Our Choice Recommendation
- KEY FEATURES | 1-person sit on top fishing kayak - 9ft, 42lb, fishing and rec kayak perfect for throw and go...
- MOUNT FOR ACCESSORIES | Includes 4 flush-mount rod holders.
- STORAGE OPTIONS | V-Wave Center Hatch & storage wells in the bow & stern of the kayak.
What is a sit on top watercraft?
Are sit on top boats better than sit-in paddlecrafts?
Which one is the best style for you?
If you’re thinking of trying a SOT boat, chances are you already have some idea of what these choices are. However, if not, a sit-on-top paddlecraft is any style of watercraft designed for the passenger to sit on it, rather than in it.
The opposite style is a sit-in boat, which typically has a recessed seating area and is often fitted with a chair-style seat and seatback.
Sit-on-top watercrafts offer some benefits that sit-in boats don’t, and vice-versa. Here are a few pros of using a sit-on-top paddlecraft:
- These paddlecrafts are easier to mount and dismount, so they’re better for both kids and beginners.
- These watercrafts are often easier to steer and turn.
- These boats tend to have fewer extra features, which again makes them a good choice for beginners who don’t need to be overwhelmed with a lot of additional information when they’re just starting out.
On the other hand, sit-in paddlecrafts have a few benefits to consider, too:
- Sit-in watercrafts are usually sturdier and easier to keep stable, especially when fishing or in rougher waters.
- Sit-in boats tend to have more precision, although not always.
- Sit-in paddlecrafts often feature more storage space and are designed to keep you on the water for longer stretches of time.
It’s totally up to you to decide whether or not a sit-on-top or a sit-in watercraft is the best choice for you. However, if you’re thinking about trying a sit-on-top style boat, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, you’ll find reviews for five of the most popular sit-on-top watercrafts around. These offers all offer their own strengths and weaknesses, so take your time considering them.
Read on to find some helpful sit on top paddlecraft reviews.
Best By Category:
MOST FEATURES: Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Watercraft – It has the most features of the bunch, including four flush mount capped rod holders, two mounting points for Scotty accessories, rear tankwell storage with bungee, dual watertight storage hatches with inserts and built in cup holders.
GREAT VALUE: Elkton Outdoors Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Boat – It is constructed from rotomold injected body to ensure it won’t crack or puncture and comes fully outfitted with two paddles, two seats, rod holders and bungee cords.
BEST FOR BEGINNERS: Vibe Boats Skipjack 90 Paddlecraft – It is lightweight at 42lbs and includes 4 flush-mount rod holders as well as storage wells in the bow & stern of the watercraft. The built-in ergonomic backrest and cushion provide comfort for beginners.
Option #1. Vibe Paddlecrafts Skipjack 90 Boat
The Vibe Watercrafts Skipjack 90 Paddlecraft is the perfect choice for those looking for a compact, portable and all-adventure recreation and fishing watercraft. This boat is portable and fits in the back of most SUVs or can be car-topped at just 9 feet long and 42 pounds. It is intended to offer comfort, convenience, and a wealth of fantastic features at a reasonable price.
With a streamlined hull design that guarantees quick and agile tracking through a variety of waters and conditions, this paddlecraft is intended for stability. It is made from a single piece of resilient, leak-proof polyethylene that has buoyancy built in for enhanced safety. A backrest and cushion, four quick-reach fishing rod holders, adjustable foot bracing, a convenient cup holder, and four molded-in comfort grip handles for easy transport all contribute to the comfort of the chair. In addition, the Skipjack 90 boasts a 300-pound load capacity, accessories for a fish finder mount or rectangular base, paddle parks and an easy-access paddle rest, and waterproof cargo ports for front and rear storage.
The Skipjack 90 has a lot of fantastic features that make it a great option for fishing expeditions or other leisure activities, but it also has certain drawbacks that should be taken into account. For instance, because there is only enough for one person to sit in the boat, it might not be the greatest choice if you want to take a friend out on the water with you. Also, even though it has six scupper holes (plugs provided), they might not be sufficient to prevent water from entering the boat in heavy seas or when paddling through waves.
The Vibe Boats Skipjack 90 Watercraft nonetheless has a lot of advantages over its downsides that make it worthwhile to take into consideration. Its lightweight design makes it simple to handle by yourself, and its stability guarantees easy tracking across many sorts of seas. Also, it has a V-Wave center hatch and storage wells in the boat’s bow and stern, so you can bring all of your gear along without worrying. Also, the cushioned chairs and built-in ergonomic backrests make it comfy enough for all-day pleasure! This paddlecraft has everything you need, whether you’re searching for a wonderful way to explore rivers and lakes or simply want something tiny and portable for throw-and-go fishing adventures.
Pros:
- Streamlined hull design for quick and agile tracking
- Made from single piece of resilient, leak-proof polyethylene with built-in buoyancy
- Backrest and cushion, four quick-reach fishing rod holders, adjustable foot bracing, cup holder, and four molded-in comfort grip handles for easy transport
Cons:
- Only enough room for one person
- Six scupper holes may not be sufficient to prevent water from entering the boat in heavy seas or when paddling through waves
Option #2. Malibu Two Tandem Ocean Watercraft
The Malibu Two Tandem Ocean Boat is the ideal option for a budget-friendly family trip. It may be used for solo, tandem, or tandem paddling with a child or pet thanks to its three seating options. Paddlers who are situated in the center may settle in and brace their feet comfortably thanks to the Comfort Plus chairs’ four-way adjustment and innovative overlapping foot wells. The paddlecraft’s open, sit-on-top hull, which has two molded-in handles and a skid plate, makes it simple to get on and off. 12 feet long and 34 inches wide; maximum weight capacity of 425 pounds. guaranty for the hull for all time.
For those searching for an inexpensive way to enjoy the sun and surf with friends or family, this watercraft is fantastic. It has two Comfort Plus seats with four-way adjustment for an unique fit and patented overlapping foot wells that make it easy for paddlers to sit in the center of the boat. The boat’s open, sit-on-top body makes it simple to board and exit, and its molded-in grips and skid plate make moving it about easier. This paddlecraft, which has a maximum weight capacity of 425 pounds and measures 12 feet by 34 inches, will have plenty of room for all your activities.
Although this watercraft has several qualities that make it excellent for recreational use, there are a few drawbacks to be aware of. For instance, since there are no hatches, the amount of storage space may be constrained depending on the amount of equipment you need to bring. The weight of this boat has also caused some customers to experience trouble loading, lifting, and putting it onto their car (57 pounds).
The Ocean Paddlecraft Malibu Two Tandem Watercraft still has a lot of advantages that make it a fantastic option for recreational use despite these possible drawbacks. It is extremely stable in stormy coastal seas, making it safe enough for even inexperienced paddlers. With its movable seats and foot wells, it also offers tremendous comfort, making it ideal for extended days spent on the water. Also, the lifetime warranty on the hull of this boat offers buyers additional assurance. Overall, if you’re searching for a cheap way to spend time with friends and family enjoying the sun and waves, this boat is a great option!
Pros:
- Three seating options for solo, tandem, or tandem paddling with a child or pet
- Comfort Plus chairs with four-way adjustment and overlapping foot wells
- Open, sit-on-top hull with two molded-in handles and skid plate
Cons:
- Limited storage space due to no hatches
- Heavy weight (57 pounds) may make loading and lifting difficult
Option #3. Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Paddlecraft
For fishing, touring, or family fun, the Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Watercraft is the ideal option. This 12-foot two-person tandem boat can hold two paddlers plus a center seat for a child or solo paddling and has a 500-pound weight capacity. For unrivaled strength and longevity, the hull is made from a single piece of UV-resistant high density polyethylene that has been rotomolded.
Four flush mount capped rod holders, two mounting points for Scotty attachments, a rear tankwell storage compartment with a bungee cord, two waterproof storage hatches with inserts, and built-in cup holders are all included with this paddlecraft’s purchase. Also, it has two paddle park holders to keep paddles safe when not in use, four fixed carry handles for simple transporting, and a molded center cockpit seat. The kit also includes (2) anodized aluminum performance watercraft paddles with ergonomic handles, (2) adjustable EVA padded seats with high back supports, and (8) scupper plugs for self-bailing ports.
While this boat has many wonderful characteristics that make it ideal for outdoor leisure like fishing or family outings, there are also some drawbacks to take into account. For instance, the paddlecraft is tough to move by yourself because it weighs 72 lbs, which is quite a bit. Also, if you don’t have a spare paddle on hand, the paddle may be damaged from shipment. Last but not least, it could be challenging to get back into position without help from another person if the rope handle pulls through the handle.
Despite these possible drawbacks, this watercraft still has a lot of benefits that make it worthwhile to take into consideration. Its robust and durable construction guarantees that it will hold up to many adventures, and its fully equipped features offer convenience and comfort on your travels. Also, its huge load capacity enables you to travel with more people or luggage without sacrificing stability or performance on the water. The Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Boat is likely to satisfy your needs, whether you’re searching for a pleasant day trip with friends or family or an exciting solo fishing adventure.
Pros:
- Single piece UV-resistant high density polyethylene hull for unrivaled strength and longevity
- Four flush mount capped rod holders, two mounting points for Scotty attachments, a rear tankwell storage compartment with a bungee cord, two waterproof storage hatches with inserts, and built-in cup holders included
- Two paddle park holders to keep paddles safe when not in use, four fixed carry handles for simple transporting, and a molded center cockpit seat
- Includes (2) anodized aluminum performance paddlecraft paddles with ergonomic handles, (2) adjustable EVA padded seats with high back supports, and (8) scupper plugs for self-bailing ports
Cons:
- 72 lbs weight makes it tough to move by yourself
- Paddle may be damaged from shipment if no spare is on hand
- Could be challenging to get back into position without help from another person if the rope handle pulls through the handle
Option #4. Elkton Outdoors Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Watercraft
Anyone wishing to explore lakes, rivers, and the ocean should choose the Elkton Outdoors Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Boat . This paddlecraft’s body was rotomolded and then injected, so it will never break or puncture. It’s big enough for two persons and all their gear at 12.2 feet long and 3 feet broad. Also, the watercraft comes with two carry handles, two paddles, two seats, rod holders, and bungee cords so you can get out on the lake right away.
With adjustable rod holders that enable a diverse fishing experience regardless of the circumstances, this boat was made with fisherman in mind. Also, there are two gear storage sections at each end of the paddlecraft so you can carry all your fishing gear with you without having to clog up your boat, as well as airtight storage containers to keep your belongings secure while you’re out on the water. You can keep your catch cool or carry your favorite beverage with you on the platform in the middle of the watercraft that is designed to accommodate coolers and ice chests.
Although this boat has many wonderful characteristics, there are a few drawbacks to take into account. One is that the handle screws are prone to coming loose, so check them before getting in the water. Additionally, this product is quite heavy – estimated at 75-100 lbs – which may make it difficult to transport if you don’t have access to a truck or trailer. Finally, several customers have complained that after just a few hours of paddling, their airtight container has leaked.
This paddlecraft still has a lot to offer fisherman seeking for a fun day on the lake despite these possible downsides. It’s ideal for carrying all of your fishing gear along without worrying about overcrowding or breaking any of the items inside because to its sturdy build and plenty of storage space. Also, the adjustable rod holders make it simple to change your configuration based on the weather or the sort of fish you’re after! And don’t forget about those cozy chairs and cup holders; they’ll make sure that even when conditions are challenging on the lake or river, you can still unwind and have fun.
Pros:
- Rotomolded and injected body that won’t break or puncture
- 12.2 feet long and 3 feet broad, big enough for two persons and all their gear
- Comes with two carry handles, two paddles, two seats, rod holders, and bungee cords
- Adjustable rod holders for a diverse fishing experience
- Two gear storage sections at each end of the watercraft
- Airtight storage containers to keep belongings secure
- Platform in the middle of the boat designed to accommodate coolers and ice chests
- Cozy chairs and cup holders for comfort while fishing
Cons:
- Handle screws are prone to coming loose
- Airtight container may leak after a few hours of paddling
Option #5. Bonafide RS117 Sit on Top Fishing Paddlecraft
Any angler wishing to advance their fishing skills should consider the Bonafide RS117 Sit on Top Fishing Watercraft . The features of this boat were created with the serious fisherman in mind. Its 77-pound item weight makes it simple to handle and load into your car. When you put the paddlecraft in the bed of your pickup truck, the flat bottom design helps prevent rolling, and its hulking form makes it exceptionally solid when standing up to fish. While it tracks well and paddles fairly, it might drift somewhat in wind or current when you stop paddling.
The Bonafide RS117 also offers a ton of customization possibilities, so you can make sure your watercraft is made to meet your specific requirements. Yak Attack has a number of accessories that can help this boat perform better, such as a rudder and flex wings that aid with stability and tracking. There are numerous accessories available as well, which will enhance your enjoyment of fishing.
This paddlecraft’s potential for weight distribution sensitivity when laden with gear is a drawback. This implies that if your gear isn’t distributed evenly throughout the boat, it could not track or paddle as well as you’d like. However, this problem may be quickly fixed by utilizing Yak Attack’s add-ons or by simply being careful when putting your gear on your boat.
The Bonafide RS117 Sit on Top Fishing Watercraft is a great option for any fisherman looking for a dependable and adaptable fishing craft despite this tiny flaw. Although yet offering plenty of stability while standing up to fish, its lightweight construction makes it simple to transport. Also, you may customize it exactly as you want to make the most of every boating excursion thanks to its adaptability!
Pros:
- 77-pound item weight makes it easy to handle and load into car
- Flat bottom design prevents rolling in pickup truck bed
- Numerous customization possibilities
Cons:
- May drift somewhat in wind or current when not paddling
- Weight distribution sensitivity when laden with gear
Conclusion
Did you find the best sit on top boat for your needs? There are a lot of different options out there, and although many of them offer the same basic features, there’s still a lot of variety overall within the sit-on-top paddlecraft market. If you’re thinking of trying this type of watercraft, you can’t go wrong with any of these options from the list above.
When picking a boat sit on top styles are some of the most popular choices. But how can you know whether or not this is really the best choice for you? Here are a few situations in which a sit-on-top paddlecraft may be the right kind for your needs:
- If you’re a beginner or you are teaching a beginner, including children, then a sit-on-top watercraft is a good choice.
- If you’re trying to condition yourself to spend more time on the water before you splurge on a more sophisticated boat, sit-on-top is the way to go.
- If you only go out every now and then and want something purely for recreation, sit-on-top paddlecrafts can help.
- If you are an experienced paddler but you want something lightweight and easy to transport for quick trips with less experienced family or friends, you may want to bring home a sit-on-top paddlecraft as well.
Whether you choose one of these watercrafts or not, it’s important to understand the differences (and similarities!) between the two styles. Educating yourself on kayaking basics can go a long way toward helping you choose the right fit the first time, so you can get out on the water and start doing what you love sooner rather than later.
5 Essential Tips for Sit-On-Top Kayaking
- Always wear a life jacket when boating, even if you are an experienced paddler.
- Check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Be aware of any potential storms or high winds that could make your trip more difficult.
- Bring plenty of snacks and water to stay hydrated and energized throughout your journey.
- Be sure to check the condition of your boat before each use. Make sure all straps and buckles are secure, and that there are no cracks or other damage.
- If you’re new to sit-on-top kayaking, consider taking a lesson from a certified instructor to learn proper technique and safety protocols.
ALSO: Consider bringing along a friend or family member for extra support and safety!
Additional Helpful Info For Readers
These trails are a great way to get some exercise and see more of the outdoors. They offer a unique way to be close to nature while still being able to move around quickly and easily. Because they are open, these tables are very stable and easy to move in both calm and choppy water. They also have a lot of room for all your gear, which makes them great for long trips or camping trips that last more than one night. Also, they are light and easy to move, so you can take them anywhere without having to worry about carrying heavy equipment. These tables are perfect for people who want a fun adventure without giving up safety or comfort.
Usage Ideas: What Are They Effective for?
These paddlecrafts may be used in three ways. The first is for recreational purposes. Their open form makes them simple to enter and exit, and their steadiness makes them ideal for novices or those who like to take things slowly. Second, they're fantastic for fishing. The open design allows you to readily reach your gear, and the stability makes casting and reeling in your catch simpler. Finally, they can be utilized for traveling. The open design lets you to maneuver freely, while the stability provides peace of mind when negotiating tumultuous waters. With these advantages combined, these tables are an excellent choice for anybody searching for an all-around watercraft capable of a wide range of activities.
The Disadvantages: What To Expect
Even though there are many good things about these options, there are also some bad things to think about. First, because they are big and don't have rudders or skegs, they can be hard to move around in tight places. This can make it hard for paddlers who aren't used to it to get around rocks or other boats. Second, they tend to be heavier than regular watercrafts, which makes them harder to move and get off the shore. There are some practical ways to deal with these problems, which is good news. Getting a paddle with a shaft that can be adjusted to different lengths, for example, can help you move around in tight spaces by letting you change the length of your stroke to fit the situation. Also, if you buy a cart made just for moving these things, it will be much easier to move them from one place to another without having to lift them by hand.
What Guidelines Should Be Used To Evaluate Them?
The most significant quantitative parameters for assessing these paddling devices are stability, speed, maneuverability, storage capacity, and comfort. The capacity of the boat to stay upright in turbulent waters or when paddling against strong currents determines its stability. The speed of a paddlecraft is determined by how swiftly it can go through the water with a single stroke of the paddle. The ease with which it can turn and negotiate tight places determines its maneuverability. Storage capacity is determined by how much equipment and supplies it can hold without sacrificing performance. Finally, comfort is determined by how pleasant it is to sit for lengthy periods of time. All of these elements should be considered while deciding which sit-on-top watercraft is ideal for you.
Firsthand Experience: What to Expect
They are a great way to see more of the water. They are stable and easy to move around, so paddlers of all skill levels can use them for fun. The open design makes it easy to get in and out of the boat and gives you a lot of space for gear or even a pet. Because their centers of gravity are low, these boats are very stable in calm water, but they can be hard to control when the water is choppy. To get the most out of your time in a sit-on-top paddlecraft, you should learn how to paddle properly and use the right safety gear, like life jackets and leashes. Also, make sure you have enough space to store any things you might need on your trip. With a little practice and planning, these paddlecrafts can give you hours of fun and adventure.
In general, here's how to use these types of watercrafts: First, make sure you have everything you need to stay safe, like a life jacket and a whistle. Next, make sure the foot pegs and seat are the right size for your body. Third, before you get in, make sure that all of the straps and buckles are tight. Fourth, move forward in the water with the help of a paddle. Fifth, practice the right way to paddle so that you can move quickly through the water. Lastly, have fun out on the water! Using a sit-on-top watercraft for a fun and safe time on the water is easy if you remember these simple steps.
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