So, you’ve caught the kayaking bug and are ready to take your paddling adventures a little further. Touring kayaks are perfect for exploring coastlines, rivers and lakes at your own pace. But now comes the big question: Should you go solo or tandem?
Both naturally come with their own set of perks, quirks and charm. However, there are a few key things to keep in mind that will inform your final decision. Let’s break it all down and help you find the perfect match for your style of touring.
What Is a Touring Kayak Anyway?
Before diving into the solo vs tandem debate, let’s quickly run through what sets a touring kayak apart from other styles. Touring kayaks are longer than your average recreational kayak, which means that they’re built for covering longer distances with better glide and efficiency.
The all-new Prijon Prilite Neptun, for example, has a total length of 5.26m. This length gives it great storage capacity, particularly when compared to recreational or inflatable kayaks that tend to be smaller.
Touring kayaks usually feature dry storage compartments, more streamlined hulls, and added comfort for longer outings. Whether you’re out for a few hours or planning a weekend expedition, they’re purpose-made for comfort, tracking, and speed over longer distances.
The Appeal of Going Solo
There’s something uniquely satisfying about paddling solo. From early morning paddles on a peaceful lake to expeditions along the river, it's hard to compare to the feeling that comes with a solo adventure.
You’ve got full control, the freedom to set your own pace, and the silence of nature all to yourself. With all this in mind, let’s take a look at what makes solo touring kayaks a great choice.
Freedom and Independence
If you’re someone who enjoys doing things your own way, solo kayaking is a dream. You can head out whenever you want, stop for breaks where it suits you and paddle to the rhythm of your own strokes. It’s perfect for early morning paddles, solo fitness sessions, or peaceful weekend getaways.
Easier to Store
One of the biggest perks of a solo kayak is how easy it is to manage off the water. They’re lighter, shorter, and easier to lift onto your roof racks. If you’ve got limited garage space or need to store your kayak in a small shed or flat, a solo option is far more practical.
Skill Building and Confidence
Paddling solo is a fantastic way to develop key kayaking skills like navigation, stroke technique, balance, and decision-making. Of course, you’ll always want to develop these skills in calmer waters and wear a well-fitted PFD at all times.
On solo adventures, you take the role of the captain, the engine, and the navigator in one, which makes for a great learning experience. You’ll also build more confidence on the water, which can open the door to more adventurous trips in the future.
The Joys of Tandem Touring
Now let’s flip it. Tandem touring kayaks offer a shared experience that can’t be matched when you’re on your own. It's really the perfect way to explore the beauty of nature with a friend, your partner, or even a child. Put simply, there's a lot to love about paddling in tandem.
Shared Experience
One of the best things about a tandem kayak is the shared journey. You chat, laugh, take in the views together, and make memories on the water. It’s an excellent way to spend time outdoors, especially if you and your paddling partner are on the same wavelength.
The Scorpio Swordfish Series II Double is a great, affordable entry point to the wonderful world of tandem kayaking. The Swordfish Double is a practical touring kayak for day excursions, fishing, photography, and a day of fun with family or friends. It’s really the perfect tandem kayak for everyone (from beginners all the way to expert paddlers).
The Scorpio Swordfish Series II Double Sea Kayak - Pick Up Yours at PaddleZone
Double the Power
As the saying goes, “many hands make light work”. With two or three paddlers on board, you’ll generally move faster with less effort. If one person gets tired, the other can keep things moving. It’s particularly handy on longer trips or when covering open water, where steady speed makes a difference.
Want your tandem adventure to be smooth and stable? Make sure to check out our recent post on ‘Balancing a Tandem Kayak: Tips for Paddling with a Partner’.
Ideal for Families
Tandem kayaks are great for families with young kids. An adult can take the back seat and do most of the paddling while the little one sits up front, enjoying the ride, learning to paddle, or spotting wildlife. It’s a safe and fun way to introduce kids to kayaking without having them in a kayak of their own.
How Do They Compare?
Let’s put solo and tandem touring kayaks head-to-head across a few key categories.
Transport and Storage
Solo kayaks are easier to handle if you’re on your own. They’re generally lighter, more compact, and often fit better into standard garages or onto smaller cars. Tandems are longer and heavier, so you’ll probably need a second pair of hands to lift and load them. That said, if you’re always paddling with someone, it might be easier to bring one tandem kayak than two solo boats.
Cost
Solo kayaks tend to be less expensive than tandems. If you’re buying just for yourself, this can be a deciding factor. But if you’re paddling regularly with someone else, one tandem kayak might still come out cheaper than buying two separate models. Just remember to stock up on essential accessories like paddles, spray skirts and life jackets for both paddlers.
On Water Performance
Solo touring kayaks may be easier to control for one person (if they’re experienced and strong enough to handle it). They’re a little more nimble, and your movements directly translate to the kayak's direction and speed.
Tandems, on the other hand, need coordination between both paddlers. If you’re not in sync, it might feel like you're fighting the kayak a bit. But once you’re in rhythm, a tandem can be smooth, efficient and heaps of fun.
Versatility
This one goes to solo kayaks. They’re more versatile in terms of use and travel. You can take them out solo or join a group. With a tandem, you're more committed to paddling with someone else. However, some modular kayaks (like those made famous by Point 65 Sweden) allow you to switch between solo and tandem setups, which could be a handy middle ground.
The Point 65 Sweden Mercury GTX Modular Mid Section makes transportation a breeze! Simply take it apart, then assemble and adjust however you want, whenever you want!
More Great Touring Kayak Picks
If you're looking for a quality touring kayak, PaddleZone is the place to be. Here are some of the best options we have in stock right now!
Prijon Piave GFK
This one is a compact, lightweight, and stable double-seater touring kayak suitable for shorter distances. The undisputable Italian build quality is evident and clearly sets this craft aside from cheaper composites originating from elsewhere in the world.
If you’re after lightweight double/tandem kayaks with uncompromised quality, a seriously comfortable seat, and don't mind spending a bit more for these attributes, this is the ideal choice of kayak for you.
Boreal Design Halo 130 Ultralight Kayak
Weighing only 18.6kg, the Halo 130 is easy to handle both in and out of the water. Inspired by the latest in advanced hull design, Boreal Design has crafted a fast, stable kayak that tracks effortlessly and ensures a “dry ride”. The Halo 130 has already gained praise from Outdoors Magazine and even took home the ‘Gear of the Year Award’.
Prijon Seatron GT HTP
This Prijon model is purpose-made for extended tours on the sea, surfing the odd wave, or multi-day trips with luggage. The Seatron GT offers relatively high tipping stability combined with easy manoeuvrability, even for difficult conditions on the coast and on the open sea.
Hurricane USA Sojourn 146
Available in Mango or Slate Blue, Hurricane USA’s Sojourn 146 carves and edges like a much longer kayak, but balances that agility with a 61cm beam for excellent stability the moment you hit the water.
Which One’s Right for You?
At the end of the day, it comes down to how you like to paddle.
If you enjoy your own company, want full control, and don’t mind a bit more physical effort, a solo touring kayak is your ticket to freedom. You’ll appreciate the ease of transport, personal pace, and flexibility.
If you prefer shared adventures, love the idea of teamwork, or want to paddle with family, a tandem touring kayak offers companionship, efficiency, and fun. It’s especially great for making memories with someone special.
Still unsure? Come in and chat to our team at PaddleZone or browse our full range of solo and tandem touring kayaks online. We've got something for everyone, whether you're planning short weekend paddles or full-on multi-day expeditions.
Ready to Create Lifelong Memories? Check Out Our Fantastic Range of Touring Kayaks
From global brands to homegrown favourites, PaddleZone is Australia's one-stop shop for all things kayaking. If you’re after solo or tandem touring kayaks from the world’s best brands, we’ve got you covered. Need safety equipment, paddles, seats, clothing, or storage gear? We’ve got them too!
Happy paddling!
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