Kayak Guidance logo

6 Best Kayaks

For Scuba Diving in 2022

Best Options and Reviews

Published November 21, 2021 | Updated April 10, 2022

An inflatable diving kayak might be the right thing if you want to get out on the water but don’t have the storage or transportation space for a diving kayak. If you’re new to scuba diving kayaks, though, there are multiple options. So, you’ll get confused in selecting the best scuba diving kayak. 

I’m sure you have many a question that’s why I’d like to point you in the right way. To that end, I’d like to provide some advice on what you should think about–and where you should start looking for the ideal scuba diving kayaks for you.

6 Best Kayaks for Scuba Diving: Summary

Specifications We're Going to Look Over in These Best Kayaks for Scuba Diving

  • Storage Space and Layout
  • Visibility
  • Ease of Anchoring
  • Weight

1. Malibu Two XL Sit-on-Top Ocean Kayak

10+ Reviews
4.8/5

The Malibu Two XL Kayak by Ocean Kayak is designed for more than one person, a tandem kayak is ideal for enjoying time on the water and as a headquarters or HQ for your next scuba diving mission. They are also faster and more stable than single-person kayaks, allowing you to travel further than you would otherwise. 

We can’t overlook how much joy and friendship maybe had when participating in group activities. Ocean Kayak creates recreational kayaks for professional fishers and diving kayaks for the more daring. 

They started as kayak retailers before switching to production. After examining their clients’ requirements, specific tastes, and geographical demands, they decided to take this step since they believed they could produce better kayaks than what was currently offered.

Pros

Cons

Extra-comfortable cockpit with plush seatbacks and footrests

Plenty of storage possibilities throughout the kayak

Limited lifetime warranty

Simple to transport and carry

There is room for up to two people.

It’s made of a robust, abrasion-resistant, and long-lasting material.

 

The comfort plus seatbacks are available for an additional fee

2. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Kayak for Scuba Diving

3800+ Reviews
4.4/5

If you’re looking for a low-cost inflatable scuba diving kayak that can accommodate two paddlers or one person, the Intex Excursion Pro K2 could be the answer. The Excursion Pro is made of a 3-ply laminated material that is more resistant to abrasions and impacts. 

Of course, the heavier material used in its construction adds to its overall weight, which is a few pounds higher than the other Intex inflatable kayaks at 39 lbs. The air chambers are equipped with high-pressure spring-loaded valves that can withstand the additional pressure required to inflate the diving kayak to a rigid state.

Pros

Cons

It’s simple to inflate and deflate the scuba diving kayaks and seats.

The deflated diving kayak is lightweight and easy to transport and store.

If the footrest is too uncomfortable, you can remove it.

It’s just good for a few fishing trips or some recreational paddling.

There are no paddle holders on the scuba diving kayak.

Punctures and leaks are unavoidable in an inflatable diving kayak.

Recessed integrated rod holders are difficult to use because they point inward.

3. BKC TK181 12.5' Tandem Sit on Top Kayak for Scuba Diving

90+ Reviews
4.4/5

If you want to access those hard-to-reach fishing hot places that a regular fishing boat can’t, you’ll need to invest in a new scuba diving kayak. The BKC UHTK181 is a tandem sit-on-top fishing kayak which also serves for scuba diving purposes as well and has plenty of features that any diver will appreciate. 

Just because you want a tandem kayak doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find one that is reasonably priced and precisely designed to perform and features an angler requires. The UH-TK181 from Brooklyn Kayak Company, for example, is a two-person sit-on-top scuba diving kayak that is nimble, stable, and packed with storage.

Pros

Cons

Stability and control are superb.

There’s enough room for two people in this vehicle.

It has seven-rod holders and ample storage space.

It’s also quite quick and has comfortable seats.

Quite an effective tracking

There is no standing platform included.

Some anglers may want to replace the chairs that come with the kayak with better ones.

Although the craft is very substantial, two individuals may easily carry it.

4. BKC FK184 Solo Sit-on-Top Kayak for Storing Gear and Scuba Diving Equipment

100+ Reviews
4/5

The BKC FK184 9′ Solo Sit-on-Top Dive Kayak is the third-best budget fishing kayak that any angler can acquire and still save a lot of money. This diving kayak is one of the most straightforward to use. 

It is light in weight and will not cause you any problems when transporting it. Regardless, this diving kayak features one of the best designs. It has a sleek design and various features that help it work better.

Pros

Cons

Watertight storage compartments

Solo sit-on-top design

Memory foam seat

Lightweight design

Easy to carry and transport

Not recommended for groups of two or more riders

 

5. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak

22,500+ Reviews
4.5/5

This scuba diving kayak is bright yellow, making it easy to spot on the water. When fully inflated, the kayak measures 10 feet 3 inches long, 3 feet wide, and 1 foot 8 inches tall. It weighs 30.6 pounds. 

Heavy vinyl was used by Intex, which is puncture resistant. This scuba diving kayak’s cockpit is built for comfort and space, and it certainly seems more spacious. The kayak’s nose is tilted, which helps to keep water from splashing over the front passenger. 

Its toughness and stability also add to the user’s safety. The Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak is a fun, functional board that makes paddling a breeze.

Pros

Cons

It can accommodate two average-sized persons (their combined weight should not exceed 400 pounds).

It is inexpensive.

It is compact.

It’s simple to set up.

Transportable

Comfortable

It includes chairs, paddles, a carrying bag, a pump, and patches, among other things.

On the water, it is slow and does not travel as quickly as a standard Kayak.

Risk of popping (very slim chances of happening due to strong material used in the kayak)

Physically inflate or pump, or purchase a separate electric pump.

6. Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak for Beginners

1600+ Reviews
4.3/5

The Sevylor Quikpak K1 is a fantastic beginner scuba diving kayak, and I’m not planning on purchasing another till my current one fails owing to my heavy use. The kayaks for scuba diving can withstand a lot of punishment and not show any signs of wear. 

The pump that comes with the kayak is excellent and quick, and it comes with a variety of tip adapters. It comes with a comfortable seat that is secured to the diving kayak. The oars are fantastic for maneuverability; however, the grips can suffer from questionable damage, and I believe the grips are a little too close together.

Pros

Cons

You can take the scuba diving kayak practically everywhere, and it can fit in a compact car with all of the equipment 

The diving kayak is quite stable on the water, and it has performed admirably in heavy gusts and waves.

On my paddles, the sticky area of the oars has developed a little hole, which is annoying to my hands.

Because of the Sevylor Quikpak K1’s light weight, you’ll need to be quite strong in severe gusts, or else kayaking may not be so pleasant.

The Importance of Kayaking Skills for Scuba Diving

Fundamental skills for scuba diving kayaks are easy to learn. Any establishment that rents diving kayaks will include a 20-minute tutorial that will provide you with enough information to get you started. However, only the fundamentals are employed to improve your Kayaking skills. Some practice is vital before you attain a level of comfort that allows you to operate the diving kayak safely. 

Your kayaking skills must be strong enough to balance any situation you may encounter.  You may encounter currents depending on the dive site, and keep in mind that wind can also affect your ability to paddle successfully. To get to your dive spot, you must paddle the distance, dive, and then paddle back. (115 words)

Conclusion

Anyone looking for the ideal budget for a scuba diving kayak should know that starting with the price isn’t the only sensible step to begin. Instead, think about a few additional factors while selecting the greatest Scuba Diving kayak. 

Apart from that, you should read the user handbook to come up with a better technique to operate your kayak. Scuba diving kayaks are made by a variety of companies. Furthermore, each manufacturer has its own set of design and user guidelines.

Have you enjoyed this article on our top 6 best scuba diving kayaks? Share it with your friends so they may have adventurous kayaking while preparing for that next scuba diving trip.

Jay Schwartz author of Kayak Guidance

About the Author - Jay Schwartz:

Hey there kayak lovers! I’m Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! You know water sports – you know me! My life is all about it. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. 

More to Learn About Kayaks!