Hobie Tandem Island Sail – Well Performing Sailing Kayak Or Failure?

The Hobie Tandem Island Sail is a unique kayak designed and manufactured by Hobie, a renowned kayak brand that offers you exemplary kayaks. The Tandem incorporates an exceptional design, new technology, and premium features that make it perfect for kayakers, sailing enthusiasts, and fishing fanatics.

The new design transforms this sailing kayak into a high performance, unique sailing machine that does not disappoint, regardless of any situation. You can exercise by pedaling or paddling, go fishing, or raise the sail and let the wind do all the work while you sit back and enjoy nature. Let’s have a look in this Hobie Tandem Island review at the features and performance of this incredible piece of work.

 

hobie tandem sailing kayakCheck out the Hobie Tandem Island Sail on Amazon!

[Check out our other Hobie articles: Hobie Adventure Island Sailing Kayak, Hobie Pro Angler 12 Kayak, Hobie Pro Angler 14 Kayak!]

 

How Does the Build of the Hobie Tandem Island Sail Hold?

As a part of the redesign, this kayak features a sturdy frame made with rotomolded polyethylene, which ensures a strong, fully adjustable, and customizable frame. It has a length of 18’6″ and a width of 30″, while the hull weighs 130 pounds with basics and 240 pounds when fully loaded with accessories. This kayak not exactly lightweight, so you might need a hand carrying it to the water and bringing it ashore.

Thanks to its quality constructed frame, the Hobie Tandem Island Sail will not only accommodate up to 600 pounds, but it will also ensure great stability while sailing in tough conditions, such as strong water currents or winds. The amas are large enough to offer great stability and can tuck in against the hull for easy and hassle-free docking, or they can be removed completely. The sails can be detached and stored in a carrying bag.

The cockpit can be easily transformed into a peddling platform when the weather conditions are not favorable for sailing.

 

hobie tandem pedal sail kayak

This kayak features 2-piece carbon-composite masts, whose main function is to reduce weight while maximizing performance. The sail’s larger masts and sail area help provide smoother and faster rides, making your trip more fun and hassle-free. The kayak also boasts of a Lowrance Ready system that features a built-in Transducer Mount that will also greatly enhance your fishing experience.

Check out the Hobie Tandem Island Sail on Amazon!

It comes with Vantage CT seats that feature a 3-level height adjustment and can be reclined to a preferred angle for all day comfort. The kayak seating features lumbar support that provides superior comfort and support regardless of your sailing angle. That means you can stay out all day and remain comfortable all throughout. These seats are also quick-drying and can be substituted as beach chairs.

 

Features of the Hobie Tandem Island

This so-called kayak comes with a ton of premium features that offer great convenience and versatility. You will absolutely have a whole lot of fun on your water adventure because of this sailing kayak. It features two MirageDrives, one in the front and one in the back, which allows for increased speed and ease of use.

The Mirage Drive technology gives you the option of pedaling the Hobie Tandem Island Sail kayak when the sail is up and furled, once again enhancing your kayaking experience.

sail kayak - yellow

That’s not the complete package; it also comes with two sets of paddles for quick steering situations, which can be stored on the akas when they’re not being used. You also have the option of using the rudder steering controls in the front and rear cockpits.

The Hobie Tandem Island Sail is an incredibly designed kayak that allows you to paddle, sail, fish, and pedal with great ease and with maximum speed. Its pedal power makes it much faster when compared to most tandem kayaks on the market. With its 3 superior forms of propulsion, you don’t have to panic when the wind stops blowing.

Check this kayak on Amazon!

Also offering exceptional performance are the roller-furling systems and vertical battens, which provide a boomless surface sail and better lift. The retractable centerboards are expertly designed to reduce lateral slip, also ensuring a smooth ride. These centerboards basically fold up against the side of the Hobie Tandem Island Sail to ensure easy docking and transport, as well as maneuverability.

 

Storage

 

overview of the Hobie Sail kayak

 

The Hobie Tandem Island comes with sufficient storage hatches, including four mesh-covered storage pockets, two molded-in rod holders, and 4 cup holders. There are bungee cords in the rear for extra storage that needs to be secured in place. One of the seats can also be removed, thus creating more room if you are going solo.

There are three twist and seal hatches, all three measuring 8″, as well as a very roomy bow hatch. You can purchase trampolines for the Hobie Tandem Island Sail for extra storage, and they can also be used to lay on, prevent water from spraying into the cockpits, or to invite kids or dogs along! They are made of a strong vinyl mesh that can be firmly tied to the kayak for reliable security.

Truly, this sailing kayak lives up to its name: a kayak that you can sail in & even use a trampoline!

Pros

  • Two MirageDrives and rudder controls in the front and rear for dual steering
  • Multiple storage options with the option to add more
  • It is sturdy, durable frame construction for long lasting use
  • Excellent performance, versatility, and stability, which is made apparent in this Hobie Tandem Island review
  • Hobie Tandem Island kayak is faster than most kayaks, easily maneuverable
  • Vantage CT seats with lumbar support that are easily adjustable
  • Optional 8-gallon live-bait tank for fishing and trampolines for extra storage space
  • Available in 3 different colors

Check out the Hobie Tandem Island Sail on Amazon!

Cons

 

  • It will be too expensive for many people
  • Too heavy for people to use if they are heading out alone

Check out the Hobie Tandem Island Sail on Amazon!

Hobie Tandem Island Review Conclusion

 

The Hobie Tandem Island Sail is, without a doubt, a great sailing machine that will transform the way you paddle, fish, or cruise on the water in luxury. It is sturdy, durable, comfortable, easy to use, and very versatile. Its premium features, whether they are already included or added later, can make this the greatest kayak you will ever buy.

You can fish with a live-bait tank, pedal and paddle when you want exercise, or sail when you want to just relax out on the water.

 

hobie tandem island kayak

If you are a beginner, there is nothing to worry about, as the Hobie Tandem Island Sail is perfectly designed for beginners as well as professionals. If you have never sailed before, this is the perfect way to practice the techniques that make sailing much easier and more enjoyable.

So if you are a fishing or water sports fanatic, you will certainly want to try this state-of-the art piece of work, expertly designed just for you.

Check it out on Amazon!

PS. Again, tons of information in this Hobie Tandem Island review. For that reason, we have included a video down below so you can see it in motion! Here is a neat video showing it off:

Hobie Adventure Island Sail – Yes! A Kayak That Maneuvers & Sails Well?!

The Hobie Adventure Island Sail is a neat, light multi-hull kayak with a gentle maneuvering capability. This sit-on-top vessel is made with efficiency in mind. The optional addition of a sail makes it is not only capable of sailing, but also fishing and tracking. The kayak introduces personalized handling factors that make it very easy it to operate.

The sailing system of the Hobie Adventure Island Kayak is something that most kayakers would enjoy using. To its credit, the kayak also comes equipped with a transducer for fishing. You can forget about buying transducer lines and going through the hassle of manual fixes. Truly, you will find the Hobie Adventure Island Kayak to be one of a kind “kayak”!

Check out the Hobie Adventure Island kayak on Amazon!

Let’s further explore these features in this Hobie Adventure Island review:

 

Hobie Adventure Island Sail

 

The Hobie Adventure Island Sail’s Frame

The Hobie Adventure Island kayak has a build that is is quite different, both in form and size. The kayak’s main hull measures 16’7” in length. The outrigger hulls (the Amas), are of relatively the same length as the main hull.

One good thing about the Hobie Adventure Island Kayak is the ease with which you can detach the amas, in case you don’t want the additional support, and for transporting the kayak.

 

The Hobie Adventure Island Sailing Kayak’s body is made of remolded polyethylene, which gives it a rigid build. The upper bow hull area has a strong pocket to hold the sail’s mast.

On the floor of the Hobie Adventure Island kayak, just below the mast hole, there is a brace that holds the base of the mast in place. This ensures that you can control the sails without the fear of the mast slanting out of place.

[Check out our other Hobie articles: Hobie Pro Angler 12, Hobie Pro Angler 14].

 

Hobie's sail kayak - adventure

The Hobie Adventure Island is only meant for one person. It provides an elevated seating position that helps to create a good opportunity to paddle. The paddles, based on Hobie’s patented MirageDrive 180 technology, allows for efficient movement in the water. At the same time, it is much easier to paddle than most bicycles, due to its power gearing system.

Check out the Hobie Adventure Island Kayak on Amazon!

Should you need to port the kayak while on shore or generally out of the water, the Hobie Adventure Island kayak has comfy handles for that purpose. There are two handles, one in the front and another at the furthest end of the of the upper stern area.

 

Features Of The Hobie Adventure Island Kayak

A good kayak has to offer comfort in addition to performance. The Mirage Hobie Adventure Island Sail designers seem to have this in mind all throughout.

To begin with, the Hobie Adventure Island is retrofitted with a comfortable Vantage C seat, which is easily adjustable. It is easy to disengage from the kayak to use somewhere else. Just below the seat, the kayak is built with a Venturi self-draining system that allows excess water in the cockpit to run off into the sea or the lake. Apart from providing you with comfort, this helps to keep the cockpit manageably clean.

 

The Hobie Adventure Island Sailing kayak also comes fixed with an easy-to-control rudder system. The rudder steering control is close to the kayaker’s seat, and located on the other side is a toggle used for lifting and lowering the rudder into the water.

With two rod holders just behind the kayaker’s seat, the Hobie Adventure Island Sail just became more fun to use. These molded-in holders can be used to hold your fishing rods and nets in place. You can also attach your fishing gaffs (a pole with a hook to help pull in big fish) here and continue with your sail as you await a catch.

Check out the Hobie Adventure Island Sailing Kayak on Amazon!

sailing kayak

With a retractable mast, you can be sure that transportation and storage of the kayak will not be a problem. Additionally, the furling–mast main sail system allows for maximum control of the Hobie Adventure Island Sail. All you need to know is when to fold and open the sail and you are good to go, as far as speed is concerned. Meanwhile, knowing how to turn the sail with and then against the wind will help you in navigation.

Check out the Hobie Adventure Island Sail on Amazon!

Is There Sufficient Storage in the Hobie Adventure Island Kayak?

The Hobie Adventure Island Sail has a nice amount of storage areas. First of all, it has the main 8” screw top hatches, one of them being conveniently situated close to the seat. Its position makes it ideal for items that need to be accessed quickly, like raincoats, angler knives, first aid kits, snacks, etc.

 

The Hobie Adventure Island Sail’s stern hatch is a little bit further from the seat, which might make it hard to access, especially during windy conditions or in unsettled waters. Nevertheless, if you feel safe enough, you can still get to it, even under such conditions.

This particular hatch contains a gear drum which is suitable for stuff that you don’t want to get wet, like items with batteries, cell phones, clothes, shoes, etc. Plastic bag them before you drop them in there, just to be sure.

Check out the Hobie Adventure Island Sail on Amazon!

Just before you get to the stern hatch, there is an open molded-in cargo area. This area can be used to stores things like bags and hold unused nets in place. To ensure that your items are intact, the cargo of the Hobie Adventure Island Sail is fitted with elastic nylon and fabric straps that are attached to either side of the kayak. On the front side of the kayaker’s seat are two cup holders, one on both sides.

 

hobie sailing kayak

In the cockpit area, there are two meshed stowage pockets on either side of the seat. These are used to hold items that a kayaker might need to use a lot during the sails. These pockets are spacious enough to hold your sunscreen, some binoculars, your cell phone, and other items.

An extra large tank hatch is situated at the extreme end of the Hobie Adventure Island Sail’s bow. This hatch is the best place to store those huge items that are not widely in use, like camping gear. This section’s lid is tightly held in place using the same straps as those used in the cargo area.

Check out the Hobie Adventure Island Kayak on Amazon!

Should you need more space in this beastly boat, you can add an Aka trampoline on either side of the hull to hold your extra items. This is also a good way to increase the Hobie Adventure Island Sail’s buoyancy, if the trampolines are balanced in weight on either side of the vessel.

Pros

  • Able to achieve high levels of speed due to its sail
  • The Hobie Adventure Island Kayak Ama, with elongated Akas, give it extra buoyancy
  • The Hobie Adventure Island kayak MirageDrive 180 system grants easy paddling, unlike the traditional paddling system
  • A relatively efficient rudder system which is easy to use
  • The Hobie Adventure Island Sail has multiple storage points, making the Hobie Adventure Island Sail suitable for long trips
  • The addition of the transducing lines
  • Comes in 3 colors

 

 

Cons

  • As compared to a number of other kayaks, the Vantage CT seat might be rigid for some
  • The Hobie Adventure Island Kayak price tag is a little bit on the higher end
  • Not suited for normal paddling, even when your legs get tired of pedaling, while the sail and hulls are attached
  • The Hobie Adventure Island Sail has a cockpit that might present quite a challenge to certain users

Check out the Hobie Adventure Island Sail on Amazon!

 

Hobie Adventure Island Review Conclusion

 

yellow sail kayak

Check out the Hobie Adventure Island Sailing Kayak on Amazon!

The Hobie Adventure Island Kayak is a serious and fun loving kayaker’s must-get item. It’s comfortable, spacious and has the speed to top other kayaks. However, it does not seem appropriate for just any kayaker, depending on what you want to use a kayak for.

Additionally, the lack of a second space to accommodate a child or pet makes it more of a ‘loner’s choice’. The price tag of the kayak is high, as already mentioned in this Hobie Adventure Island review, but it’s still not the most expensive kayak. And besides, it’s well worth the price, as you can use it for any purpose, whether it’s for fishing, exercise (both pedaling AND paddling), or to just sail along on a lazy peaceful day!

Check out the Hobie Adventure Island Kayak on Amazon!

Point 65 Apollo Kayak – The Best Performing Modular Option?

The Point 65 Apollo kayak is a modular sit-on-top vessel that promises increased stability and maneuverability in the water. This watercraft is a nice piece of work that is not only good-looking, in terms of aesthetics, but also has a functional design. It promises many improvements on traditional sit-on-top vessels.

The Point 65 N Apollo kayak has been around for a number of years, and in terms of its success on the market, it has had a mixed reception since then. This development is not unusual, as most people are accustomed to normal hard-shell or inflatable models. Nevertheless, it has garnered enough positive reception to enable it last for years.

When it comes to its availability, the Point 65 Apollo kayak can be found in many vendor stores online, as well as in physical stores. Due to its unfamiliar design, this vessel is not exactly the most obvious pick for most buyers. This is not to say that it is an inferior product, however. In fact, due to its unique features, the boat might just be the right pick for a particular niche of buyers.

Is this watercraft revolutionary enough to be a possible choice for you? Let us find out in the following Point 65 Apollo review, where we will look at its frame, storage options and core features, among other things.

Check out the Point 65 N Apollo Kayak on Amazon!

Point 65 Apollo kayak

 

Point 65 Apollo Kayak Frame

The frame of a boat is arguably the most important aspect of a watercraft. With the Point 65 Apollo kayak, you get a modular frame that is comprised of up to three connectable pieces. When fully assembled, the kayak has variable lengths, depending on how many parts of the 55-inch sections are attached. The length of the vessel can vary widely to become either a single person, a tandem, or even a triple person kayak.

When all parts are used, the Point 65 Apollo kayak is 12’9″ long, and has a width of 24.2″.

 

Despite its detachable modules, it is not really heavy, as it is made from a lightweight thermoplastic material. The Point 65 Apollo kayak can be described as tough and stable when fully assembled. It also does not have too much clutter, as its accessories are stripped to the bare minimum. The bow and stern of the kayak have a similar design, separately, and only become distinguishable when the vessel is assembled.

 

modular Apollo solo
Solo Apollo

 

Being an open sit-on-top watercraft, the Point 65 Apollo kayak’s seat and storage compartments are the only visible aberrations to the streamlined design of the watercraft. Otherwise, there is not much else in terms of accessories for this high-performance model.

The shape and design of the boat are some of its main strengths. The Point 65 Apollo kayak features a hull that is shallow-shaped at the bottom to increase its stability in the water. It weighs 67 pounds and can hold up to 485 pounds.

Check out the Point 65 N Apollo Kayak on Amazon!

 

Features of the Point 65 Apollo Kayak

The Point 65 N Apollo kayak features well-designed foam seats that are attached to the frame of the boat. These seats are quite comfortable, as they have a strong backrest that is also foldable. The vessel also comes with contoured foot braces for increased comfort while paddling.

The front section of the Point 65 Apollo kayak has a narrow construction for quick maneuverability. It also has the patented Snap-Tap mechanism for adjusting the modules. This makes the assembly and disassembly of the modules a simple and quick task to perform in a matter of seconds.

 

girls on an Apollo kayak

 

The Point 65 Apollo kayak has a strikingly uncommon design with a non-traditional bow, stern and midsection construction. The removable midsection, for instance, comes with an additional seat that enables the vessel to transform to a 2-person carrier. The midsections can also be added to make the vessel longer and longer as necessary.

This is without a doubt the best feature of the kayak, as the Point 65 Apollo kayak is able to do the work of multiple machines with just a few simple adjustments.

Overall, the construction can be described as minimal in terms of design, as there is not a lot of accessories included in the frame. The vessel is lightweight and quite durable. And currently, it is only available in red.

Check out the Point 65 N Apollo Kayak on Amazon!

 

Storage Space in the Point 65 Apollo Kayak

The Point 65 Apollo kayak comes with a tank well that allows the users to store their paraphernalia in a safe, secure and dry storage space. It does not come with multiple compartments, but there is always the option of including an extra module in case you want to add some extra space.

 

Being a versatile boat, it is safe to say that you can create as much space as you want by adding extra modules to the frame.

 

Point 65 Apollo kayak

 

For single person use, however, the main storage at the back is just enough for carrying sufficient gear. For a kayak that can handle a considerable loading capacity, the Point 65 Apollo kayak is a decent machine for carrying a good load of fish. You can load the modules into your car, so there’s no need to get a roof rack. You can also store the pieces in your house or apartment, instead of trying to think of how you will fit a full sized kayak in your home.

 

Pros

  • Lightweight, easy to carry around and store
  • Very versatile watercraft that can be transformed to suit many purposes
  • Thermoplastic material makes the Point 65 Apollo kayak strong and durable
  • Sufficiently comfortable and stable for safe use in the water
  • High performance from high maneuverability
  • Sufficient storage space for extra gear

 

Cons

  • Water tends to get inside, as the modular hull leaves some open spaces on the bottom
  • Tracking can be a challenge, especially for beginners
  • Carrying all the modules at once is not an easy task
  • The Point 65 N Apollo kayak does not come with a rudder or skeg

Check out the Point65 Apollo Kayak on Amazon!

 

Point 65 Apollo Review Conclusion

The Point 65 Apollo kayak is a revolutionary kayak model that promises a lot of things and manages to deliver on most of them. The vessel’s main feature is its removable modules, which are able to transform it into a multi-use watercraft. The basic construction of the boat makes it a great tool for versatile use.

 

The blow-molded thermoplastic material hull of the entire build makes the Point 65 Apollo kayak a maverick in the water. It is lightweight, easy to use and also manageable outside the water. It is suitable for general recreation, exercise, high-performance activities and even fishing.

Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition – Sturdy & Easy To Maneuver?

The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition is a hybrid watercraft that aims to bridge the gap between a folding frame boat and an inflatable vessel. This kayak is constructed with a unique and bold design that incorporates some aspects of each of the two base designs. Being a hybrid, it redefines various primary aspects of a water vessel that users are accustomed to.

For one, the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition can neither be fully folded nor solid all the way. This blending of two designs makes the boat a unique product that could potentially excite or turn off particular buyers. While there are a few obvious expectations in terms of performance, it is not easy to tell whether the construction makes it more durable or feeble. The design of the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition kayak has definitely brought about many advantages and benefits that users might find suitable.

The common core feature of all water vessels and any consumer product is the user experience. The setup process, the ease of use, and the maintenance of a product are some of the main determinants of the overall value of the item. With such a non-traditional design, the AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite kayak is quite an esoteric item for the wider kayaking populace. The watercraft promises a lot of things on paper, but what can it offer in the water? Let us find out more in this Advanced Frame Expedition Elite review.

Check out the AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite on Amazon!

 

Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition

 

Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition Frame

As mentioned before, the AdvancedElements Advanced Frame Expedition has a hybrid construction where the frame is aluminum and the bow and stern feature the lauded rib-frame technology construction. This build is great for improving the stability of the boat. When fully inflated, it has a maximum length of 13 feet.

The width of the kayak is 32″ and it has a total weight of 42 pounds. At this size, the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition can be described as a typical short kayak which is perfect for recreational use that can hold up to 450 pounds.

 

The rest of the inflatable part of the kayak is attached to the central aluminum frame. The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition has a number of features within it that give the user stability and comfort, like 9 chambers for extra buoyancy.

The hull design is great for improving stability in the water. The Drop-stitch construction of the floor is also quite essential when it comes to improving the paddling experience.

 

Yellow AdvancedElements Advanced Frame Expedition

 

From the outside, the AdvancedElements Advanced Frame Expedition kayak looks like any traditional hard-shell vessel when it is inflated. The only difference is that the less rigid shape becomes quite obvious when you take a closer look at the edges of the watercraft.

Check out the Advanced Frame Expedition Elite on Amazon!

Overall, it features a solid build where all the parts are firmly secured to the frame. The watercraft is lightweight, as most of the weight is only attributed to the minimal aluminum parts of the frame.

 

Features of the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition

The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition kayak packs a number of features that are either unique to it or common to other watercrafts as well.

The first dominant noticeable feature of the boat is the drop-stitch floor construction. This construction is emphasized greatly in the core of the vessel. It extends throughout the floor, where a plethora of threads are employed to make it as tough as possible. As a hybrid, the rigidity of the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition is essential to determine the user experience and this kind of build is welcome.

 

In addition, the seating area has an adjustable lumbar seat in the middle that allows the user to modify it in accordance with the space in the cockpit. You can go for longer periods without any back pain or soreness. There is a rudder mount included, allowing users to add navigation accessories. The handles on the Advanced Frame Expedition Elite kayak are made from rubber to increase comfort and for a better grip. A tracking fin also comes with the boat.

 

Expedition on the water

The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition is a single user sit-inside model that features a decent paddling speed when in full operational mode. It has a minimal design that does not leave out the important features, nor clutter the machine.

The exterior design of the boat is quite streamlined and symmetrical. There is an inclusion of the rather common welded seams and adjustable foot braces in this kayak as well. Overall, it packs just the right features for a day touring vessel.

Check out the AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak on Amazon!

 

Storage Within the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition

When it comes to storage, you get some sufficient storage options from the Advanced Frame Expedition Elite kayak.

First, there is a big compartment at the back, just behind the seat. The front also has sufficient room to keep a number of items. Depending on your height, the front storage might be affected a little, especially if you are tall.

The storage space in the stern of the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition is, however, quite sufficient to store your full day supplies in case you intend to take a long trip. There are bungee cords on the deck for securing extra gear. The storage options can be described as sufficient in general.

 

Pros

  • The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition is modern, stable construction for sufficient stability
  • Comfort levels are improved when compared to hard-shell vessels
  • The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition is very portable and does not require much storage space
  • Tracking capability is great for a hybrid
  • The design features multiple chambers which improve its performance with extra buoyancy.
  • The AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite kayak is simple to use and setup
  • Affordable, high quality option on the market

 

Cons

  • Hybrid construction can reduce the long-term durability of the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition kayak
  • The tracking is a little more difficult, as the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition does not come with a keel
  • It is slower compared to any hard-shell model on the market

 

AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Review Conclusion

 

hybrid AdvancedFrame

 

The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition kayak is a unique watercraft that incorporates multiple features and functionalities into a single frame. There are definitely many distinct characteristics that make the watercraft a probable choice for those looking for a divergent model. It seems to be designed for expedition touring and single users who do not mind experimenting with a bold and new design.

Check out the Advanced Frame Expedition Elite on Amazon!

The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Expedition is definitely also great for those who are looking for a portable boat that does not come with complicated setup procedures. There are sufficient accessories included in the kayak and for its size, paddling is quite a pleasant experience.

Not sure about this AE offering?  Check out our other Advanced Elements kayak articles:

Point 65 Martini Kayak – One Of The Company’s Best Modular Offerings?

The Point 65 Martini Kayak, also referred to as the Martini GTX, is a detachable, high precision kayak. It’s also high quality and looks great as well, which makes you want to ride in it even more. This sit-in modular kayak features a roomy cockpit and a great seating system, serving functions of both a solo and a tandem kayak.

Commendably, the Point 65 Martini Kayak allows for the use of all paddle sizes. You can comfortably use both single blade and double blade paddles. The kayak is made for normal use, but it has great tracking capabilities due to its relatively high speeds. In this Point 65 Martini review, we’ll examine all of these features, so you can decide if this is the right kayak for you.

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The Point 65 Martini Kayak Frame

Primarily a solo kayak, the Point 65 Martini Kayak can be separated and a midsection added to make it a tandem kayak. In solo form, the kayak measures 10’5″, with the aft section measuring 5’9″ and the stern section measuring 4’8″. At full tandem length, the vessel measures 13’8″ with the addition of a midsection that measures 5’4″.

The sections are form fitted to snap together, and it’s just as easy to unsnap them after use. Additionally this aids in transportation, because instead of carrying around a full length kayak, you and your friends/family can carry sections of the boat to the water.

The kayak’s mid width of 27.6″ is responsible for its bullet shape that aids in giving the Point 65 Martini Kayak a significant level of speed. Made of UV-resistant polyethylene, this boat is capable of withstanding sunny days for long periods. The vessel comes with a drop down rudder that can be attached to its back, and it can be controlled using pedals found in the front cockpit section.

The Point 65 Martini Kayak’s body also contains a paddle park compartment, and to create more fun, you can add a second midsection to allow sitting space for a small child or a pet.

Point 65 Martini Kayak

The sit-in cockpits are roomy and comfortable, measuring 33″ x 18″. Inside each cockpit is a comfortable air seat whose backrest can be regulated into position through pneumatic means. As a tandem, the Point 65 Martini Kayak is able to hold up to 530 lbs., which is sufficient enough for two average weight adults.

The sides of the kayak have molded handles which allows for easy transportation. Additionally, at 77 pounds, the Point 65 N Martini Kayak is light enough for heave-and-go purposes.

[Note: Check out our other Point 65 reviews here: Point 65 Whisky kayak, Point 65 N Mercury GTX kayak!]

Point 65 Martini Kayak Features

The Point 65 Martini Kayak is rigged for both speed and convenience. The speed is achieved through its smooth arrowhead shape. In solo form, the kayak is quite easy to maneuver and control. In tandem form, a level of difficulty is added where maneuvering is concerned. However, the kayak is much faster in tandem form, with two people paddling, of course.

The patented Snap-Tap feature, only available with Point 65 kayaks, makes the kayak not only convenient for both tandem and solo use, but also easy to transport. Furthermore, the boat allows for the use of small, medium or large sized paddles. The Point 65 Martini Kayak is light enough to be used by all kayakers, whether they’re new to kayaking, have some experience, or are very experienced.

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The recyclable PE frame of the Point 65 Martini Kayak makes it one of the few environmentally friendly kayaks you can buy. The fact that the material is UV-resistant, as mentioned earlier in this Point 65 Martini review, allows for long lasting use without fearing the cracking effect UV rays have on polyethylene materials. This model also comes fitted with a fish-o-meter, which helps the kayaker to measure their catch.

With a spacious cockpit and a comfortable air seat, you can rest and turn easily within the cockpit of the Point 65 Martini Kayak. The ability to adjust the seat ensures that if you get tired of sitting in one position, you can easily change your position to regain composure. The addition of a rudder and an accompanying rudder pedal lets you have more control while navigating the kayak, for a more enjoyable boating adventure.

How To Store Your Point 65 N Martini?

The Point 65 Martini Kayak has a decent storage capacity. It comes equipped with two hatches. The front hatch measures 7.9″ by 7.9″ and is situated almost towards the end of the bow, sufficient for putting items that one does not need right away. Here you can put in some dry suits, angling knives, and other items.

The aft hatch is a little bigger, measuring 17″ by 10″, making it suitable to store more items, including a mini cooler to store your caught fish in. It is also appropriately situated close to the back of the last cockpit. This makes it easy to access so you can grab your most needed items or gear.

Martini made into a tandemJust in front of the stern hatch, the Point 65 Martini Kayak has two cup holder slots. If you add a midsection, then two more cup holder slots are added to the kayak. With four cup holder slots, you will have plenty of room for your drinks or anything else you decide to use them for.

Pros

  • Easy to transport, due to its detachable and lightweight form
  • Capable of gaining substantial speed to get from Point A to Point B
  • The Point 65 Martini Kayak has spacious cockpits
  • Comfortable with easy maneuverability
  • The Point 65 Martini Kayak comes with a comfortable air seat and adjustable backrest
  • The presence of a rudder enhances navigation of the boat
  • Can use various sizes of paddles
  • Suitable for various experience levels and ages of kayakers
  • The front and back sections are water tight, enough to avoid water leakage
  • Sufficient storage space on the Point 65 Martini Kayak
  • The kayak allows for more than one midsection

Cons

  • The Point 65 Martini Kayak does not come with its own paddle
  • Not suitable for open water surfing
  • One may need to use a spray skirt to prevent water from splashing into the cockpit

Point 65 Martini Review Conclusion

Our Pick
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The Point 65 Martini Kayak is one extremely versatile kayak. For fun loving, recreational water lovers, this is a great choice for a kayak. It is also family friendly and can be used to train your children how to kayak like pros, while allowing them the space to enjoy themselves.

Although the Martini GTX is touted as a fishing kayak, it is not suitable for long haul fishing. However, if you want to do some nice recreational, afternoon fishing, this kayak will serve that purpose.

breaking down the Martini to go home

One thing we didn’t mention in this Point 65 Martini review is that this model comes in 9 different colors! Versatile, Sturdy, Spacious, AND you get your choice of a nice variety of colors. It is not easy to find a kayak that incorporates speed, fun, convenience, and ease. The Point 65 Martini Kayak fits all of the above.

Check out the Point 65 N Martini Kayak on Amazon!

That does not mean that it is perfect, but then again, which kayak does not have even one flaw?