Best Touring Kayaks of 2023

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 2023 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:

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 2023

  1. Fathom by Eddyline Kayaks
  2. Delta 16 by Delta Kayaks
  3. Equinox by Eddyline Kayaks
  4. Edge 14.5 by Riot Kayaks
  5. Tsunami 145 by Wilderness Systems
  6. Castine 140 by Old Town Canoe and Kayak
  7. Stellar 18' Touring Kayak (S18) by Stellar Kayaks and Surfskis
  8. Baffin 3 by Boreal Design
  9. NC 17 Overnighter by NC Kayaks
  10. AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite by Advanced Elements
  11. Caribou by Current Designs Kayaks
  12. Solstice GTS by Current Designs Kayaks

1. Fathom

16' 6"
Length
22"
Width (in)
50
Weight (lb)
$2,999
MSRP

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.

  • 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

4.5 out of 5 stars
(25 Consumer Reviews)

Gorgeous, well-made boat! I…

Gorgeous, well-made boat! I owned one a couple of years ago and sadly had to give up paddling totally so I sold it. My only gripe was the seat; I found it terribly uncomforta… read full review

After five years in a rec…

After five years in a rec kayak, it was time to upgrade to a sporty kayak. It’s been a great transition and wondering why I did not do it sooner.

I purchased an Eddyline…

I purchased an Eddyline Fathom 7 years ago when I first started kayaking (primarily for exercise). The boat is sleek, stable, and easy to maneuver. I spend most of my time on… read full review

2. Delta 16

16'
Length
22"
Width (in)
48
Weight (lb)
$2,425
MSRP

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

4.7 out of 5 stars
(13 Consumer Reviews)

This is a combined review of…

This is a combined review of both the Delta 16 and GearLab Akiak Greenland paddle.I have had this setup for about four months now and probably have about 300NM on it now.… read full review

I;ve owned a Delta 16 for 3…

I;ve owned a Delta 16 for 3 seasons now i consider myself a intermediate paddler. i really like this Kayak I'm 5'7 and 130lb and fit comfortably. Initial stability is pretty … read full review

Had the pleasure of paddling…

Had the pleasure of paddling a Delta 16 at Northwest Outdoor Center in Seattle last weekend. Love demoing Delta boats as they are super lightweight and track well even with … read full review

3. Equinox

14'
Length
25"
Width (in)
45
Weight (lb)
$2,049
MSRP

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.

  • 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

4.8 out of 5 stars
(35 Consumer Reviews)

My first kayak was a…

My first kayak was a Hurricane Santee 116 with a wide beam, but I knew I’d eventually outgrow it and want a boat that I could learn more advanced kayaking techniques. I spent… read full review

I have been research kayaks…

I have been research kayaks for a long time now. It was finally time to pull the trigger. By a stroke of luck, my local paddle shop had a used Equin0x for sale. I couldn't be… read full review

This kayak is a breeze to…

This kayak is a breeze to use. I love how easy it is to paddle. The 45 lb weight is manageable as well for me. I couldn’t ask for a finer kayak. I will need to replace the ba… read full review

4. Edge 14.5

14' 6"
Length
21.6"
Width (in)
51–61
Weight (lb)
$1,099.95
Base MSRP

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

4.6 out of 5 stars
(38 Consumer Reviews)

I am in the market for the…

I am in the market for the above kayak and therefore cannot submit a review. As soon as I purchase one I will be HAPPY to do so. I look forward to reading the reviews that … read full review

The Edge 14.5 is the perfect…

The Edge 14.5 is the perfect kayak to suit my needs, large enough for the great lakes yet small enough for the smaller inland lakes. Sleek lines, with a stern hatch and bow h… read full review

Great ocean kayak for the…

Great ocean kayak for the bay

5. Tsunami 145

14' 6"
Length
24.5"
Width (in)
56
Weight (lb)
$1,619
MSRP

Ample cockpit size and length without loss of performance make this the choice for larger paddlers desiring extra gear storage capacity.

  • 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

4.5 out of 5 stars
(103 Consumer Reviews)

This is an amazing kayak! It…

This is an amazing kayak! It is very stable, comfortable, lots of leg room in the cockpit and great seat! The most incredible thing about this kayak is is it's speed!I just f… read full review

My favorite kayak out if all…

My favorite kayak out if all my boats! The 145 can go anywhere, long or short paddle! It tracks well and can survive any condition such as concrete landings, logs or oysters!… read full review

This 59 year old has had her…

This 59 year old has had her 2006 Tsunami for 15 years, paddling in lakes and in the mudflats, oyster beds and open water of the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of rural Florida… read full review

6. Castine 140

14'
Length
24.75"
Width (in)
59
Weight (lb)
$1,599.99
MSRP

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

4.8 out of 5 stars
(8 Consumer Reviews)

intermediate paddler 6 foot…

intermediate paddler 6 foot 180lbs, bulletproof tank of a kayak, excellent old town quality, very high initial stability, even in the most confused water this kayak refuses t… read full review

Mike Dottai I have a…

Mike Dottai I have a Castine 145 and love it. I moved the seat forward a few inches so I can recline the seat more. This was necessary for me because of a back injury. The b… read full review

The Castine 140 has been a…

The Castine 140 has been a good weekend tourer. It has a good gear capacity and is a stable boat that tracks well. I'm 6'3" tall and around 205 lbs and it fits me well for a … read full review

7. Stellar 18' Touring Kayak (S18)

18'
Length
21.5"
Width (in)
36–50
Weight (lb)
$2,675
Base MSRP

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

4.4 out of 5 stars
(5 Consumer Reviews)

I am managing a kayak club…

I am managing a kayak club with 30+ kayaks. The Stellar S18 kayak is the best kayak in our fleet of sea kayaks. Even paddlers who prefer British style kayaks with skegs have … read full review

I have owned several boats…

I have owned several boats but they have all been very stable. My favorite was and is my Tarpon 160 and I will always have it around. I started paddling with a group of pe… read full review

One word, AMAZING! This boat…

One word, AMAZING! This boat is stable and very fast. I find myself having to wait on the group. The boat is put together very well and I love how they pull in the sides wher… read full review

8. Baffin 3

17' 8"
Length
23.75"
Width (in)
47–69
Weight (lb)
$1,799.99
Base MSRP

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

4.9 out of 5 stars
(14 Consumer Reviews)

This kayak is super fun. It…

This kayak is super fun. It is responsive yet stable in the big water. I also find it very comfy to paddle all day with convenient storage options

The Baffin has a…

The Baffin has a multi-chined hull which gives it good secondary as well as primary stability. It also has enough rocker which almost enables it to turn on a dime. Yet, with … read full review

This boat is designed for…

This boat is designed for the larger paddler - 200-300 lbs, and you can tell. Plenty of room for a larger person but with the length and lines to be fast and fairly agile. Th… read full review

9. NC 17 Overnighter

17' 2"
Length
23"
Width (in)
43–52
Weight (lb)
$3,595
MSRP

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.
  • 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

4.6 out of 5 stars
(19 Consumer Reviews)

My early experience shows…

My early experience shows the NC 17 Overnighter is as advertised - a "fast and efficient touring kayak." I bought one used and have put it in four times in the first four day… read full review

I had a major issue with this…

I had a major issue with this Overnighter 17 from NC Kayaks. I compete in races with kayaks, and I was looking into faster kayaks to purchase to help get my time down. I got … read full review

Pretty boat. Well built for…

Pretty boat. Well built for the weight. Very stable I'm 6'4" 200 pounds and it is good in wind, and chop. My issue is the seat being a fixed shape and not adjustable and not … read full review

10. AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite

13'
Length
32"
Width (in)
42
Weight (lb)
$1,029.99
MSRP

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

  • 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

4.3 out of 5 stars
(29 Consumer Reviews)

Is the AFX Expedition Elite…

Is the AFX Expedition Elite a Best All-Round Kayak? Of course, there cannot be only one "best all-round" kayak because we all come in different sizes. Above every other consi… read full review

First timer, since I left…

First timer, since I left scouts. I bought this two years ago with the drop stitch floor. It has worked well and let me get comfortable and decide to move on. The setting of … read full review

I've owned the AE1009 kayak…

I've owned the AE1009 kayak for 2 years and have put in with it over a dozen times. This was my first kayak. It's stable and tracks pretty well despite it's 32" wide profile.… read full review

11. Caribou

17' 3"
Length
21.5"
Width (in)
48–52
Weight (lb)
$3,499
Base MSRP

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

4.6 out of 5 stars
(46 Consumer Reviews)

It is long, thin, fast and…

It is long, thin, fast and pretty. The speed is excellent, but this is not good around rocks. I like it for open water, and longer trips. Don't think of it for small river… read full review

I have been kayaking on and…

I have been kayaking on and off for a little while now. The sport had never really captured my full attention until I decided to pull the trigger and get myself a much more s… read full review

My wife and I both bought…

My wife and I both bought Caribou kayaks last summer. She wanted a faster boat that takes less effort than our old kayaks. These are easy to paddle, fast and lightweight. Th… read full review

12. Solstice GTS

17' 7"
Length
22"
Width (in)
48–52
Weight (lb)
$3,449
Base MSRP

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

4.6 out of 5 stars
(39 Consumer Reviews)

we have had our current…

we have had our current design kayaks for twenty years and still love them. They still look great, no fading of color and handle like a dream. We also have two neckties and p… read full review

I purchased my first kayak in…

I purchased my first kayak in 1977, a composite whitewater model, and since then, I have owned more than 15 boats of various makes and materials. The one I plan to stay with … read full review

I'm really happy with it; it…

I'm really happy with it; it has enough room to carry everything I need for a self supported long weekend trip and is fast through the water and stable in waves. Great hatch … read full review

Related Articles

Portable kayak stands are amazing for on-the-go work stands or for washing and rigging your boat when…

Here are the 10 best Sit on Top Kayaks for 2023 as paddled, tested, and reviewed by the largest…

There are more than a few people interested in solo canoes these days. And with interest, comes options.…