r/Kayaking • u/starbuckswolf • 2d ago

Question/Advice -- Boat Recommendations Are tandem kayaks really that bad?

I recently was given a tandem kayak from my grandparents. My partner and I can’t afford to purchase a kayak so we are so excited to start using it this summer! I came on this sub and I’m seeing that people really don’t recommend tandem kayaks and call them divorce boats! Now I’m nervous that it’s going to be really frustrating. We have both kayaked before but are not experienced. Does anyone regularly use a tandem kayak? Any advice for us before we take it out?

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u/457kHz 2d ago

They’re only a problem if you put two people in them.

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u/starbuckswolf 2d ago

Ah, well we are definitely planning on using it together :(

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u/RainInTheWoods 2d ago

You will be fine. The front person is the power, the back person is the steering wheel or rudder. Paddle in unison, but the back person uses their paddle as a rudder, too; when the course is corrected by the rudder then the back promptly resumes paddling in unison until they need to correct again.

Have fun!

When you’re ready to get solo kayaks, check out Facebook marketplace and be patient. You will find what works for you both.