Best Touring Kayaks of 2021
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 2021 is narrowing it down to just one. You need to be careful in 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
- North Shore Sea Kayaks
- Valley Sea Kayaks
- Stellar Kayaks and Surfskis
- Current Designs
- Boreal
- Lincoln Canoe and Kayak
- ...and several more that you can find in the Touring Kayaks Gear Guide
The most important piece of gear every time you go paddling is a life jacket! Don't become a statistic!
Your Review Matters
This list was based primarily on reviews from paddlers just like you. If you have paddled a touring kayak, be sure to submit a review to inform others and have a voice in how this list is made.
Best Touring Kayaks of 2021
- Fathom by Eddyline Kayaks
- Delta 16 by Delta Kayaks
- Equinox by Eddyline Kayaks
- Atlantic by North Shore Sea Kayaks
- Nordkapp Forti by Valley Sea Kayaks
- Stellar 18' Touring Kayak (S18) by Stellar Kayaks and Surfskis
- Solstice GTS by Current Designs Kayaks
- Baffin 3 by Boreal Design
- NC 17 Overnighter by NC Kayaks
- Quoddy Light by Lincoln Canoe and Kayak
- Caribou by Current Designs Kayaks
- Explorer by Nigel Dennis Kayaks, Ltd.
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.
- More information about Delta 16
- View all products from Delta Kayaks
- 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
I;ve owned a Delta 16 for 3…
Had the pleasure of paddling…
I just purchased a new Delta…
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. Atlantic
Relaxed in any environment is a phrase that sums up the Atlantic. Although only slightly wider than the Shore Line, the Atlantic provides a level of initial-stability normally only found in much wider kayaks. This extra stability provides extra reassurance to the less experienced and extends the comfort zone of anyone intent on pushing their paddling boundaries.
The beauty of using the hull profile that gives the Atlantic's level of stability whilst retaining a beam of only 22 inch (56 cm) is that the Atlantic retains a reassuring level of speed and avoids the bulk of clumsiness of wider kayaks. All-rounder can sometimes carry negative connotations but once in a while an all rounder does come along that is genuinely good in all departments, the Atlantic is such a case.
The Atlantic, one sea kayak that really can do it all, an ideal first composite kayak.
- More information about Atlantic
- View all products from North Shore Sea 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
Atlantic Reviews
I paddled a number of long…
I've been renting for the…
I have a composite Northshore…
5. Nordkapp Forti
The Førti (Norwegian for forty) is the latest version of undoubtedly the most influential sea kayak ever produced, the Nordkapp! The original being designed specifically for the 1975 expedition of the Norwegian coast, to the northern most point in Scandinavia, This expedition marked the beginning of modern sea kayak expeditioning and marked a watershed in equipment designed for the sport. Paddle this kayak and you paddle a kayak that can trace it’s DNA back to that very first sea kayak expedition!
- More information about Nordkapp Forti
- View all products from Valley Sea 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
Nordkapp Forti Reviews
This is the KAYAK. There no…
I love this boat! It is…
A Classic
6. 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.
- More information about Stellar 18' Touring Kayak (S18)
- View all products from Stellar Kayaks and Surfskis
- 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
I am managing a kayak club…
I have owned several boats…
One word, AMAZING! This boat…
7. 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
I purchased my first kayak in…
I'm really happy with it; it…
I have had this kayak for…
8. Baffin 3

The Baffin is built for the rigors of rough seas. Its unique hull design provides paddlers with a lively yet stable boat compared to other Greenland style kayaks. The three models in the series are well suited for a wide range of paddlers who demand immediate control and predictability. The generous sized opening of the hatch allows paddlers to load up adequate amounts of gear for up to two weeks, while the day hatch keeps your essentials handy while on the water. The Baffin comes with a full complement of deck rigging and a comfortably outed cockpit.
- 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 3 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. Quoddy Light
This beautiful new addition to the Lincoln line-up is perfect for the everyday paddler who prefers a kayak that is a bit smaller, fits a small paddler nicely and is easy to handle. This boat is as bold as its namesake is a lighthouse that sits on the edge of Maine, facing out to Canada. It's their smallest day touring kayak which allows for playful turns and stealthy maneuvers all the while offering superior stability. All this means that the Quoddy is a great boat for beginners to experts. It's the perfect companion for day paddles in fair weather.
- More information about Quoddy Light
- View all products from Lincoln Canoe and Kayak
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- Rubber Hatches
- Deck Bungees
- Keyhole Cockpit
- Fiberglass Bucket Seat
- Reflective Deck Line
- Recessed Deck Fittings
- Optional Add-Ons: Full keel strip, Retractable skeg, Skid plates
Quoddy Light Reviews
Four years ago I…
Purchased from the…
Lincoln Quoddy Light Kayak -- Why I love It
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
It is long, thin, fast and…
I have been kayaking on and…
My wife and I both bought…
12. Explorer

Designed for rough water and covering distances, the Explorer is NDK's main expedition kayak and suits the medium sized paddler. Faster than the Romany family, maneuverable and direction stable. It has a large carrying capacity and has been used on a one-month expedition to Antarctica carrying all supplies with no support. The Explorer is fitted with the High performance glass seat, unless otherwise requested. The kayak has a low rear deck for easy rolling, a keyhole cockpit that gives excellent grip, control and allows quick exit if need be. The sloping bulkhead behind the seat allows the kayak to be emptied by lifting only the bow, no x-rescue is necessary.
- Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- Front Bulkhead: Standard
- Footrests: Yakima installed
- Keel Strip: None
- Skeg: Kari slider with new composite box
Explorer Reviews
I'm late to the party…
Outstanding for extended…
The Romany Explorer still…
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