Best Touring Kayaks of 2024
If you've started planning full day-long trips, weekend trips, or multi-day trips on flat, open water, you're in the market for a touring kayak. Also known as sea kayaks or ocean kayaks, a touring kayak is typically a sit-inside kayak that has a longer, narrow design that makes it track straight and fast.
Best Touring Kayak Brands
The difficulty in selecting a touring kayak in 2024 is narrowing it down to just one. You need to be careful when selecting a touring kayak that suits your size, planned distances, water types, and experience. You can easily find yourself looking at boats 12'-18', but the right touring boat for you will be different if you are looking for a multi-hour day trip versus a week-long sea kayaking expedition. Fortunately, there are some remarkable touring kayak brands. So, if you're not ready to compare model to model, you should get familiar with the best touring kayak brands like:
- Eddyline Kayaks
- Delta Kayaks
- Stellar Kayaks and Surfskis
- Current Designs
- Boreal
- ...and several more that you can find in the Touring Kayaks Gear Guide
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 Touring Kayaks of 2024
- Fathom by Eddyline Kayaks
- Delta 16 by Delta Kayaks
- Equinox by Eddyline Kayaks
- Edge 14.5 by Riot Kayaks
- Tsunami 145 by Wilderness Systems
- Castine 140 by Old Town Canoe and Kayak
- Stellar 18' Touring Kayak (S18) by Stellar Kayaks and Surfskis
- Baffin P3 by Boreal Design
- NC 17 Overnighter by NC Kayaks
- AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite by Advanced Elements
- Caribou by Current Designs Kayaks
- Solstice GTS by Current Designs Kayaks
1. Fathom
Designed for optimum efficiency and control, Eddyline's flagship Fathom touring kayak is great for long-distance adventures or playing in more adverse conditions. The Fathom sports a highly efficient hull design that is fast and nearly effortless to accelerate. Hard chines midship and a healthy degree of rocker makes turns a breeze. For medium- to large-frame paddler.
- More information about Fathom
- View all products from Eddyline Kayaks
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- 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
Fathom Reviews
Gorgeous, well-made boat! I…
After five years in a rec…
I purchased an Eddyline…
2. Delta 16
Excelling in rough seas, surf and wind, the elegant Delta 16 offers a balanced combination of maneuverability and tracking. This nimble sea kayak stays the course in challenging conditions, holds a lively pace with ease and has plenty of storage capacity for multi-day exploration.
You might also look at the Delta 14 or Delta 15s. The Delta 14 is a versatile touring kayak ideal for multi-day adventures and day trips alike, whereas the Delta 15s is an ideal choice for small- and medium-sized paddlers seeking a performance kayak with great cruising speed, exceptional tracking and superior edging
With substantial rocker and a moderately concave sidewall, the Delta 16 edges with satisfying bite, and turns on a dime. At 16 feet, its performance envelope is best explored by a medium-sized paddler. Features include a low-profile front day hatch, Press-Lock hatches, our Contour II Seat System, and optional rudder or spring-loaded skeg.
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Delta 16 Reviews
This is a combined review of…
I;ve owned a Delta 16 for 3…
Had the pleasure of paddling…
3. Equinox
The Equinox melds the comfort of recreational kayaks and the performance of a true sea kayak. The efficient hull and hard chines provide stability and glide, while tracking well and turning with ease. An ample cockpit is equipped with thigh braces for excellent control and hip pads and thigh pads for comfort. An adjustable Infinity Seat helps the Equinox fit a wide range of paddlers.
Another seaworthy kayak from Eddyline is the Sitka LT. At a 13'9" length, the Sitka ST (previously the "Samba") is a lightweight, high performing day touring kayak designed to fit the small- to medium-frame paddler.
- More information about Equinox
- View all products from Eddyline Kayaks
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- 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
Equinox Reviews
My first kayak was a…
I have been research kayaks…
This kayak is a breeze to…
4. Edge 14.5
With its slender bow and slim deck profile, the rudder-equipped Edge 14.5 is where elegance and efficiency cross paths it has just the right amount of chine and keel to make it track well, yet has a swift and versatile character. And to top it all off, it has most of the features serious sea kayaks call their own.
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- 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
- BOW & STERN SEALED BULKHEAD WITH 15” RUBBER HATCH
- Pilot rudder system
- ADVANCED CONTOUR FIT OUTFITTING
- SAFETY STRAPS
Edge 14.5 Reviews
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The Edge 14.5 is the perfect…
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5. Tsunami 145
Ample cockpit size and length without loss of performance make this the choice for larger paddlers desiring extra gear storage capacity.
- More information about Tsunami 145
- View all products from Wilderness Systems
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- 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
Tsunami 145 Reviews
This is an amazing kayak! It…
My favorite kayak out if all…
This 59 year old has had her…
6. Castine 140
Enjoy days on the water with this comfort-driven kayak. Straight-tracking touring length ideal for hours out on the water. Cloud-soft ACS2 seat delivers comfort and support on long excursions. Bow and stern hatches stash essentials for all-day outings. Removable slide-track storage allows room to mount accessories. Deck bungees hold even more items: dry bags, PFDs, and more. Foot and thigh braces for extra comfort and control. Rudder-ready design boosts turning and tracking management (rudder sold separately)
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Castine 140 Reviews
intermediate paddler 6 foot…
Mike Dottai I have a…
The Castine 140 has been a…
7. Stellar 18' Touring Kayak (S18)
Similar to the S16, the Stellar 18 (S18) Touring Kayak was designed for speed and stability on long distance tours. With additional length and reduced beam, this boat glides through the water. Moderate concavity along the keel of the bow and stern helps with tracking in rough conditions. For windy days and following seas, a drop-down rudder off the stern will help keep your course. Higher decks allow for a dryer paddle in rough conditions and a large stern and medium bow compartment provide ample storage for your longer tours.
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Stellar 18' Touring Kayak (S18) Reviews
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I have owned several boats…
One word, AMAZING! This boat…
8. Baffin P3
The Baffin series was built to endure the challenges of rough seas. Their distinctive hull design offers paddlers a lively yet stable experience, distinguishing it from other Greenland-style kayaks. The series is comprised of three rotomolded plastic models, catering to a diverse range of paddlers seeking immediate control and predictability. The Baffin is equipped with a full complement of deck rigging and a comfortably outfitted cockpit. Reflective deck lines are a standard safety feature on all our kayaks, visible in low light and night-time conditions.
- More information about Baffin P3
- View all products from Boreal Design
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Baffin P3 Reviews
This kayak is super fun. It…
The Baffin has a…
This boat is designed for…
9. NC 17 Overnighter
The NC17 series (pictured) or the NC19 series are extremely fast and efficient touring kayaks.
The NC17 has excellent Rough Water handling characteristics, great tracking and virtually no weathercocking. In Flat Water conditions, they are incredibly smooth and fast! It's designed for large bodies of water including Open Ocean. While still maneuverable enough for great fun on the lake. The NC17 series truly shines in Open Water.
The NC19 series is an incredibly fast touring kayak made for the paddler who wants a larger volume kayak or needs more capacity for extended trips.
- The NC17 series best fits paddlers measuring 5'0"- 6'2" weighing between 100-240 lbs. with up to a size 13½ shoe.
- The NC19 best fits paddlers measuring 5'6"- 6'8" weighing between 160-280 lbs. with up to a size 15½" shoe.
- More information about NC 17 Overnighter
- View all products from NC Kayaks
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
NC 17 Overnighter Reviews
My early experience shows…
I had a major issue with this…
Pretty boat. Well built for…
10. AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite
The AdvancedFrame® Expedition Elite is the natural evolution of inflatable kayaks. A hybrid of a folding frame kayak and an inflatable kayak, the Expedition incorporates our proven aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern, and Drop-stitch technology in the floor, to provide paddling performance that rivals that of a hard-shell kayak. Working together to deliver optimal paddling performance, the aluminum ribs form a shape that cuts through the water while the Drop-stitch floor provides unparalleled rigidity in an inflatable and creates hull chine. At 13’ long, with plenty of storage space, the Expedition Elite is the perfect kayak for any adventure
- More information about AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite
- View all products from Advanced Elements
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- carrying duffel
- Repair kit included.
- folding seat
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Reviews
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11. Caribou
The Caribou is a classic Greenland style design that has a cult-like following of paddlers from all over the world. The hard chines on this stunning kayak gives it amazing initial stability and edge holding capabilities. Couple that with its wave catching powers and you have a great kayak that's fast, nimble, and a pure joy to paddle. Skeg, back band, and thigh braces come standard.
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Caribou Reviews
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I have been kayaking on and…
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12. Solstice GTS
The Solstice GTS is for the paddler who wants a North American style kayak in a highly efficient package. This sleek hull design cuts through the water like a warm knife through butter. Plenty of foot room and the easy entry keyhole cockpit allows small to average sized paddlers to slip in comfortably while still staying true to it's sporty fit. The Solstice GTS has excellent acceleration, is highly efficient, and can hold plenty of gear in it's ample storage hatches. Great for water big and small, and trips long and short anywhere on the planet.
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- Composite Seam
- Current Designs Rudder
- Sea-lect Designs Foot Brace
- Composite Colors
Solstice GTS Reviews
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I purchased my first kayak in…
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