Best Sit On Top Kayaks of 2023

Here are the 10 best Sit on Top Kayaks for 2023 as paddled, tested, and reviewed by the largest paddlesports community out there!

SOTs and their wide, open cockpits make for the most stable and comfortable kayaks you'll find. Not only is there plenty of room for you to sit and move around, they also come with great storage options with hatches and bungees.

When a 17-year-old paddleboarder was swept out to sea, his survival depended on his cell phone and the voice on the other end of the line.


Best Sit On Top Kayaks of 2023

  1. Sea Ghost 130 by Vibe Kayaks, LLC
  2. Caribbean 12 by Eddyline Kayaks
  3. Wahoo 12.5 by Kaku Kayak
  4. Caribbean 14 by Eddyline Kayaks
  5. Tarpon 105 by Wilderness Systems
  6. Mirage® Outback by Hobie
  7. Topwater 120 by Old Town Canoe and Kayak
  8. Ascend FS12T by Ascend
  9. Scupper 14 by Swell Watercraft
  10. Tribe 9.5 by Perception

1. Sea Ghost 130

13'
Length
33"
Width (in)
75
Weight (lb)
$1,299.99
MSRP

VENTURE FURTHER
Venture further – without compromise – on any water with the Sea Ghost 130. This is the all-expeditions kayak that shrugs off whatever Mother Nature or Poseidon throws at it. Smooth, agile, stable and relentlessly tough, this is the speedy titan that all fish fear – with the payload to take every bit of essential gear, and the attitude to take on any ocean, lake, river or whatever.

With the 130, speed, storage and stability have all been optimized across the range of water types and conditions, so you can dial in the performance for any length adventure. Superior stability is there whenever you need it, whether standing or seated, to ensure you can bring in any sea monster you hook. With the Sea Ghost, you've an unrivaled power of choice, customization and comfort poured into a premium kayak.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • Comfort
  • Dual position Vibe Hero seat
  • 4 Vibe Phantom Grip carrying handles
  • Built-in cup holder
  • Comfortable, adjustable foot braces
  • Pre-installed toe controlled rudder system
  • Gear Mounting =
  • 2 Flush mount fishing rod holders
  • 4 Integrated, top-loading gear tracks
  • Fishfinder transducer port with mounting points and protective lid
  • Fast access bow paddle park
  • 2 Side bungee paddle parks
  • Cargo =
  • 8" sealed V-Wave deck plate with waterproof cargo bag insert
  • Large sealed V-Wave bow hatch with waterproof cargo bag insert
  • Rear cargo storage area with bungee tie down
  • 2 tackle tray holders: Fits PLANO™ 3600 tackle tray
  • Vibe Versa Console featuring:
  • Watertight seal
  • Hinged access
  • Dual mini hatches with cargo bags
  • Magnetic gear catch
  • Cup holder
  • 2 top-loading gear tracks
  • Construction =
  • Rotomolded single piece polyethylene
  • 10 scupper holes (plugs included)
  • Replaceable skid plate

Sea Ghost 130 Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
(46 Consumer Reviews)

I bought a Sea Ghost 130 in…

I bought a Sea Ghost 130 in 2016. Great yak!!! Back then it was only $799.

Outstanding fishing kayak.…

Outstanding fishing kayak. Very stable. Lots of extras for the price. Customer service is great as I lost a screw and plastic spacer from the seat and they got me the replace… read full review

The first Kayak I have been…

The first Kayak I have been on the water in for at least 45 years. To say I was a little nervous is an understatement. This kayak has been amazing for the past 6 months. Stab… read full review

2. Caribbean 12

12'
Length
30"
Width (in)
45
Weight (lb)
$1,749
MSRP

Highly stable and lightweight, the Caribbean 12 has an efficient hull design that provides exceptional tracking. The comfortable Cloud 10 seat sits high for comfort and visibility. You might also check out the Caribbean 12FS which features a removable frame seat –equally comfortable while paddling and as your camp chair. The Caribbean 12 includes a large front hatch, the center day hatch and rear hatch give easy access to most of the interior space. The cockpit features adjustable foot braces, handy gear bucket, and and an abundance of mounting surfaces.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • Optional installed rudder
  • Footwell pads
  • Front hatch liner
  • Stern tankwell cover

Caribbean 12 Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
(26 Consumer Reviews)

My first and best kayak…

My first and best kayak EVER! I have had a Caribean 12 by EddyLine for 3 years; have tanken it to Arizona, Georgia & Florida.... rivers, lakes, canyons & the sea and can not… read full review

This is a great kayak! Very…

This is a great kayak! Very stable, tracks well, easy to manage at 45 pounds. The quality of these is unsurpassed.

I LOVE my Carribean 12 kayak.…

I LOVE my Carribean 12 kayak. I got mine this summer. I traded my sea kayak for this one and I am extremely please. Not only it looks great, it is light, very comfortable, ro… read full review

3. Wahoo 12.5

12' 5"
Length
33"
Width (in)
74
Weight (lb)
$1,099
MSRP

The new Wahoo boasts a 12.5' long by 33" wide incredibly stable design. With a roomy open cockpit design, including adjustable foot pegs and aluminum top load gear tracks, you’ll have full control guide this highly versatile yak to your local fishing hole. The lightweight aluminum frame seat will keep you comfortable while you fish and the the rear tie down system will keep your gear secure for that "Big One!" The new Wahoo is rudder and micro power pole ready (not included), so feel free to customize after purchase.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Wahoo 12.5 Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars
(19 Consumer Reviews)

I'm a pretty big guy 6'1"…

I'm a pretty big guy 6'1" 280 lbs so I narrowed my kayak search to just a few brands that had the compacity for me. My previous kayak was used and was bought without any prev… read full review

I have the 12.5 took the…

I have the 12.5 took the kayak out for first time and when we got to the water we were having 20 mile per hour winds so water was not choppy but still got on the kayak and we… read full review

The Kaku Wahoo 12.5 is as…

The Kaku Wahoo 12.5 is as good as all the reviews I have read on it. My Wahoo 12.5 is as stable as any SOT I have had and test paddled. I tested many of the more hyped bran… read full review

4. Caribbean 14

14'
Length
29"
Width (in)
50
Weight (lb)
$1,949
MSRP

Highly stable and lightweight, the Caribbean 14 has an efficient hull design that provides exceptional tracking. The comfortable Cloud 10 seat sits high for comfort and visibility. The large front hatch, the center day hatch and rear hatch give easy access to most of the interior space. The cockpit features adjustable foot braces, handy gear bucket, and and an abundance of mounting surfaces.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • Optional installed rudder
  • Footwell pads
  • Front hatch liner

Caribbean 14 Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
(13 Consumer Reviews)

I have 2 14ft SOT kayaks.…

I have 2 14ft SOT kayaks. The Eddyline is by far my favorite, primarily due to superior construction and a much better seat. I bought a silver/silver version in summer 2019. … read full review

I picked this kayak up at REI…

I picked this kayak up at REI in Troy, MI, August 8, and have paddled it 30 days since then, over 130 miles in local lakes. I’ve been very happy with my purchase. I’m nearly … read full review

I absolutely love this kayak.…

I absolutely love this kayak. I specifically bought this boat because it is light enough to portage in the BWCA with out any problems and it is easily set up to fish out of. … read full review

5. Tarpon 105

10' 6"
Length
32"
Width (in)
55
Weight (lb)
$1,079
MSRP

Formerly known as the Tarpon 100, the new Tarpon 105 is the same sit-on-top legend but revitalized and refined. Retaining everything paddlers love from the celebrated original with improved comfort, stability, speed and paddler interface, the new Tarpon is easily the most versatile boat in the Wilderness Systems lineup that is equally at home on rivers, lakes or oceans. Every detail is carefully crafted and executed flawlessly to bring you boundless paddling perfection.

  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • The premiere sit-on-top kayak is now even better and more comfortable
  • Fast, efficient and straight tracking
  • Excellent stability - great initial stability and solid secondary stability when the boat is leaned on edge
  • Dog-friendly - bring Fido along for the ride
  • The most comfortable and adjustable Phase 3® AirPro seating system featurs CoolTouch so your seat stays cool
  • Large rear storage well for crates, coolers, fishing equipment, scuba tanks & camping gear
  • Front storage hatch offers dry storage
  • Mesh cover for rear storage area to secure items - can be rolled back
  • Sectioned storage tray to organize smaller items like sunscreen, fishing lures and snacks
  • User-friendly paddler interface - new features including a water bottle strap and dry box are all within easy reach
  • MagnaTec magnetic water bottle strap system
  • DryTec removable dry box is perfect for storing wallets, phones, keys and other valuables
  • SlideTrax™ accessory rails so you can customize your kayak for fishing, filming or adding other accessories
  • Quick park paddle holder
  • Rigid carry handles for easy transport

Tarpon 105 Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
(94 Consumer Reviews)

I LOVE this kayak. It cuts…

I LOVE this kayak. It cuts thru the water like a breeze, has plenty of so far waterproof storage, is really stable and has a comfortable seat. I love having adjustable footpe… read full review

Has the most comfortable seat…

Has the most comfortable seat and storage lids are great at sealing out water and easy to open and close. Love this kayak

had a go sea kayak from new…

had a go sea kayak from new and sold it within two days. then bought tarpon 100 and its like mini to rolls royce

6. Mirage® Outback

by Hobie
12' 9"
Length
34"
Width (in)
85
Weight (lb)
$3,449
MSRP

This fully-loaded fishing machine is built for every conceivable fishing expedition, whether you’re prowling the ocean for monster gamefish or stalking bass in your favorite freshwater fishing hole. Hobie has advanced the sport of kayak fishing with Kick-Up Fins that automatically retract upon impact. The extra-wide standing deck offers an improved casting platform and convenient vantage point for sight fishing, allowing for superior vision from above while the revolutionary Guardian Transducer Shield gives you multidimensional vision below. The adjustable Vantage CTW seat provides 1.5" of extra width and lumbar support for unmatched room and comfort for long days on the water. The Hobie H-Rail with integrated patented RAM® Hand-Track™ and numerous high-capacity storage compartments deliver the ultimate customization and organization in accessory mounting, ensuring that all of your gear is at your fingertips. Powered by the MirageDrive 180 with Kick-Up Turbo Fins, this fine-tuned angling vessel is highly versatile, fast, quiet, and exceedingly nimble. Featuring our Kick-Up Rudder system with dual steering capabilities, combating drift and navigating tight water has never been easier. ($3,599 USD MSRP for Camo)

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Mirage® Outback Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
(46 Consumer Reviews)

I have been kayak fishing…

I have been kayak fishing for years and resisted trying out pedal drive kayaks until about a month ago. My husband and I hired a kayak fishing guide who used the Hobie Outbac… read full review

Outstanding design and…

Outstanding design and attention to deal. Well appointed with tie-on rails and hatches for a full day of fishing. Improved propeller fin design sold me on this kayak.

Sturdy hull. Will float if…

Sturdy hull. Will float if flipped. Several hatches. Outback is 34" wide, stable but slow. 16' Adventure is 29" wide & fast; 13'11" Revolution is 30" wide & medium-fast. Husb… read full review

7. Topwater 120

12'
Length
33.5"
Width (in)
82
Weight (lb)
$1,299.99
MSRP

The Topwater 120 offers large fishing kayak performance, in a compact, nimble package. A marriage of stability and performance, the Topwater's ultra-stable DoubleU™ Hull, quietly glides through any water condition while providing a stable, comfortable stand-up fishing platform. Equipped with thoughtful on-board tackle and rod management and a revolutionary universal transducer mount, even the saltiest of anglers will be impressed by the overall fishability of the new Topwater series. Old Town sacrificed nothing, delivering a series of innovative fishing kayaks that are easy to maneuver and even easier to transport all while boasting an impressive maximum capacity.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Additional Attributes

  • Ultra-stable DoubleU™ Hull Design offers unmatched stability and precision handling in a compact easy-to-transport size.
  • Revolutionary universal transducer mounting system makes mounting your favorite fish finder easier than ever before
  • Incredibly comfortable and breathable ElementAir™ seat with high/low positioning
  • An oversized stern tank well coupled with impressive hull capacity, provides one of the roomiest fishing kayaks on the market
  • Stay organized and easily access gear with three rod holders (one forward-facing) and thoughtfully-placed onboard rod and tackle storage
  • EVA foam deck pads for traction and all-day stand-up fishing comfort
  • Some Topwaters will contain updated and enhanced features found on the new Sportsman line that have not been photographed yet.

Topwater 120 Reviews

5 out of 5 stars
(2 Consumer Reviews)

great stability even in fast…

great stability even in fast moving water. With a flat bottom you can also get through low water spots with little effort.

I originally purchased the…

I originally purchased the kayak because it seemed that the kayak was designed with the fisherman in mind. It was advertised as being extremely stable, stocked with tools ge… read full review

8. Ascend FS12T

by Ascend

This product is currently unavailable. Check out the Ascend 12T for the best alternative.

Redesigned with updated focuses bow to stern, the Ascend® FS12T Sit-on-Top Kayak lets thrill-seekers push themselves, and their gear, further than ever. A modified dashboard, part of the new midship dash design, improves the overall layout for enhanced comfort while sitting or standing; the weathertight storage hatch now appears midship on a redesigned landing. The new layout improves rigidity through the entire vessel, allowing far better standing capability for enhanced paddling or fishing. The custom-crafted tunnel hull design increases stability for easier handling in challenging waters and smoother entry/exit at shores. A deluxe, removable seating system lets you take the padded seat off your Ascend kayak and right into camp. The large, molded stern tankwell features integrated D-rings designed to secure a full-size cooler—perfect for bringing your favorite refreshment on a memorable trip. A weathertight storage hatch in the updated midship dash keeps your vitals protected. Flush-mount paddle holders, adjustable foot braces, scupper drains, cutting-edge gaskets and fasteners, and performance-grip handles bow and stern set the Ascend FS12T Sit-on-Top Kayak apart. Accessory rails allow for attaching extra gear for even more storage versatility. Dimensions: 12'L x 31"W. Weight with seat: 77 lbs. Maximum Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.

  • View all products from Ascend

Ascend FS12T Reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
(15 Consumer Reviews)

People rating this Kayak…

People rating this Kayak unstable and unable to stand, that'a on Them and Their own balance issues. I can stand and literally jump side to side on the edges on this kayal ful… read full review

Well, I bought this kayak to…

Well, I bought this kayak to fish extremely remote lakes and I didn't buy it to stand up in. Caught a ton of fish and for the money, it fishes great. Tracks good in the water… read full review

I have a 2017/2018 model,…

I have a 2017/2018 model, very few cons with this particular kayak. Stability for me was a huge factor in purchasing a fishing kayak, I was apprehensive to purchase this one… read full review

9. Scupper 14

14' 1"
Length
25.5"
Width (in)
64
Weight (lb)
$1,149
MSRP

The world’s first sit-on-top with foot wells below waterline delivers an amazing combination of speed, comfort, safety and stability that makes long paddling trips easy. You get a smooth stroke that never hits your knees. Glide like you’ve never felt before. You get more miles, and longer days on the water. Featuring our patented “Scupper Valve” that drains the cockpit if you take water on. Got waves? The Scupper shreds them. No matter what your adventure-fishing, diving, touring, surfing, sailing or camping-the Scupper abides.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult, Larger Adult
  • Skill Level: Intermediate

Scupper 14 Reviews

5 out of 5 stars
(31 Consumer Reviews)

I have owned numerous…

I have owned numerous sit-on-tops and a couple sit inside boats. This is my favorite. I am 6-3 and 240 pounds and I paddle in the lakes and rivers of NH and VT and do a coupl… read full review

Love this kayak. It's a true…

Love this kayak. It's a true bridge between sea kayak and a sot. Way faster than any other paddle sot I've owned or paddled. Very easy to keep a decent speed even with minima… read full review

Similarly to another…

Similarly to another reviewer, I bought the Scupper 14 after searching the internet for the "fastest sit-on-top kayak" and ruling out those ultra-long fiberglass boats I some… read full review

10. Tribe 9.5

9' 5"
Length
31.25"
Width (in)
46
Weight (lb)
$629
MSRP

The perfect sit-on-top for price-conscious paddlers who love the active lifestyle.

The Tribe 9.5 is an affordable, easy-going, great looking sit-on-top that performs terrifically in light surf, but is also speedy and maneuverable on flat water and lazy rivers. With side handles built-in, plus additional bow and stern handles, carrying and car topping is a breeze.

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner

Additional Attributes

  • Comfort Seating System (CSS)
  • High Back Sit-on-top Seat
  • Molded-In Foot Wells
  • 6" Deck Plate w/Catbag
  • Tankwell with Bungee
  • Molded-In Side Handles
  • Soft Touch Handles
  • Skid Plate
  • Hatch Centerpoint Marked
  • Stackable
  • Self-Bailing Scupper Holes

Tribe 9.5 Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
(26 Consumer Reviews)

we have had these for over 7…

we have had these for over 7 years and other than a few scratches and a broken storage door ring they have been fantastic.

Love this Kayak! I bought…

Love this Kayak! I bought her new from a local Kayak/Canoe store AND she was on sale! Amazon wanted $100 more and 1-2 month wait, and $300 more for the color I got! Deja Vu. … read full review

I absolutely LOVE this…

I absolutely LOVE this kayak. I purchased two of them. I previously paddled a Lifetime Tamarak and upgraded to this model recently and felt an immediate difference in speed a… read full review

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