Sun Dolphin Bali 10 Ss
If youre looking for a budget kayak for messing around on local ponds and streams, then you should check out the Sun Dolphin Bali SS. Its a lightweight kayak thats popular with beginners and people wanting a cheap boat for occasional use.
Although its marketed as a 10-foot kayak, it actually measures 9.5 feet in length. This makes it a great kayak for kids, as its easy to maneuver and durable enough to cope with being dragged over rocky beaches.
It also comes in some fun colors, including lime green, hot pink, and tangerine orange. As well as looking great, bright colors also make you more visible on the water an important consideration if there are other boats around. Also read our Sun Dolphin Bali 10 ss review.
Ocean Kayak Scrambler Best Kayak For Tall People
At 11 feet 6 inches, the Ocean Kayak Scrambler is longer than most of the solo sit-on-top kayaks in this review. Not only does this make it more suitable for large paddlers, but it also improves its tracking in the water.
The Scrambler is super stable on lakes, rivers, and the ocean. Its a great kayak for both beginner and more experienced paddlers who want a versatile boat for different types of water.
Another thing that sets the Scrambler apart from other models is the generous gear storage. There are large, open storage areas in the bow and stern, with bungee cords to hold items in place. In addition, a cam lock storage hatch gives access to a small compartment in front of the seat. Theres also a cup holder for your morning coffee!
The flexible storage and excellent performance on the water make the Ocean Kayak Scrambler a great touring kayak, though Id recommend adding a bit more padding to the seat if youre paddling for long periods.
Overall Size & Weight
Sit on top kayaks come in a wide range of different weights and sizes. In general, boats that are smaller will also be lighter, though extra features will almost always add weight to a kayak.
While a shorter boat often means weight savings and enhanced portability, it comes at the expense of tracking ability and gear storage capacity. Thus, if youre looking to carry a lot of gear or youd like a boat thats easier to paddle in a straight line, a longer, slightly heavier kayak might be a good choice.
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Perception Kayak Triumph 13 Sit On Top Kayak
£769.00
Brand: Perception KayaksProduct Model:KAY-TRI1340
The Perception Kayak Triumph 13 sit on top kayak is one of a kind offering the performance of a closed cockpit kayak but on a SOT. Its ideal for touring on lakes and rivers keeping you comfortable with the supportive Comfort seat and backrest thats supplied with the kayak. Its also equally as useful for fishing out on the sea.
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‘ Perception Pescador Sit On Kayaks
12′ Perception Pescador Sit On Kayaks. LIKE NEW condition.These kayaks have been used a grand total of 4 times since purchased brand new over a year ago. They together, with the CARBON FIBER paddles, cost us over $1400.00. They have been garage kept since new. We are selling them, because we ori …
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Why Choose A Sit
As the name suggests, sit-on-top kayaks dont have an enclosed cockpit. Instead, you sit on top of the kayak when paddling. Sit-on-top kayaks arent better or worse than sit-in kayaks theyre just different.
Advantages of a Sit-on-top Kayak
Heres why you might choose a sit-on-top kayak over a sit-in kayak:
- You are much less likely to capsize a sit-on-top kayak as theyre so stable. If you do manage to capsize, then the open cockpit means theres no risk of you getting trapped in the boat.
- Sit-on-top kayaks are literally unsinkable. Unlike sit-in kayaks, which can fill with water if you capsize, sit-on-top kayaks have a sealed hull that traps air and prevents them from sinking.
- Because theyre wide and stable, theyre a great choice for fishing, scuba diving, or diving off.
- Many sit-on-top kayaks have a tank well in the stern thats large enough for a cool box or other bulky items.
- Sit-on-top kayaks have scupper holes that allow any water that splashes into the cockpit to drain out.
Disadvantages of a Sit-on-top Kayak
Of course, there are some downsides to using a sit-on-top kayak:
In summary, sit-on-top kayaks are a great option for beginner and recreational kayakers who prioritize fun over performance.
Best Perception Kayaks For 2023
Paddling Buyers Guide
Perception has been making kayaks for over 40 years. Throughout the decades, their boat designs constantly evolved, playing with hull shapes, volume and materials to build better performing kayaks. In 1977, Perception introduced some of the first rotomolded plastic kayaks, a revolutionary innovation that paved the way for kayakings explosive growth in the 1990s and early 2000s. Until that point, kayakers had been limited to hand-made composite craft.
Durable, affordable andmost importantlyeasily manufactured, plastic kayaks allowed for mass production and distribution. Throughout the 80s and 90s, Perception Kayaks brought the sport to the general public with industry-leading recreational, touring and whitewater designs. Their experimentation with kayak design led to many of the modern shapes we see today.
Today, Perception Kayaks is owned by the Confluence Outdoor group, which also includes five other paddling companies, among them Wilderness Systems and Dagger Kayaks. In more recent years, Perceptions focus has shifted towards recreational sit-inside and sit-on-top kayaks, fishing kayaks and day touring boats. These kayaks continue to be made with durable rotomolded polyethylene plastic, keeping the prices low.
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Ocean Kayak Malibu 95 Best Sea Kayak
If you want to play in the surf then Ocean Kayak should be your first port of call. The Malibu 9.5 is a popular sea kayak with lots of features for your money.
Even for a sit-on-top kayak, the Malibu is wide. With a 33-inch platform to keep you stable, itll take a lot of effort to capsize this boat. It doesnt track too badly, given its short and wide, but its more suited to playtime than a long day paddling on flat water.
The molded-in seat comes with a seat pad and adjustable backrest. The seat is higher than on a lot of sit-on-top kayaks, meaning you have a better chance of keeping your butt dry.
There are two large tank wells , plus a dry storage hatch. With three cup holders, theres no excuse not to stay hydrated on the water.
Ocean Kayak Tetra 10 Best For Experienced Kayakers
When you buy a sit-on-top kayak, you often sacrifice speed for stability. It can sometimes feel as if youre pushing a truck through the water. If you want a sit-on-top kayak but also want to be able to keep up with your mates, you should check out the Ocean Kayak Tetra 10.
If youve tried other sit-on-tops, youll immediately notice the difference with the Tetra 10. Its agile and nimble, and takes a lot less effort to propel through the water.
It is less stable than other sit-on-top kayaks, but if youre not afraid to get wet, the payoff in terms of performance will be worth it.
The ease of paddling also makes this a great sit-on-top kayak for camping or touring. The seat is comfortable, and the adjustable foot braces allow you to position your feet precisely. Theres also a generous amount of storage, with a large tank well in the stern and a click-seal bow hatch.
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Single Sit On Top Kayak Uk Manufactured
Perception’s top selling sit on top kayak designed for general purpose paddling for all the family to enjoy. The Scooter is great for for light touring, surfing, beach fun and a little fishing.
The Perception Scooter has been discontinued, please click here to see the new Wavesport Scooter
- Features / Spec
Perception Scooter
The Perception Scooter is one of the UK’s best selling sit on tops. The Scooter seating area – gives good primary back support and room for a child to sit in front of you. The Scooter is born & bread in the UK, you can’t say that to often, now can you? The exceptional stability and user friendly handling means you need look no further for a versatile kayak to suit fun seekers and families at the beach, lake or river.
Paddlers of all abilities benefit from a smooth and predictable ride thanks to the ingenious hull design and even volume distribution. The perfectly combined tracking channels and defined skeg work in unison to offer both directional stability for exploring and manoeuvrability when surfing. More adventurous paddlers will appreciate its rails for carving turns on waves, we recommend a set of leg straps for additional control in the surf.
Features
- 13cm screw hatch with mesh bag
Dimensions
- Length: 295 cm / 9ft 8in.
- Width: 75 cm / 30in.
Perception Kayak Buying Guide
Understanding the different types of Perception kayaks will help you find the most suitable kayak for your needs. Their current lineup includes six different categories: sit-on-top recreational, sit-inside recreational, sit-inside day touring, fishing, tandem and kids kayaks. Lets take a closer look at these categories, along with some of the models within them, to help you find the best Perception kayak for your paddling aspirations.
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Features To Look For In A Sit
Durable Materials and a Stable Design
Most sit-on-top kayaks are made from high-density polyethylene a hard, durable plastic. This makes them long-lasting and easy to maintain.
Lighter kayaks are easier to transport, but will typically have thinner plastic, which could affect their long-term durability.
As you sit on top of the kayak, your center of gravity is higher than in a sit-in kayak. This is why choosing a kayak with sufficient weight capacity is important. Larger paddlers will find a wider kayak with a greater weight capacity more stable and comfortable to paddle.
When calculating the capacity you need, dont forget to account for the gear youll be carrying with you.
Scupper Holes and Drainage
Most sit-on-top kayaks come equipped with scupper holes in the cockpit. These operate as a self-bailing system, meaning you dont have to carry a bilge pump.
Although theyre effective at preventing water from building up in the cockpit, water can splash up through the holes in choppy conditions. If there are scupper holes in the seat, this means you could end up with a wet butt.
A Comfortable Seat
A padded seat is a must if youll be spending more than an hour in your kayak. Look for a padded seat cushion and an adjustable backrest for maximum comfort. You can add a seat cushion or stadium seat to most kayaks, so this may not be a deal-breaker.
Different Storage Options
Fishing Features Such as Flush Mount Rod Holders
What To Think About When Buying A Sit
What Do You Plan to Use It For?
Sit-on-top kayaks are generally designed for recreational use on flat water. Theyre ideal for small lakes, ponds, and smooth-flowing rivers. Most models can be used on calm coastal inlets, and some, such as the Ocean Kayak Malibu 9.5, are specifically designed for surf.
The best kayak for you will depend on what you plan to use it for. If youll mainly be messing around in the shallows for a couple of hours on weekends and vacations, then a stable, low-cost kayak will do the job.
If you want to kayak for longer periods, then a comfortable seat is a must. Youll want space to stretch your legs out and accessible storage for snacks, drinks, and spare clothes.
For kayak fishing, youll want a stable platform with fishing rod holders, somewhere to stash your paddle, and plenty of storage.
As a general rule, shorter kayaks are more maneuverable, whereas longer kayaks tend to track better and be more efficient over long distances.
What Size Kayak Do You Need?
Choosing the right size kayak for you will depend on various factors, including:
- Your height and build
- How much space you need for gear storage
- Where youre going to store your kayak
- How youll transport your kayak to the water
The length and width of a kayak also affect its performance. Long, thin kayaks glide through the water more easily, whereas wide kayaks tend to be more stable.
Do You Need a Single or Tandem Kayak?
Whats Your Budget?
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Perception Pescador 10 Best Sit
The Perception Pescador 10 is my top pick for both beginner and more experienced paddlers. Its a popular, versatile kayak that you can use for recreational paddling and fishing on lakes, rivers, and calm seas. Its reasonably priced and offers an excellent balance between price and performance.
The Pescador 10 is designed for calm waters and can hold its own against more expensive models when paddling on ponds and slow-moving rivers. Its stable, easy to maneuver, and tracks straight as an arrow.
For a compact kayak, the Pescador 10 feels spacious. Larger users can have a tough time finding a short kayak thats comfortable and will accommodate their weight. The 325-pound capacity of the Pescador 10 means this isnt an issue. The padded seat and adjustable backrest ensure all-day comfort for paddlers of all shapes and sizes.
Theres a lot of storage and a pair of gear tracks to mount accessories. Two fishing rod holders are located behind the seat. However, to hold rods securely, you really need to extend these using the Rod-X Pro rod holders. Also read our review of the Perception Pescador 10 sit on top kayak.
Shopping For A Used Perception Kayak
If you can find a used Perception kayak, youll spend less and get more value out of your dollars. Perception kayaks have been around for over 40 years, and they are distributed across North America. Theres a good chance you will be able to find both current and classic models on the used market. Keep these pointers in mind when shopping for a used Perception kayak.
Knowing where to look is the first step. To find used Perception kayaks, check online classifieds like eBay, Kijiji, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Browsing these websites or searching, for example, eBay Perception kayak may yield models that are now discontinued. Even though these kayaks are no longer being produced, they are still great designs.
Some models were discontinued to avoid competition or redundancy with Dagger, another brand in the Confluence Outdoor family, and others may have just gone out of style. If they are in good condition, these older models may be a perfect fit for your needs.
Keep in mind that it may be difficult to source replacement parts for discontinued models. Seats, foot pegs, buckles and bungees are all parts that may need to be replaced on an older, used kayak. If some of these parts are missing or damaged, it may not be a deal-breaker. Contact Perception and see if they have any compatible replacement parts. If you are handy, you may also be able to improvise a repair with parts from your local hardware store.
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Sun Dolphin Journey 10 Ss Best Fishing Kayak
The Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS is a sit-on-top kayak thats designed for kayak fishing on a budget. It doesnt have the bells and whistles of more expensive boats, but its a great introductory kayak if you want to give fishing a go.
The Journey 10 has two flush-mount rod holders, plus a swivel rod holder in front of the seat. Theres tons of storage, including a portable accessory carrier, which can be removed and towed behind the kayak. This frees up space in the stern for a cooler or backpack.
If you paddle solo, then you shouldnt have any problems getting the Journey 10 in and out of the water. It weighs just 44 pounds a lot less than most fishing kayaks.
Unfortunately, the Journey SS is not a great kayak for tall people and the 250-pound weight capacity may be an issue if you need to carry a lot of gear. Id also recommend adding a padded seat and carrying a set of scupper plugs for comfort.
Choosing A Perception Kayak
You can purchase different types to suit the activity you have in mind, from flat water or slow moving water kayaking to ocean or surf kayaking. You can also adapt your search based on how long you intend to use your kayak each time you take it out.
For example, day kayaks will have minimal space, and as the name would suggest, are better suited to shorter trips. Weekend and multi-day/ expedition kayaks have more space built in so you won’t have to leave any essentials behind.
To keep things simple there are three distinct sizes: small, medium and large, while popular colors include red, orange, purple and blue.
Typically, Perception kayaks fall into three categories sit inside, sit on top or tandem. Choose from single seaters or two-seater tandems that will enable you to have someone else hop on board and share the paddling duties.
Whether you’re looking for something brand new or previously used, you will be sure to find the Perception kayak that best suits your needs. Access is one of Perception’s most popular kayak ranges. These kayaks are ideal for beginners due to their stable yet lightweight mould and enable you to paddle with ease.
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Best Kayak For Tall People Ocean Kayak Scrambler
If youre tall or heavier than average, you may be worried about the stability of a sit-on-top kayak. Some of the most popular sit-on-tops are short, with limited legroom and a low weight capacity.
If you buy the Ocean Kayak Scrambler, you have nothing to worry about. It measures 11 feet 6 inches, which not only gives more room inside, itll also help you track straight when paddling. The 350-pound weight capacity means theres plenty of space for you and your gear.
When it comes to stability, youll struggle to rock this boat. Its as stable as they come.
The Scrambler also has plenty of storage space, making it a great option for touring, camping, or carrying dogs.