandem kayak, the boat and my companion might not allow me to do everything I want. So it doesn’t provide you as much freedom and maneuverability as a single model.

Different Kayaking Experience!

Another downside to consider is that paddling in tandem is a totally different game. The basics are the same, but navigating a double kayak can be very difficult. With the steep learning curve, it might take a while before getting used to this type of boat.

That’s why I wouldn’t recommend it for two beginners. Kayaking is already not easy at the start, don’t make it worse. At least one paddler should have some experience to make your tandem adventures as fun and safe as possible.

What Are The Best Tandem Kayaks?

Once you’ve figured out whether or not a tandem kayak is what you should get, you still have to purchase the right one. There are different types of boats designed for two people. So here are some factors you should consider to choose an option that suits your needs.

The Environment In Which You Will Kayak!

First of all, you should know where you plan to go paddling. You won’t need the same kayak to go in the ocean as you would in a river or a lake. The water conditions will highly influence what you should be looking for.

In general, tandem kayaks are divided into 5 categories: Sea/Touring, Recreational, Whitewater, Fishing & Inflatable. The type you should get will mainly depend on the intended use as well as the environment you will paddle in.

What To Look For In A Tandem Kayak?

The perfect kayak for you will mainly vary according to your personal needs. However, it’s also essential to analyze your options and understand which is the best. Apart from the type of tandem kayak, you should also consider its material, design, and other features.

I highly recommend you choose a boat model that’s durable, convenient, performant, and comfortable. But it also has to respect your budget and be suitable for what you want to use it for. So here are a few recommendations for tandem kayaks to help you find the right one.

Last Thoughts About Tandem Kayaks!

Finally, you don’t need two single kayaks to paddle with a friend. Tandems can be great for introducing someone to this sport and then enjoying it together. Having a boat with two seats has a lot of advantages.

Although you won’t have as much freedom, and it’s more complicated to maneuver than a single model, it’s still great for paddling in a duo. Just make sure the paddler in the back has good paddling skills, and everything should be alright.

2-Person Kayaks

You can also use a tandem kayak alone, but it will be less comfortable and easy to control. Whether you choose a double or a single model, I’m sure you will have a lot of fun paddling with friends. Now it’s time to invest in the right boat and get ready for your next adventure.

See You On The Water!