Last Updated on January 30, 2025 by Ariana Svenson
The warm weather has finally arrived here in Western Australia and summer is officially just a few weeks away now. Yay! One of our first planned excursions is a trip to an inland lake (dam!) where we’ll swim in the fresh water, do some bushwalking, and laze around on tubes. I’m also taking my brother’s trailer loaded with his kids’ kayaks and my kids’ SUPS (See my recommendations for the Best Inflatable SUPS in Australia here).
When taking the trailer, the associated packing (and tie downs) that’s part and parcel of packing for a few days away with the kids at a lake (dam) is quite daunting. So I did find myself getting distracted, and Googling inflatable kayaks and paddle boards. That’s right, the idea of not taking a trailer and just taking inflatable boards instead was a pretty attractive one. We like the SUP a lot, and it’s the reason we got interested in kayaks too. Though stand-up paddling is a relatively singular experience: unless the kids are using it as a play floatation device, it’s operated by only one person.
Sometimes and in some places, the SUP is wonderful for getting in lots of fresh air and exercise – like when there are tranquil conditions with not a lot of wind and breeze. Kayaks are different. For one thing, they are sturdier. Plus, when you buy a tandem kayak it’s more of a family affair. You can head off on a little expedition together, up a river or around the coast. You can load more stuff onto most kayaks as compared to SUP boards, and you shouldn’t (in theory) get too wet or fall into the water. (Anyone who’s currently learning to use the SUP will totally understand what it is like when you are learning… you get very wet!)
Our back shed is already packed full with the kids’ boogie boards, the SUP and all the rest of it. I am also very much looking forward to starting our long-dreamed-about, around Australia road trip.
As a solo mumma with 3 kids in tow, I am going to have to be minimalist, rather than carrying stuff we don’t use. The idea of having kayaks and SUPs, plus a camper trailer, boogie boards and fishing gear is very overwhelming. It seems to me, then, that I should be planning ahead with these inflatable products. Then we can blow them up as needed, but otherwise they shouldn’t get in the way. Hence my search for the best inflatable kayak! If you also want to find an inflatable canoe in Australia, read on to discover a range of kayak ratings and reviews, what to look for in the best beginner inflatable kayak and much more.
Do Note – Though all of these options offer kayak sales in Australia, some are shipped from the US or UK. So it may take a little longer to get some kayaks.
If you’re in a rush (and who isn’t?) here’s our number one pick as the best inflatable kayak in Australia.
The Advanced Elements is best overall because it’s made for both comfort and speed. It’s set up to seat one or two people, has a generous weight capacity and comes from one of the best brands in the business.
This post may contain affiliate links, from which we would earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. More info in my disclaimer.
Best Inflatable Kayak Australia Comparison Chart
| Name | Seats | Weight in KG | Capacity in KG | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Elements Island Voyage | 1 or 2 | 14.3 | 227 | Top brand, streamlined, front rocker, seats 1 or 2 | Click Here |
| Advanced Elements Elite | 1 or 2 | 23.6 | 249 | Lumbar seats, triple-layered, rib frame tech | Click Here |
| Aquaglide Deschutes | 1 | 8.2 | 136 | Lightweight, streamlined, quick release sea | Click Here |
| Intex Excursion Pro | 1 | 6.4 | 100 | Footrest, triple ply construction, GoPro/phone mount | Click Here |
| Bestway Hydroforce Koracle | 1 | 8.9 | 150 | Cargo cords, oar clasps, paddle & repair kit included | Click Here |
| Aquaglide Chelan | 2 | 17.2 | 272 | Performance design, speedy, child seat included | Click Here |
| Intex Challenger K2 | 2 | 15.4 | 180 | Cargo net, grab lines, paddles & pump included | Click Here |
| Intex Explorer K2 | 2 | 16.8 | 180 | Great value, hi-visibility, streamlined shape | Click Here |
| Driftsun Rover | 2 | 12.7 | 272 | Sleek looks, built to last, rocker profile for smooth ride | Click Here |
| Sevylor Hudson | 3 | 17.7 | 210 | 3 person, extra wide, removable seats | Click Here |
Why Would I Want to Buy an Inflatable Kayak?
Here are three good reasons why you might want to find the best inflatable kayak available in Australia!
Easy to Store and Transport
Going back to the points mentioned above – the best inflatable double kayak, or single one, is ideal because it’s simple to store. It’s also easier to carry than a rigid one.
You can fit an inflatable kayak into the car – without requiring a roof rack. It also takes up less space in your garage or loft (or my garden shed).
Lightweight to Lift and Carry
You (or I) are going to have to lift and carry the kayak at some point. So the fact that the inflatable kayaks for sale are mush lighter than rigid ones is also a bonus.
So are are inflatable kayaks any good in terms of strength? Despite the lighter weight, an inflatable model is surprisingly robust. This is because of the tough technical materials used in their construction.
More Affordable
Though prices vary, the average inflatable fishing kayak or leisure kayak is much more affordable than the average rigid kayak. Making the fun sport of kayaking more accessible to all!
Thinking about getting an inflatable kayak for you kiddos? Perhaps you should also consider a SUP. Check out our Kids’ SUP | Finding the Best Kids’ Stand Up Paddle Board (2022 UPDATE).
Which Inflatable Kayak Should I Buy?
Before deciding which one to buy, you need to think about the type of kayak is best for you. The options are single versus tandem kayaks – and fishing kayaks versus the regular kind. Each inflatable kayak Australia review will also tell you more about the type and how many seats there are.
Single Kayak vs Tandem Kayak
This is simple enough to decide if you’re a single person, but couples and families may have more trouble in deciding. Should you buy a single or a tandem kayak?
Some tandem kayaks can seat two or three people, and often have removable seats. If you’ll be using it together, then it may make sense to buy and carry just one kayak rather than two (or three).
Fishing Kayak vs Standard Kayak
Fishing kayaks can be bigger than regular models, but not always. A fishing kayak will also come with various bells and whistles to make life easier when angling.
They may have more space for storage, a higher seat and spaces for specific pieces of equipment. So they can cost more. For most leisure purposes, the regular kind is sufficient, but there are affordable fishing models to consider too.
Best Inflatable Kayaks in Australia – What to Look For
Capacity
How many people your kayak can seat is probably the first thing to think about. The options listed here can accommodate one, two or three people. Some double tandem kayaks can be converted into a one or two person option, so they’re great if you want to use it both together and individually.
Size
The size of the kayak may affect comfort, how well it moves over the water and of course carrying and storage. You can check and compare the sizes within each review, or in the comparison chart above.
Weight
How heavy your kayak is will affect how easy it is to lift, carry and get down to the water. Some models are more weighty because they’re tougher though, and more weight often increases stability. It’s really a question of your priorities – and perhaps the price.
Strength
In general, you would expect a more expensive inflatable kayak to be stronger. A key feature to look for is a triple layer construction – though this does add to the weight. Never overload your kayak if you don’t want it to burst!
Paddle
Paddles aren’t always included, so do check the actual product listing carefully. If not you’ll have to budget for this on top. A lightweight, aluminum paddle that’s adjustable tends to be the best choice for most kayakers.
Stability
A stable kayak may be more important depending on where you’ll use it. Using an inflatable kayak in Sydney, for example, may mean taking to the ocean, and some of those beaches can have serious wave action! So pick your kayak – and your spot – with care. More weight and width can improve stability.
Speed
Speed may not even be on your radar. But if it is, look for a kayak that’s narrower and shaped more like a canoe. Fins and rockers can also help your kayak to glide through the water more quickly.
Top 10 Inflatable Kayaks in Australia
Advanced Elements Island Voyage Kayak
Best Inflatable Kayaks Overall
- Inflated size: 3405 x 940 mm
- Weight: 14.3 kg
- Capacity: 227 kg
- 1 or 2 person kayak
If you want to get a product from one of the top inflatable kayak brands, then this one from Advanced Elements is among their more affordable options. Like other premium kayaks it has a more generous weight capacity of 227 kilos.
This kayak also has a more sleek, streamlined shape to improve speed, and the bow has a rocker to improve this even further. There are three seating positions here, so you can use it solo or as a pair.
The cabin has been designed for comfort and practicality, with padded backrests, bottle holders and pockets for each seat. A drain plug at the bottom also makes it simpler to clean or drain. This is a stable, speedy kayak sitting in the middle of the price range.
Pros:
- Top brand
- Front rocker
- Streamlined shape
- Can be used by 1 or 2 people
- Comfortable seats with bottle holders
Cons:
- Sent from Amazon US
Click here to check the current price
Advanced Elements Elite Kayak
Best Hard Shell Rival
- Inflated size: 4570 x 815 mm
- Weight: 23.6 kg
- Capacity: 249 kg
- 1 or 2 person kayak
The best inflatable 2 person kayak in Australia for you could be one with a more generous capacity – and this one has that. It also builds on the Island Voyage model detailed above and is even more impressive, but the downside is that it comes with a higher price tag too.
If you’re prepared to pay more, what you get for your money is an extremely puncture resistant outer. One or two people can use it, and you can paddle with the deck open or closed. The seats fold for storage and can be carried in the duffel bag supplied.
This kayak has a triple layer construction and is ready for you to attach a spray skirt if you want to. It’s made to provide the performance offered by a hard shell kayak, but with the convenience of an inflatable.
Pros:
- Lumbar support seats
- Hard shell performance
- Use deck open or closed
- Tough, triple layer materials
- Rib frame technology front and back
Cons:
- Heaviest option
- Sent by Amazon US
Click here to check the current price
Aquaglide Deschutes Kayak
Best Premium Kayak For 1
- Inflated size: 3350 x 910 mm
- Weight: 8.2 kg
- Capacity: 136 kg
- 1 person kayak
Sometimes you get what you pay for and that seems to be the case here! This product gets some of the top inflatable kayak reviews in Australia and you can see from the picture that it looks so much more like a ‘proper’ kayak than cheaper options. The narrow, streamlined shape will clearly cut through the water with ease.
The weight is also very noticeable – it’s a good few kilos lighter than many of the budget kayaks, so it’s simpler to move it around. There are decent moulded handles to grab onto, and it comes with a smart duffel bag for storage and transportation.
Added extras to make this kayak ultra user friendly include adjustable foot rests, a quick release seat and fin, paddle keepers and even a cockpit drain for letting out water. A repair kit is also included.
Pros:
- Ultra lightweight
- Quick release seat
- Duffel bag included
- Adjustable footrests
- Super slick and streamlined
Cons:
- High price
- Ships from Amazon US
Click here to check the current price
Intex Excursion Pro K1 Kayak
Best Intex Kayak
- Inflated size: 3050 x 910 mm
- Weight: 6.4 kg
- Capacity: 100 kg
- 1 person kayak
This budget kayak for one person is the best Intex inflatable kayak in Australia. It costs slightly more than the two Intex products detailed below – and they can each seat two – but you do get a better build for your money.
A lightweight aluminum paddle and a hand pump comes with it, and it has a triple-ply construction for added strength and durability. This protects it from UV rays and abrasions, but also allows for more rigidity to enhance your ride.
A footrest, a couple of detachable skegs, fishing rod holders and a GoPro or mobile phone mount make this kayak super user friendly.
Pros:
- Footrest for comfort
- Triple-ply construction
- Great features for the price
- Lightweight aluminium paddle
- Mobile phone or GoPro mount
Cons:
- Only seats one
- Not built for speed
Click here to check current price
Bestway Hydroforce Koracle Kayak
Best Fishing Kayak
- Inflated size: 2700 x 1000 mm
- Weight: 8.9 kg
- Capacity: 150 kg
- 1 person kayak
According to inflatable fishing kayak reviews, some people prefer this type of design even for general use. As is typical with a fishing kayak, this Bestway product has a higher seat, so you sit on top of it rather than inside.
The rod holders also make this good for fishing, though of course you don’t have to use it for that purpose! There are two pairs of footrests here for people of varying heights, and cargo cords for storage on the front and rear.
If you do enjoy fishing or would prefer this higher seating position, this could be the one to go for. Any list of the top 10 inflatable kayaks wouldn’t be complete without at least one of this type included. It’s also great value for money.
Pros:
- Paddle clasps
- Low cost kayak
- 2 pairs of footrests
- Cargo cords to front and back
- Pump, paddle and repair kit included
Cons:
- Seating position not for everyone
- You may not need rod holders
Click here to check current price
Aquaglide Chelan Kayak
Best Premium Kayak For 2
- Inflated size: 4610 x 915 mm
- Weight: 17.2 kg
- Capacity: 272 kg
- 2 person kayak
No, it’s not cheap. But if you want to buy a kayak once rather than upgrading later, then this is the one to go for when there’s two of you. Five star reviews are a given here and a child seat is even included with the package.
This kayak also has a generous capacity, so it’s far less likely to burst due to overloading. It’s a really sleek looking kayak, and you can see how the shape will allow it to glide effortlessly.
The Chelan by Aquaglide is designed for performance rather than as a budget item. If you don’t mind forking out, this kayak is an investment bit of kit for serious kayakers.
Pros:
- Ultra compact
- Built for speed
- Performance kayak
- Includes a child seat
- Carry bag and repair kit included
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Ships from the US
Click here to check the current price
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak
Best Value for Money
- Inflated size: 3510 x 760 mm
- Weight: 15.4 kg
- Capacity: 180 kg
- 2 person kayak
The Intex Challenger K2 kayak is available in Australia from Amazon AU. This is the first of two Intex products competing as best inflatable kayak with a 2 person capacity. So that’s the difference between them?
They’re a similar price, for starters. This one, the Challenger, is slightly lighter in weight and longer than the Explorer featured below. It is narrower, however, and not as bright in color as the Explorer (and therefore less visible, which may be a factor when choosing a kids’ kayak in Australia).
They’re similar in design, as both the Explorer and the Challenger have grab lines to the front and back plus a cargo net and two seats. Mainly it’s a matter of whether you want your kayak to be wider – and a thus a little more stable – or longer.
Pros:
- Cargo net
- Good value price
- Reliable inflatable brand
- Front and rear grab lines
- Paddles & pump included
Cons:
- Narrower than Explorer
- Meant for beginners
Click here to check the current price
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
Best for Visibility
- Inflated size: 3120 x 910 mm
- Weight: 16.8 kg
- Capacity: 180 kg
- 2 person kayak
If you want to find the best inflatable kayak under $500, then this one costs way less. The Intex Explorer K2 kayak available in Australia is sold by Amazon AU. So you can get it much quicker than one sent from overseas.
Intex is a top inflatable brand, making everything from pool inflatables to hot tubs, boats and more, so the company knows a thing or two about blow-up kit. This kayak has everything you need and nothing you don’t.
It’s low-profile and streamlined to move smoothly across the water, and is highly visible even from a distance. A skeg helps you move where you want to, while the I-beam floor ensures strength. This is great value for beginner kayakers.
Pros:
- Great value
- Skeg included
- Good visibility
- Streamlined design
- Ships within Australia
Cons:
- Pretty basic
- Budget looks
Click here to check the current price
Driftsun Rover Inflatable Kayak
Best Heavy Duty Kayak
- Inflated size: 3840 x 965 mm
- Weight: 12.7 kg
- Capacity: 272 kg
- 2 person kayak
The fact that it’s listed as a white water kayak tells you all you really need to know about this kayak: it’s a heavy duty product. If you’re seeking cheap kayaks in Australia then this probably isn’t one for you, but if you don’t mind splashing out then you’ll get superior strength and performance.
The rocker profile on this one has been designed to let you navigate easily, even through rough water. All the things you need come with it – a smart travel backpack, a pair of removable padded seats, adjustable aluminum paddles and a detachable fin.
Other great features recommending this kayak include adjustable footrests, an action camera mount, ultra tough carry handles and hardware that’s corrosion resistant. If you want a kayak that will last, maybe just buy this one!
Pros:
- Sleek looks
- Made to last
- Heavy duty build
- Action camera mount
- Rocker profile for smooth navigation
Cons:
- Not the cheapest tandem kayak
Click here to check the current price
Sevylor Hudson Inflatable Kayak
Best 3 Person Kayak
- Inflated size: 3740 x 890 mm
- Weight: 17.7 kg
- Capacity: 210 kg
- 3 person kayak
This Sevylor inflatable kayak available in Australia is recommended for a family of three – namely two adults and a child. With a 210 kilo capacity, it’s a triple tandem kayak from one of the biggest brands you can buy.
The spray decks to the front and rear should keep you as dry as possible while using it, and the wide shape improves stability when it’s windy. As the seats can be removed, you can also use this as a double kayak.
For safety and strength this has a tough tarpaulin shell and an I-beam construction. It comes complete with a carry bag, a repair kit, and a manometer to check the pressure.
Pros:
- Tough construction
- Triple tandem kayak
- Extra width adds stability
- Removable seats for use as double
Cons:
- Pump and oars not included
- May be shipped from the UK
Click here to check the current price
Inflatable Kayak FAQs
Is it Worth Buying an Inflatable Kayak?
Is an inflatable kayak worth it? Absolutely. Though we’ve only now got to the point of buying our own, we’ve used my brother’s ones before. They’re easy to set up and great fun to use. If you like spending time on or exploring by water, then using an inflatable kayak in Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne or wherever you live is definitely for you!
When reading inflatable tandem kayak reviews, just think about how much you want to spend and how much space you’ll need – for both people and other items you want to take along with you.
Will an Inflatable Kayak Pop if I Run into a Rock?
We cannot pretend that a kayak is incapable of popping. It can, and it will if it’s overloaded or runs into very sharp rocks. So be careful about your steering and what you take along with you.
That said, inflatable kayaks are made with all this in mind. The durable materials should withstand wind, minor abrasions and other types of stress. If everyone popped their kayak on the first outing, no one would be buying them at all. And that’s definitely not the case!
Can you Repair an Inflatable Kayak?
If you do run into trouble, don’t despair! Many kayaks come with a repair kit so you can patch things up yourself. If not – or you’ve mislaid it – then you can buy these. The vinyl sheets can be used whole, or cut to fit. You’ll also need the glue supplied and to let it dry fully as instructed.
What are the Cons of Inflatable Kayaks?
Inflatable kayaks can vary in terms of capacity. If there are two of you using the kayak and you’re thus close to the limit, then this can restrict your ability to carry other items.
An inflatable kayak can also be harder to control when it’s very windy. For this reason, their offshore use may be restricted to a certain distance limit in your area.
Overall, inflatable kayaks are not as good as rigid ones. But they more than make up for this by being lightweight and easy to store and transport. Which is better – an inflatable, or no kayak because you have no room to store it or are unable to get it to the beach, lake or river?
The Verdict – Inflatable Kayaks Australia
We hope these inflatable kayaks reviews, ratings and tips have helped with your search for the right kayak! Wherever you live, getting out on the water with or without the kids is great fun for everyone and a great way to explore areas that are inaccessible via land.
In general, the more you spend the better kayak you’re going to get. If you’ve already hired (or borrowed) one and love it, then you know that a good one is going to be worth the investment.
We realize that things change all the time, and so it’s really important to us that we provide the most up to date information possible! That’s why we go through our pages annually making sure they are as current as possible. As always, if you notice something that’s not quite right, please let us know in the comments!
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