Are tandem kayaks a thing? Yes they are! There are loads of options to choose from if you want to make sure you have room for your wife, husband, kids, friend or paddle partner. Look for longer kayaks that come with, or have room for an extra seat and you’re good to go. 

Are tandem kayaks any good? Yes if you are looking for something that you can cover some kilometers in or take a more leisurely paddle. Because tandem kayaks are longer and therefore heavier, they track well but are not what you would buy if you were looking for a super playful kayak. 

Is it better to buy a single or tandem kayak? It depends on what you would like to use it for. If you want to always paddle with someone and then go for the tandem, it also means on longer paddles, you can take it in turns to paddle, while one takes a break. 

Can I use a tandem kayak on my own? Yes, of course. Some prefer to buy a tandem kayak if they enjoy going out on solo camping / paddling trips, or if they are heading out for the day and need to take a lot of kit, such as fishing gear. 

Do both people have to paddle in a tandem kayak? No, the person at the front can just be a passenger if desired. Both people can paddle at the same time, and if done simultaneously and in unison, the kayak can pick up some decent speed too! You can also take it in turns if out for a long time so the other one can rest. 

What are the cons of a tandem kayak? Generally using it with someone else where you need to be aware of what the other person is doing and syncing your paddling so you don’t end up going round in circles. Tandem kayaks are usually longer and heavier, so you won’t have the same freedom you would in a single kayak.